BACKGROUND

There is ample evidence that, over the last few years, city officials have squandered seven-figure amounts of tax revenue. Also, there have been instances of city officials forgoing significant income that the city treasury should have received but did not. Conflicts of interest involving the City Attorney are an issue. These circumstances are attributable to ill- conceived, ill-managed, and, sometimes, legally impermissible capital projects. Additionally, there has been a pattern and practice of poor business dealings that have led to the city buying properties at too high a price, and selling properties at too low a price. This is due, at least in part, to ignoring common-sense established commercial processes — such as obtaining pre- purchase property appraisals, and pre-sale or pre-award competitive bids. Of additional concern is the fact that no persons have been held to account for the failures.

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Going forward, how can the public be ensured of responsible investment and spending of taxpayer dollars?

KATHRYN WADE: Our city should not be in the real estate business.  Any property the city purchases or owns should be related to the functions of our government.  Any such properties must be pre-appraised and fully vetted as appropriate for our administrative use.

City officials and Planning and Zoning should come alongside private investors and developers to facilitate worthy projects.  We have had many proposals die because of the lack of follow through from our city.  This lack of activity affects our tax base which ultimately impacts our citizens.

I have run a non-profit from over 20 years.  Although the budget is much smaller, I have learned that you much be a good steward with others’ money.  You spend money on necessities first. All other things are prioritized in order of need, importance and impact on the mission.

We owe it to our citizens and our future citizens to be fiscally responsible.

TEDDY MILNER: Transparent decision-making and public engagement are critical to ensuring that taxpayer dollars are invested and spent deliberately and responsibly. One way to improve in this area would be to include with City Council agendas a summary budget and spend plan for all major investments. 

Further, I believe that city Council should lessen their reliance on frequent executive sessions, and “public meetings with invited stakeholders.” This approach only undermines public confidence. Citizens deserve transparency and accountability from their government.

To avoid future conflicts of interest, should the City hire an attorney on staff, (as is the case with the Aiken County Government), whose only client would be the City of Aiken?

 KATHRYN WADE: I do believe the city should have their own attorney on staff.  Aiken is a growing city and our issues are becoming more complex.  I think having someone who is single-mindedly devoted to the best interests of our city is a key to our stong future.

TEDDY MILNER: Yes! In addition to a dedicated City attorney, the City Finance Department also needs an auditor.

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Mayoral Forum Intro
The candidates respond on the issues:
Public Participation in Government
Responsible Development
Infrastructure
Financial Responsibility
Housing and Homelessness