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Darlington County Progress to Help Reduce County’s Fiscal 2009 Budget

April 20, 2009

Darlington County Progress, Inc., a private not-for-profit corporation that supports economic development in the county, announced today that it has more than met its 2009 private sector fundraising goal and is committed to funding 50 percent of the proposed $280,000 operating budget of the Darlington County Economic Development Partnership, beginning July 1, 2009.  As a public/private economic development partnership, Darlington County would fund the remaining 50 percent of the partnership’s operating budget.

By funding its half of the partnership’s budget in fiscal 2009, Darlington County’s operating budget for economic development will be reduced from a budgeted $250,930 for fiscal 2008 to the proposed $140,000, resulting in a taxpayer savings of $110,930.

“We are pleased that the private sector has again stepped-up to support Darlington County’s economic development efforts,” said Charles Hardin, chairman of Darlington County Progress.  “We are very pleased with the results of our first fundraising campaign and as a result will reduce County expenditures during these tough economic times.”

An investor appreciation luncheon was held April 15, 2009 at the Darlington Raceway.  The event was to thank the almost 40 companies and organization that have become members of Darlington County Progress and for their support of economic development. Approximately 60 participants at the luncheon heard from Chris Browning, president of Darlington Raceway, and had an opportunity to ride the track’s pace car.

About the Darlington County Economic Development Partnership

The public/private partnership was established by Darlington County Council and is supported by Darlington County, City of Hartsville and members of Darlington County Progress, Inc.  The Partnership also works with regional, state and federal agencies in securing available grants and other financial assistance for business and industrial growth.

For more information, contact Robert Long at (843) 398-4600.