Standing Committee Appointments, Council Rules, and Greenville County Citizens Academy Applications
Councilman Blount’s Newsletter 1-26-25
Welcome to this week’s newsletter! This edition will focus on critical updates regarding committee appointments and the essential work being done to ensure Greenville County Council is set up for success in the most transparent and accountable way possible over the next two years.
One of our top priorities is fostering trust and engagement with our community while laying the groundwork for effective and fair governance. From appointing council members to key committees to updating our governing rules, these decisions will impact how we operate and serve Greenville County.
You’ll find important updates on the committee appointments and their roles in addressing vital issues such as planning and development, public safety, infrastructure, and financial oversight. Additionally, I am excited to share the formation of a new Ad Hoc Audit Committee, a critical step in addressing the growing demand for accountability and transparency in how taxpayer dollars are managed.
Let’s dive into the details!
Council to Update Rules in Upcoming Meetings
In the coming weeks, County Council will be voting on our governing rules, which set the framework for how we operate as a body, conduct meetings, and serve our community. These rules are vital to ensuring that council functions effectively, fairly, and transparently.
As we prepare for these discussions, my priority is to ensure that any changes to the rules enhance transparency and accountability. Once council adopts the final version, I will highlight all updates in an upcoming newsletter to keep you informed.
In the meantime, I’d love to hear from you. What changes or improvements would you like to see in how council operates? Your feedback is essential in helping shape a government that works for everyone. Feel free to reach out and share your thoughts!
Here are Council’s current rules: County Council Rules
Appointing Council Members to Standing Committees
In the coming weeks, I will appoint members of the County Council to our standing committees as well as the Chairs of those committees. These committees play a critical role in addressing key issues and ensuring that council decisions are informed and effective. Below is a summary of the six standing committees and their areas of responsibility:
Finance
Oversees taxation, appropriations, expenditures, budgeting, economic development, internal auditing, and personnel policies. This committee ensures the responsible management of county funds and financial practices.
Planning and Development
Focuses on zoning, land development, transportation planning, building codes, and the implementation of the Comprehensive Plan. It guides the growth and development of Greenville County.
Public Safety
Addresses matters related to health, social services, law enforcement, fire protection, courts, corrections, and other areas impacting public safety and well-being.
Roads, Infrastructure, and Public Works
Responsible for managing roads, bridges, solid waste, stormwater, floodplains, animal care, property maintenance, recreation, and public utilities. It also oversees the infrastructure supporting our community.
Communications and Governmental Affairs
Oversees county communication strategies, intergovernmental relations, and community outreach efforts, ensuring the county remains engaged and accessible to the public.
Committee of the Whole
While there are not appointments since it is composed of all council members, this committee addresses broader issues such as council rules, eminent domain, and policies for boards and commissions.
The work of these committees is essential to our progress as a county, and I look forward to collaborating with my colleagues to ensure they are well-equipped to address the needs of our community.
Once appointments are finalized for each committee, I will share more details about who will serve on each committee and the priorities they aim to address. You will see some of those announcements in the next section.
Planning and Development / Roads, Infrastructure and Public Works Committee Appointments
Below are the appointments to these two committees. We have a yearly calendar that shows these committees are scheduled to get to much needed work in the coming weeks, so as I continue discussions with my colleagues on the other committee appointments, I wanted to get these up and running to ensure that the work of the people continues in a properly, orderly, and timely manner.
Note: The chairman of each committee will select who they want for Vice Chairman and I will provide that information as I receive it.
Planning And Development (P&D)
Rick Bradley - Chair
Benton Blount
Alan Mitchell
Ennis Fant
Curt McGahhey
Councilman Rick Bradley has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to advocating for District 26, listening to the concerns of residents, and championing smart, community-focused growth. His nonstop efforts to engage with constituents, address their needs, and ensure that their voices are heard have set a high standard for public service.
But Councilman Bradley’s leadership extends far beyond his district. His vision and understanding of the complex challenges and opportunities facing Greenville County make him the ideal person to chair this committee. As chair, he will ensure that planning and development decisions are balanced and reflective of the needs of everyone in our county.
Under his leadership, the Planning and Development Committee will focus on critical issues such as zoning, land development, transportation planning, and the implementation of our Comprehensive Plan, all while maintaining a commitment to transparency and public engagement.
Councilman Bradley’s tireless dedication to his constituents and his deep understanding of the importance of thoughtful development will undoubtedly benefit every resident of Greenville County. I look forward to seeing the positive impact his leadership will have as we continue to grow responsibly and sustainably.
Roads, Infrastructure, and Public Works
Curt McGahhey - Chair
Liz Seman
Frank Farmer
Alan Mitchell
Rick Bradley
Councilman Curt McGahhey will chair the Roads, Infrastructure, and Public Works Committee, a role perfectly suited to his extensive leadership experience and dedication to public service.
Curt’s dedicated years of military service, including his time as a Marine Corps Officer and Naval Aviator, have instilled in him the ability to lead with precision, focus, and determination. His experience managing high-stakes operations, combined with his background in both public and private leadership roles, makes him uniquely qualified to take on this position.
While newly elected, Curt’s ability to step into leadership roles is evident, and I believe citizens will see an immediate difference under his guidance. His passion for improving quality of life and increasing safety across Greenville County ensures that his work as chair will represent not just District 21, but every resident of our community.
Curt’s proven commitment to service and his forward-thinking approach make him the perfect choice to lead this vital committee. I look forward to seeing the impact of his leadership as we address the critical infrastructure needs of Greenville County.
Announcing the Formation of the New Ad Hoc Audit Committee
As part of this year’s committee appointments, I am pleased to announce the formation of a new Audit Committee, a key step in addressing the calls from Greenville County citizens for greater transparency and accountability in how your hard-earned tax dollars are spent.
Audit Committee
Kelly Long - Chair
Steve Shaw
Frank Farmer
Curt McGahhey
Garey Collins
I have great confidence in Kelly Long and her ability to chair this important committee. With her extensive background in accounting, she is uniquely equipped to ensure the proper review and oversight of county finances. Her expertise and commitment to fiscal responsibility will help build public confidence in how Greenville County manages taxpayer dollars.
While most members of this committee are newly elected, I intentionally included Councilman Steve Shaw to serve as a guiding presence. His unrelenting resolve to ensure transparency throughout his tenure and his experience in council operations will be invaluable to this committee’s success.
This committee has been established with a clear mission: to independently review county finances, operations, and processes to ensure we meet and exceed the expectations of Greenville County residents. The committee will focus on:
Providing Transparency: Offering clear, accessible insights into how county funds are allocated and spent.
Ensuring Accountability: Auditing programs and departments to confirm resources are used responsibly and effectively.
Improving Efficiency: Identifying and addressing areas of waste to ensure taxpayer dollars are put to their best use.
Safeguarding Taxpayer Funds: Proactively mitigating risks to protect county assets and ensure compliance with laws and regulations.
The creation of this committee reflects our dedication to responding to the voices of the people in Greenville County. By placing newly elected members alongside a proven transparency and accountability advocate like Steve Shaw and under the capable leadership of Kelly Long, we are ensuring a balance of fresh ideas and trusted experience.
I am confident that this committee will make meaningful strides in strengthening public trust and ensuring accountability in our government. As the committee begins its work, I will keep you updated on its progress, findings, and any recommendations made to the full council.
Greenville County Citizens Academy: Applications Open for 2025 Session
The Greenville County Citizens Academy is now accepting applications for its 2025 session. This unique program offers residents an in-depth understanding of how Greenville County operates, providing opportunities to engage with elected officials and county staff while gaining valuable insights into local governance.
Be sure to submit your completed application by Friday, February 14th!
The Citizens Academy, established by the Greenville County Council, is comprised of 24 members, with each council member nominating two residents from their district. To be eligible, you must be a registered voter in Greenville County and cannot be an elected official or an employee of Greenville County or any municipality.
The Academy runs from March to November, with sessions held once a month (except for July), from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Participants will visit various county facilities and learn about essential operations, including the Sheriff’s Office Training Center, Emergency Operations Center, and more.
This program is an incredible opportunity to deepen your understanding of local government and become a resource for your community. I encourage all interested residents to apply.
Regardless of district, email bblount@greenvillecounty.org and I will be happy send you an application!
There are no council meetings scheduled for the upcoming week but the next scheduled meeting is February 4th! I hope you all have a blessed, safe, and prosperous week in Greenville County!
Chairman Blount, we are curious. We assume each member of Council is sworn in at the beginning of each term, is that correct? If so, could you supply the wording of or a link to the wording of the oath? Thanks!
I am interested in the Public Safety Committee.