Welcome to another episode of Stronger Bonds! In this installment, hosts Emily Luther and Ray Jones return after a brief hiatus to continue their deep dive into one of South Carolina's most transformative pieces of tax legislation—Act 388. Picking up where they left off in their Act 388 series, Ray and Emily are joined by a special guest: Vincent Sheheen, former state senator, mayor of Camden, attorney, and author—who was actually in the room during Act 388’s genesis.

Together, they unpack the insider story behind the bill, discuss the driving forces and key players that shaped its passage, and explore the compromises that shifted property tax reform in new and sometimes controversial directions. Listeners will get exclusive insights into the legislative process, hear stories from the Senate floor (including the legendary “chicken box” negotiations), and learn about the far-reaching impact of Act 388 on local governments, schools, and South Carolina’s future.

Plus, stick around for the always-fun Around the Counter segment, where the team shares their favorite local “hole in the wall” lunch spots—and invites listeners to send in their own recommendations.

Whether you’re a property tax aficionado, a local government pro, or just hungry for a fun lunch recommendation, this episode promises sharp insights, candid conversation, and a peek behind the legislative curtain. Thanks for joining us on Stronger Bonds, where we talk all things government, development, taxes, finance, and yes—lunch!

• Act 388 of 2006: South Carolina Legislature Online
• Vincent’s Book: https://uscpress.com/The-Concise-Guide-to-South-Carolina-State-Government
• The Honorable Vincent A. Sheheen, Mayor of Camden, SC: Your Guide to Camden, SC
• Vincent A. Sheheen, Attorney & Mediator - Savage, Royall, & Sheheen

00:00 Introduction

03:38 Municipal Millage Levying Questions

06:42 Improving Act 388 Impact

12:23 School Funding's Impact on Property Tax

13:08 Key Legislative Leaders Unite

17:27 Property Tax Revolution and Impacts

22:23 Property Tax Impact on Housing Market

24:05 Senate Compromise on Property Tax

28:07 Tax Breaks Hinder Economic Growth

31:58 Millage Cap Exemptions for Counties

34:02 Property Tax Reform for Education

35:51 Writing South Carolina's Government Guide

41:56 Favorite Hole-in-the-Wall Lunches?

45:28 Exploring Act 388 Insights

Do you have a question, a topic idea, or a request? Please email us at [email protected].

Stronger Bonds is recorded and produced by Robby Woodard.

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