TIF override vote was a mistake

During the State Legislature's past session, I was confronted with a bill in which counties could change the method in establishing Tax Increment Finance districts. As a former City Council member in Aiken for over 25 years, I saw firsthand the benefit of a TIF district in our city. Typically, it was used to improve public property for the public good. However, the bill before the state legislature was more complicated, as I would soon discover, than simply permitting the counties the ability to draw up TIFs. It, in fact, amended in size and scope the way in which a county could now draw up a TIF District.

The governor vetoed this measure and I, in error, voted to override his veto. At the time, I did this for two reasons. First, at the behest of fellow legislators who represent large rural areas with high unemployment.

Second, the mistaken belief that this was similar in scope to the law that permits cities to establish TIFs. As I previously mentioned, the city language does not allow public financing for private development, but this bill did.

In the chaos of the final day of session and the massive volume legislators were asked to consider, I made a mistake and voted to override what on the surface appeared to be a legitimate measure. Yet, buried deep in the bill was a significant provision that I oppose.

So that the County Council is clear on where I stand, I write this open letter to be on record that I oppose that provision. Additionally, I will assure you when the State Legislature reconvenes in January, a strong effort will be made to correct this unfair giveaway.

Let me be clear: Giving money to a private entity in this manner is wrong and I beseech you not to compound the Legislature's error by using the powers granted to you by the State to approve the request.

Rep. Skipper Perry
Aiken