Resolution Supporting the Extension of the Impact Fee Expenditure Timeline
WHEREAS, South Carolina is one of the fastest-growing states in the nation, placing increasing pressure on local infrastructure such as roads, utilities, and public services; and
WHEREAS, current state law requires local governments to spend collected impact fees within three (3) years, limiting their effectiveness in funding long-term infrastructure projects; and
WHEREAS, rising construction costs and delays in materials and labor make it harder for local governments to complete major infrastructure projects within the current three-year limit; and
WHEREAS, as a result, very few counties in South Carolina impose impact fees, despite their value in helping fast-growing communities manage the cost of growth; and
WHEREAS, impact fees are a fair and responsible funding tool that ensures the cost of new residential and commercial development is borne by those who create the demand, rather than by existing residents and businesses; and
WHEREAS, House Bill H3165, introduced in the South Carolina General Assembly, proposes key reforms to improve infrastructure planning by extending the allowable time to spend impact fee revenues from three (3) to seven (7) years;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Lexington County Republican Party supports the passage of House Bill H3165 and urges the South Carolina General Assembly to adopt this reform that extends the impact fee expenditure timeline to give local governments the flexibility and tools needed to plan for growth and invest in essential infrastructure.
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Approved unanimously on August 4, 2025 by the LCRP Executive Committee.