By Dick Stewart
I have been asked by several friends and business associates why the City of Beaufort staffing and budget is so much higher than other local governments in the area. I was surprised by the numbers. Seems reasonable to ask a few questions.
People asked me if I think the government in Beaufort is delivering better services than other local governments. I suggested they ask the City directly. To my surprise, they didn’t want to ask because they were worried that they would be labeled troublemakers and experience some form of retribution. I don’t believe that is a problem.
In the 28 years since I returned to Beaufort, every single City Council member I have met has had the best interests of the citizens of Beaufort at heart. I was asked if I could explain the comparisons. I’m trying to understand why Beaufort has nearly three times as employees per thousand residents as Bluffton and nearly four times as many employees per thousand residents as Port Royal.
There are certainly differences. As an example, the City of Beaufort staffing may include fire department personnel that work in Port Royal. County staffing may include the Sheriff’s staff that provide police services on Hilton Head. Hilton Head doesn’t have a municipal police force.
Perhaps services are better in the City and both Port Royal and Beaufort County should double their staffing levels to provide the same quality of services. I just don’t know but the comparisons do raise real questions.
Right now, campaigns are beginning for two new City Council members. This is a perfect opportunity to understand the comparisons and chart a path to improvement. After all, better and more efficient government is what voters want and expect. I’m happy to help. We are all in this together. I’d like to hear what you think at stewartthoughts@gmail.com
Dick Stewart has been honored with a “Lifetime Achievement” award from the Beaufort Regional Chamber of Commerce. He holds an honorary doctorate degree in Community Service from the University of South Carolina. Stewart serves on multiple nonprofit boards in the area.