Charleston, SC, September 20, 2025
News Summary
Residents in the St. Andrews Public Service District of West Ashley are experiencing a significant burden due to higher property taxes and reduced governmental services compared to those in Charleston. This ongoing issue is rooted in the special-purpose district system established by South Carolina lawmakers. Proposed changes by Charleston City Council, including the development of a new fire and EMS station, aim to address these disparities while economic relief through annexation is being considered by many residents.
Charleston, SC – Residents of West Ashley who live in the St. Andrews Public Service District (PSD) are facing higher property taxes and less governmental services compared to their counterparts in Charleston. This disparity highlights ongoing issues within the special-purpose district system established by South Carolina lawmakers decades ago to retain local power.
Thousands of property owners within the St. Andrews PSD are burdened with significantly higher property taxes and elevated rates for water and sewer, while receiving fewer public services. These residents also contend with an arrangement where Charleston is mandated to return all property taxes collected from St. Andrews residents who choose to annex into the city for seven years. Despite this, the city still provides necessary services to these residents during that time.
Charleston is required to make payments to St. Andrews exceeding the property tax revenue it collects from the district. The reason for this is that the tax rate in St. Andrews is notably higher than that of Charleston. While the local option sales tax has helped decrease the property tax rate disparities between the two areas, many St. Andrews residents are compelled to consider annexation into Charleston for economic relief.
The roots of these issues can be traced back to the creation of special purpose districts like St. Andrews, which were intended to address local service demands without empowering county governments. However, recent legislative attempts to streamline the process for dissolving these special districts have been unsuccessful, exacerbating the challenges faced by local residents.
Efforts from the Charleston City Council have included discussions on recovering $770,000 mistakenly overpaid to St. Andrews for annexed residents and renegotiating the funding arrangement. City Councilman Keith Waring noted that many St. Andrews residents are interested in annexation but encounter eligibility challenges due to their non-contiguous properties.
Amidst the financial concerns, the development of a new fire and emergency medical services (EMS) station near the intersection of Ashley River Road and Old Parsonage Road is underway, expected to be completed by fall 2025. This new facility aims to enhance public safety and emergency response in an area that currently lacks adequate EMS coverage and is witnessing a rise in call volumes.
The existing St. Andrews Fire Department station, built in 1967, has experienced maintenance difficulties and flooding issues, further underscoring the need for improved infrastructure. Charleston County officials emphasize the new station’s importance in ensuring enhanced emergency services, especially during disasters. The project also includes a public passive park and plans for a stormwater retention pond, improving environmental management in the area.
As the St. Andrews PSD grapples with these challenges, a growing call for state lawmakers to dissolve such districts aims to improve government efficiency and public accountability may prompt future changes. The situation continues to develop as residents advocate for better services and more equitable taxation.
FAQ
What is the current tax situation for St. Andrews residents in West Ashley?
Residents in St. Andrews PSD pay significantly higher property taxes and higher rates for water and sewer while receiving fewer governmental services compared to Charleston residents.
What is the history behind the St. Andrews Public Service District?
Special purpose districts like St. Andrews were created by now-deceased South Carolina lawmakers to maintain local power instead of empowering county governments to meet service demands.
What recent actions have Charleston City Council taken regarding St. Andrews PSD?
The City Council discussed recovering $770,000 mistakenly overpaid to St. Andrews for annexed residents and renegotiating the funding arrangement.
When is the new fire and EMS station expected to be completed?
The new fire and EMS station is expected to be completed by fall 2025.
What additional features will be included in the new facility?
The project will also include a public passive park and a stormwater retention pond.
Key Features Summary
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Property Taxes | Higher rates for St. Andrews residents compared to Charleston |
| Services | Fewer governmental services for St. Andrews residents |
| City Council Actions | Discussions on recovering overpayment and renegotiating taxes |
| New Fire and EMS Station | Completion expected by fall 2025 |
| Additional Project Features | Public passive park and stormwater retention pond |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Charleston’s Charter School Funding Disparities Uncovered
April Events and Festivals in Charleston
Ashley River Crossing Bridge Project Construction Begins
Additional Resources
- Post and Courier: St. Andrews and Charleston PSD Dinosaurs
- Wikipedia: Special-purpose district
- Count On 2: Charleston City Council Action
- Google Search: St. Andrews Public Service District
- ABC News 4: New Fire and EMS Station
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Public Service District
Author: STAFF HERE CHARLESTON
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