MONCKS CORNER, S.C. — Berkeley County residents will not see a property tax increase next fiscal year after county council approved a $377.4 million budget that invests in public safety, infrastructure and employee pay while maintaining what county leaders say is the lowest county millage rate in South Carolina.
The spending plan, approved during Council’s June 22 meeting, takes effect July 1. It includes a $165.9 million General Fund budget and keeps the county’s millage rate unchanged at 41 mills.
County officials said the budget was designed to address the demands of one of South Carolina’s fastest-growing counties while avoiding additional tax burdens on property owners.
Public safety receives largest staffing boost
A significant portion of the budget focuses on expanding public safety services to keep pace with population growth.
The spending plan funds:
- 24 new Berkeley County EMS positions
- 11 new positions within the Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office and Detention Center
- Four new 911 Emergency Communications Specialists
- Two new positions in the Ninth Circuit Solicitor’s Office
- An additional $221,000 for the Public Defender’s Office
The budget also provides funding for Berkeley County EMS to transition to a 24/72-hour shift schedule, a staffing model increasingly being adopted by emergency medical agencies across South Carolina and the Lowcountry. County officials say the schedule is intended to reduce employee fatigue, improve work-life balance and strengthen recruitment and retention of paramedics and EMTs.
County employees to receive 5% pay increase
All Berkeley County employees will receive a combined 5% cost-of-living and merit increase under the new budget.
County leaders said the raises are intended to help retain employees and remain competitive in recruiting workers amid continued regional growth.
Millions allocated for roads, EMS stations and parks
The budget also includes several capital projects aimed at improving public services and quality of life.
Among the largest investments are:
- $2.7 million to complete funding for three new EMS stations
- $4.7 million for the design and permitting of widening Nexton Parkway
- $3.5 million for Greenbelt Program greenspace improvements
- $527,367 for Parks and Recreation improvements
- $250,000 for a new multipurpose room at the Sangaree Library
- $1.35 million toward construction of a new Sangaree Special Tax District office, including $850,000 from Berkeley County and $500,000 from the Sangaree Special Tax District
Water and sanitation budget approved
Council also approved a separate $118.3 million Berkeley County Water and Sanitation budget, which funds the county’s water, sewer and solid waste operations.
County supervisor highlights balanced approach
Berkeley County Supervisor Johnny Cribb said the spending plan balances continued investment with fiscal responsibility.
“Our goal has always been to provide exceptional services while being good stewards of taxpayer dollars,” Cribb said.
“This budget allows us to continue investing in public safety, critical services, and the needs of our growing County without raising taxes. Through thoughtful planning, we’ve delivered a balanced budget that keeps Berkeley County’s millage rate the lowest in South Carolina. We’re proud of what this budget accomplishes and what it allows us to continue doing in our communities going forward,” he continued.
The fiscal year 2026-27 budget goes into effect on July 1.
