GUEST EDITORIAL: The War Over Growth and Infrastructure in Lexington County

Lexington, SC 06/05/2024

The ongoing conflict between the Town of Lexington and Lexington County is centered on a critical question: Who should bear the financial burden of growth and infrastructure? Should current residents or builder-developer groups, who are reaping the benefits of the county’s expansion, shoulder the costs? This debate sheds light on the urgent need for a diverse professional mixture on government bodies to ensure councils serve the interests of the public.

Builder Industry Misinformation

As we near voting season with the Republican primary set for June 11 and the Lexington municipal elections slated for 2025, it is crucial for residents to remain informed and make educated choices. Elected officials who favor builders have traditionally dominated policy, compelling in 2020 a voter turnover of County Council. These changes were aimed at better managing growth. However, the builder industry is striving to revert County Council to developer-friendly policies.

Misinformation and false accusations have been levied against conservative incumbents running for reelection on June 11. A group named “Protect Lexington’s Future,” affiliated with a Building Industry Association executive, has targeted these incumbents, accusing them of failing to plan for infrastructure. These accusations are, however, part of a misleading campaign geared towards unseating these hardworking officials.

Actual Steps Taken by the Incumbents

In contrast to these allegations, the conservative incumbents have made significant strides in managing growth. They have diligently re-evaluated permitting processes, decreased housing density in new neighborhoods, and introduced concurrency requirements to ensure infrastructure keeps pace with county expansion. These efforts have received pushback from the industry, revealing a profit agenda that clashes with responsible governance.

Fourthcoming Elections

As the elections near, residents must dismiss these false narratives and offer their support to leaders dedicated to responsible governance. The crux of the matter is the building association’s insatiable greed which prioritizes profits over the wellbeing of the community.

Key Questions for the Community:

1. Building Industry Association (BIA) Aggressiveness: Why has the BIA aggressively pursued local politicians since 2021, aiming to install preferred candidates?
2. Illegal Annexation Attempt: Why did the former Lexington Mayor MacDougall and the Town Council rush to annex 93 acres at Lake Murray, bypassing protections instituted by the County Council?
3. Beneficiaries: How did the failed annexation plan affect the BIA, and who stands to benefit from these decisions?
4. Community Implications: How could high-density developments and increased traffic congestion detract from the quality of life for current residents?
5. Connections and Accountability: What connections exist between the local politicians and the BIA, and how do these relationships influence decision-making?

A Call for Informed Decisions

By examining these questions, the community can develop a deeper understanding of recent actions and advocate for transparency, accountability, and sustainable growth in Lexington County. As we approach the election season, voters must stay informed and critically appraise candidates’ stances on growth and infrastructure issues to ensure a future built on the foundations of truth, accountability, and sustainability. Don’t forget to vote on June 11!

Please note: This opinion piece is provided by HERE News and does not necessarily reflect the views of other parties.