This month, we sat down with Dorchester County Council Chairman Bill Hearn to learn the challenges Dorchester County is facing and receive updates on their workforce and economic development initiatives.

Here are some highlights from his presentation:

• Finances for Dorchester County are looking GOOD!
• Oakbrook tax increment is funding athletic complex, streetscaping, replacement of Ladson Road Fire & EMS station and completion of Oakbrook Ashley River Preserve project.
• North Charleston Library-Media Center will provide necessary library services to expanding community.
• Emergency Operations Center with 16 dispatch consoles, bunk rooms for staff, ballistic threat resistant and ability to withstand 172mph winds, expected completion January 2022.
• Walmart Distribution Center will create 1,000 jobs and supply 850 Walmart & Sam’s Club stores, expected completion January 2022.
• Chairman Hearn’s position on housing attainability suggests it requires reviewing infrastructure costs, rezoning and asking the hard questions.
• The Chairman’s vision for the next 10-15 years is westward expansion and exploring missed business opportunities.

Our Senior Vice President of Government Relations, Scott Barhight, said it best, “Hats off to you, Chairman Hearn, for your efforts and collaboration with other counties.”

A look back on neighborhood ribbon-cuttings:

1. Trident Tech – Dorchester County Campus – May 28
   • This is the first full-service college in Dorchester County; students will be able to earn their associate degree without ever leaving the campus.
2. Davis-Bailey Park – June 4-5
   • This 15- acre, multi-use park facility includes: two baseball fields, two basketball courts, playground, splash pad, outdoor fitness center, walking trails and much more for community entertainment.
3. Ashley River Park – Completion August 2021
   • Dorchester county is looking forward to the grand opening of Ashley River Park this fall! This 85-acre recreational area has walking trails, dog park, playground, fishing, outdoor event spaces and a variety of shelters.