Voters in Greenville County made their voices heard during the recent primary elections, leading to the removal of three council members who had supported a property tax hike last year. This significant change in the 12-member council is likely to create a more divided body, with three additional races moving to runoff elections scheduled for June 25.
In District 27, Garey Collins achieved a remarkable victory against incumbent Butch Kirven, earning 70 percent of the votes. District 21 saw Curt McGahhey defeat Councilman Chris Harrison with 3,003 votes to 2,370. In District 18, Kelly Long won against Councilman Mike Barnes, receiving 3,216 votes compared to 2,196.
This election marks the third consecutive cycle in which multiple Greenville County Council members have lost their seats, reflecting a trend that has seen significant turnover since 2022.
The recent losses can be attributed largely to the county’s first property tax increase in 30 years, which was approved by a close 8-4 vote last year. This change translates to an additional $58 annually for homeowners with properties valued at $200,000, prompting a wave of protests from residents during council votes. Following the tax hike’s approval, the Greenville County GOP censured the Republican members who voted in favor of it, sending out materials to condemn those up for reelection.
Supporters of the tax increase claim it was necessary to maintain important services and manage the county’s budget in light of inflation. However, opponents used the issue as a rallying point, arguing that officials should have sought other ways to manage funds without imposing a tax increase.
Councilman-elects Long and McGahhey expressed their aim to repeal the tax increase quickly, while McGahhey emphasized the need to understand the county’s financial operations before making firm commitments.
Since 2022, the county council had settled into a semblance of stability, but heated debates and contentious decisions often led to close votes. This dynamic has now changed, particularly with Tzouvelekas, a leading opposition figure, not returning to council after an unsuccessful state Senate bid. Councilman Steve Shaw is currently in a runoff, and Jay Rogers will face Frank Farmer in a race for Tzouvelekas’ previous seat.
McGahhey noted that there is a sense of camaraderie among new council members, indicating they aim to drive significant changes in policy, particularly in opposition to tax increases and concerns over the county’s rapid growth.
Former Councilman Kirven, who has served since 2004, remarked that defending growth and tax increases is difficult during reelection campaigns. He expressed fears that recent council achievements might be undone under the new leadership.
Vice Chair Liz Seman, who did not face opposition in the primary, acknowledged some worries about the new members but remains optimistic about collaboration. She stated that those who voted for the tax increase did not take the decision lightly and are concerned about service cuts that might follow significant changes.
In addition, Councilman Ennis Fant, one of two Democrats on the council, is also heading into a runoff against Derrick Quarles for the District 25 seat.
