Charleston County creates tax incentive for affordable housing

CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCBD) — As the cost of living goes up, Charleston County is looking to create more affordable housing, with their multi-county park program.

The proposed county council program would create financial incentives like tax breaks for developers. In return, developers will provide a portion of their buildings for affordable workforce housing. This could be used for teachers, first responders, and others who work in the county, but can’t afford to live there.

“Charleston County has need for affordable housing. When you think of living in Charleston County one of the things you hear over and over is we need affordable housing,” said Loella Smalls, Director of Community Development and Vitalization.

The community program is focused on creating more affordable housing in the county to promote economic growth and improve quality of life.

“It helps our economy because one for the workers that are here it lets them move into housing they need. It also brings new businesses here because they know they can bring their business to Charleston County,” said Smalls.

Developers will have to apply for the program and must meet certain requirements.

“This will give us the guardrail in determining the projects and developers that will be eligible for this. There will be an application, there will be a portal developers will apply through it and then we will take that application and begin analysis,” said Smalls.

The policy went through the finance county meeting last night and will be voted on for approval Tuesday.

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