FAQs • Spartanburg County, SC • CivicEngage

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Assessor

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1. The acreage on my tax notice is incorrect.: Research your deed or plat and Email mapping@spartanburgcounty.org

2. How can I have my mailing address corrected on my tax notice?: Address Change requests must be accompanied by a photocopy of one piece of
identification. Accepted examples include; driver’s license, birth certificate, passport, or South
Carolina ID Card. If you are not the owner of record, ownership will need to be verified with a
copy of documentation. Signatures by agents or trustees must include authorization from owner
such as Power of Attorney, memorandum of Trust or Trust Agreement, etc. Email
mapping@spartanburgcounty.org or mail address request to Assessor’s Office, PO Box 5762,
Spartanburg, SC 29304.

3. I am purchasing property under contract. Can tax notice be mailed to my address?: Yes, purchaser can receive tax notice, provided the contract for deed states purchaser’s
responsibility to pay taxes. Email mapping@spartanburgcounty.org

4. How are appraisals determined?: Both mass appraisal and single-property appraisal are systematic methods for arriving at
estimates of value. The scope and quality of the mass appraisal is measured with statistics
developed from sales for the entire area appraised using the Assessor’s valuation model. For
more information contact the commercial or residential appraisal departments of the Assessor’s
Office Email: commercial@spartanburgcounty.org or residential@spartanburgcounty.org.

5. Why are similar properties appraised at different amounts?: Property Tax Reform Act #388 of 2006 and the voter referendum that followed changed the S.C. Constitution and effectively granted the authority to define market value for property tax purposes to the S.C. General Assembly. This authority is in addition to the market value definition found in the S.C. Constitution but may now be changed at the General Assembly’s discretion. The new definition limits valuation increases during reappraisals to 15% of the base year value or a current market value when an assessable transfer of interest occurs or the value as determined on appeal. Each property is taxed based on its own unique ownership and acquisition circumstance. Therefore, taxable values may differ greatly on similar properties.

6. When is the next reappraisal?: The next reappraisal is in 2018. State law requires reappraisal every five years. The last reappraisal was in 2013.

7. How do I appeal the appraisal?: Appraisals can be appealed by writing to the Assessor’s Office. Only written and signed
appeals are recognized as official. Verbal appeals cannot be considered official appeals unless
they are followed up with a written document. See the Appeals page for more information,

8. Can I sell my property for this appraisal?: The assessor’s mass appraisal is performed for property tax purposes only and does not
restrict your asking price.

9. What is the difference between the appraised value and the assessed value?: The appraised value is the value estimate established by the Assessor from the last
reappraisal program, an assessable transfer of interest, the value as a result of an appeal, or
the value after new construction/remodeling. Appraised value may be capped based on the last
reappraisal (15% limitation). The assessed value is the result of multiplying the assessment
ratio by the appraised value.

10. I no longer own this property. What should I do with this tax notice?: If ownership transferred in current year, forward tax notice to new owner or contact closing
attorney for advice. If ownership transferred after January 1st, the new owner will be updated to
Assessor file for the following tax year. If ownership transferred last year, Email
mapping@spartanburgcounty.org

11. I have owned this property one or more years. I have not received a tax notice.: For real property; research your deed or contract for deed and check to see if it is recorded.
If it is not recorded, record the contract in the Register of Deeds office and bring a copy of the
recorded document to the Assessor’s Office. If the document is recorded. Email
mapping@spartanburgcounty.org with deed book and deed page number. For Mobile Home;
Take your title to the mobile home department and apply for change of ownership permit in
Room 800 of the County Administration Building.

12. I purchased property this year. Will I get a tax notice?: Duplicate tax notices may be sent to new property owners upon request. Email Assessor@SpartanburgCounty.org

13. I recently divorced. How do I get former spouse’s name removed from the tax notice?: For real property: Prepare a new deed and record at Spartanburg Register of Deeds office. For Mobile Home: Contact financing company for new title.
Then take new title to mobile home department and apply for change of ownership permit in
Room 800 of the County Administration Building.

14. What exemptions are available to taxpayers?

Owner Occupied Residential Assessment 4%.

Agricultural Land Use Assessment

Homestead Exemption (Age or disability requirement)

South Carolina Tax Exemptions
1. Church organizations qualify for exemption from date of purchase.
2. Individuals qualify exemption for property owned if;
a. Disabled veteran, paraplegic, hemiplegic, quadriplegic, or surviving spouse of .
Occupies dwelling December 31st of the previous year.
b. http://www.sctax.org/NR/rdonlyres/122AD2DD-BD0D-445F-B89C-
1F92C3ED8848/0/pt401.PDF

15. Church received tax notice. Should churches be automatically exempt of taxes?: Separate applications for exemption must be filed for each parcel of real estate. If a church
changes its name, or acquires additional property, a new application is required. Once certified
by the SC Department of Revenue, taxes will be exempted and prorated from date of transfer if
applicable.
http://www.sctax.org/NR/rdonlyres/122AD2Dd-BD0D-445F-B89C-1F92C3ED8848/0/pt401.PDF

16. What are the fees on my tax notice?: 1. County Landfill Fee Sec. 66-5 Spartanburg County Code. Sec. 66-5. –Service charge on
residential properties. An annual landfill service charge is hereby levied upon all residential
properties, including mobile home and farm residences, in the county. The service charge shall
be levied on individual residential units located in apartments and duplexes and on individual
mobile home parking spaces located in mobile home parks. The service charge shall be added
to the annual tax bill of the owners of such residential properties and collected at the same time
and subject to the same provisions as county taxes. Unpaid service charges shall constitute a
lien against the property charged, superior to all other liens and encumbrances except only the
lien for property taxes, and such unpaid service charges shall accrue interest and penalties as
provided for property taxes. The method provided in this section for the enforcement of the
collection of past due service charges shall not be the exclusive method of enforcing such
collections, and the council may enforce the collection of any service charge in any other lawful
manner.
2. The ordinance above refers to the county’s residential landfill fee enacted in 1980. There is
no provision for properties that qualify for a tax exemption under the State Code of Laws
(Section 12-37-220) to be excluded from the fee. The municipal fees may also be included on
exempt properties, so they would be receiving a bill for a fee on an otherwise tax exempt
property.
4. Municipal fees. These fees may consist of storm water fees, solid waste service fees,
property maintenance fees, or demolition fees, etc. Reference Sections 6-1-330, 5-7-300, 5-7-
80 and 48-14-120 of the SC Code of Laws. Municipal fees were added to the Assessor
database beginning with the 2011 tax year. We are required to manage the addition of the fees
to assessor database from a data file provided by the municipalities. If a change is warranted,
the municipality will execute refunds or adjustments directly to the taxpayer. The County is not
expected to reissue any tax bills due to any municipal fee changes. This includes requests for
combinations of parcels to avoid the fees. Taxpayer inquiries about the fees should be directed
to the appropriate municipality.
City of Spartanburg – 864-562-4510 Storm water fees and residential garbage fees are
combined and loaded as a single total fee called “CSFT” (City of Spartanburg Fee Total).
City of Greer – 864-848-2175 Total storm water and public service fee which was loaded as a
single total fee called “CGFT” (City of Greer Fee Total).
Town of Pacolet – 864-474-9504 Sanitation Fee based on the county’s existing landfill fee
residential unit indicator. The fee is $45 and is called “CPAC” (City of Pacolet).
City of Duncan – 864-439-4875 Public Works fee of $60 was loaded on each parcel in the City
of Duncan. The fee is called “CDUN” (City of Duncan).
City of Landrum – 864-457-3000 Landrum provided specific amounts to cover city expenses
for demolition and cleanup. The fee is called “CLFT” (City of Landrum Fee Total).

17. Are the maps on the Assessor’s Web?: Yes, Go to the GIS page for links to the online mapping programs.

18. Where can I get a topographical map?: Contact GIS Department at 864-596-2005.

19. How did you get the legal description or the location address of the property?: Legal descriptions come from deeds and plats or are derived from the physical location of
the property with roads and landmarks as identifiers. Location addresses are assigned by the
County Addressing department 864-596-2005.

20. Why do I get separate notices for my land and mobile home?: A mobile home is a separate asset than the land it is situated upon.

21. How can I combine my mobile home and land taxes?: To have your mobile home and land considered an asset, you must de-title the home.

22. Do mobile homes depreciate every year?: Mobile homes are reappraised at the same time real estate is reappraised. Depreciation is
determined at the time of appraisal. Email amh@SpartanburgCounty.org

23. Mobile home burned years ago. Why am I still receiving tax notice?: A fire report must be submitted to the Assessor to determine when to remove the mobile
home from tax roll.

24. Mobile home is unlivable. Am I required to continue paying taxes on it?: Email amh@SpartanburgCounty.org

25. Why do I pay taxes on my mobile home if it will be moved out of the county?: The South Carolina Code of Laws Section 31-17-360 states that if a mobile home is to be
removed beyond the taxable boundaries of the county, any taxes that have been assessed in
that calendar year must be paid in full; And, if the taxes have not yet been assessed for the
calendar year in which the move is being made, the Assessor shall provide the County Auditor
with an assessment and the Auditor shall apply the previous year’s millage.

26. I moved my mobile home to another county. Why am I still receiving a tax bill?: Company or individual must purchase a moving permit to remove mobile home from tax roll
and avoid future tax bills.

27. Why am I required to get a mobile home permit?: South Carolina Code of Laws Section 31-17-320 and Spartanburg County Ordinance # 491
(Spartanburg County Unified Lad Management) requires mobile home owners to obtain a permit
to move a mobile home into, within, or out of the county and to change the ownership of a
mobile home.
The South Carolina Code of Laws Section 31-17-340 states that decals are required on mobile
homes. A decal expires when ownership transfers, the decal is removed or not readable. The
decal is issued through the permitting process.

28. How much does a mobile home permit cost?: Contact Spartanburg County Building and Fire Codes at 864-596-2727.

29. Mobile home no longer belongs to me. I continue to get a tax notice.: If sold current year, forward tax notice to new owner. Notify new owner to purchase a
change of ownership permit through Spartanburg County Building and Fire Codes at 864-596-
2727.

30. My mobile home was repossessed years ago. Why am I still receiving a tax notice?: Email amh@spartanburgcounty.org

31. I purchased a mobile home/land package deal. My attorney handled my paperwork. Why is the mobile home still in the prior owner’s name?: Mobile Home owner must file title, bill of sale or Form 400 with the Department of Motor
Vehicles and obtain a change of ownership permit for the mobile home from Spartanburg
County Building and Fire Codes at 864-596-2727.

32. I purchased mobile home from a dealer or individual. I have not received a tax notice.: Visit the Mobile Home Division to change ownership of mobile home and receive required
decal.

33. I inherited mobile home from deceased relative. How do I get mobile home into my name?: If mobile home is paid for, the heir should submit will and title to the SC Highway Department
for name transfer. Take new title to Spartanburg County Building and Fire Codes at 864-596-
2727 and apply for ownership permit. If mobile home is being financed, the heir should Email
amh@SpartanburgCounty.org or the financing company for instructions.

34. Additional owner names missing from tax notice.: Refer to deed.
1. If names are on deed, Email mapping@spartanburgcounty.org.
2. If names are not on deed, contact attorney to record corrective deed at Register of
Deeds Office.

35. Names are misspelled on tax notice.: Refer to deed.
1. If names are spelled correctly on deed, Email mapping@spartanburgcounty.org .
2. If names are spelled incorrectly on deed, contact attorney to record corrective deed at
Register of Deeds Office.

36. Tax notice has incorrect or incomplete property location. Am I being taxed for the right property and how can I get it corrected?: Go to Assessor file to check PROP DESC. Compare PROP DESC to legal description on
property deed. http://qpublic.net/sc/spartanburg/search.html
1. If PROP DESC matches deed, the correct property is taxed. Email
mapping@spartanburgcounty.org or Planning Department to update property location at
864-596-3570.
2. If PROP DESC does not match deed, Email mapping@spartanburgcounty.org to
research correct property. Please provide all supporting documentation.

37. If I have been assessed at the wrong assessment ratio, how can I apply for a refund?: Claim for Refund Forms are available in Assessor’s office. Proper paid document required
(original receipt, mortgage/escrow statement, or copy of cancelled check).
Email refunds@spartanburgcounty.org

38. I applied for a refund and have not received it yet.: Email refunds@spartanburgcounty.org

39. I received a rollback tax notice(s). What is it for?: Any property that is classified and taxed as agricultural real property and whose use
changes to something other than bona fide agricultural is subject to additional tax. This rollback
tax is computed as the difference between the taxes paid at the use value assessment and
what taxes would have been paid had the property been assessed at fair market value. The
roll-back may be applied to each of the previous five (5) years. Email
Assessor@SpartanburgCounty.org

40. Why do the current and previous year taxes differ so much?: Difference could be due to changes in appraisal, assessment, millage rate, exemptions.
Email Assessor@SpartanburgCounty.org

41. How are taxes calculated?: Appraised Value X Assessment Ratio X Millage Rate (Tax Levy) = Property Tax Property Tax – State Property Tax Relief = Net Tax Due Add land fill fee of $57.00 per single family dwellings; $57.00 per unit of multi-family dwellings. Email Assessor@SpartanburgCounty.org or contact Auditor’s Office for tax estimate.

42. Can I appeal this year’s taxes?: Taxes cannot be appealed. Appraisals can be appealed by writing to the Assessor’s office.
Time limitations apply. Email Assessor@SpartanburgCounty.org

43. Can I pay these taxes under protest?: There is no provision to pay taxes under protest.

44. When are real estate taxes due?: January 15th to avoid penalties.

45. I never received my tax notice; have not received the duplicate tax notice I requested: Email Assessor@SpartanburgCounty.org

46. My first tax notice was incorrect. I have not received a revised tax notice yet.: Email Assessor@SpartanburgCounty.org

47. I received two tax notices with different amounts. Which is correct?: Email Assessor@SpartanburgCounty.org

48. Is it possible to pay taxes without tax notice in hand?: Taxes can be paid without tax notice. A tax receipt number or map reference number or the
taxpayer name may be used to find the account to be paid. Please review before paying to
make sure it is the correct one.

49. My mortgage company pays my taxes. Why did I receive tax notice?: The tax notice is sent to the property owner. Mortgage companies receive tax information
upon request. Contact your mortgage company to confirm receipt.

50. Why did the levy go up? How was the levy determined?: Email Assessor@SpartanburgCounty.org or Auditor’s office at 864-596-2600.

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Assessor - Reappraisal

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1. Why Do We Pay Property Tax?: Local governments collect property taxes to provide for the services most of us take for granted. Schools, police and fire protection, roads and bridges, EMS, water and sewer systems, the judicial system, and public libraries are financed through revenue from the property tax. A review of your most recent tax bill shows a detailed breakdown of how and where your tax dollars go. We are all asked to pay a share of the cost of these services by paying tax in proportion to the value of our property. Real property taxes are paid by owners of land, mobile homes, and buildings, including homeowners, landlords, business owners, and industries. Property taxes are based on the market value of the land and buildings as of December 31st of the preceding year. For example, the tax bill you receive every fall is based on property values and construction that existed on December 31, 2012.

2. Where Does The Property Tax Revenue Go?: The local school boards, county and city councils and special-purpose districts determine how much money must be collected to fund their budgets and the tax rate necessary to meet those budgets. For many governments, property taxes make up only a portion of the total amount of revenue needs to fund the budget. Fees and other sources of income make up the remainder. Just because collecting the tax is a county function does not mean that all the taxes collected are the responsibility of the county. In fact, only one fifth (1/5) of the typical tax bill in Spartanburg pays for county operation costs. The rest of the revenue is distributed to the 72 other local government entities whose budgets rely on property taxes.

3. Why Have Reappraisal?: The sole purpose of reappraisal is to ensure fairness in the property tax system. In a property tax system, a taxpayer's fair share is determined by the value of the property he or she owns as compared to the value of the property owned by the other taxpayers in the jurisdiction. The value of property changes over time and some properties change in value more than others. If the values used for taxation purposes are not in line with current market values, there is no assurance that any taxpayer is being charged his or her fair share. From the time your property is added to the tax rolls, the appraisal does not change unless there is a change to the property that will affect the market value (such as a new structure, an addition to an existing structure, the removal of a structure, a change in the use of land) or a reappraisal program. Fair and equitable taxes are not possible unless appraisals are made in light of current market conditions. Only real estate property values are affected by reappraisal. South Carolina law requires counties to implement reappraisal programs every five years. After implementing the 2013 program, work began on the 2018 program. Values of personal property such as cars, boats, and motorcycles are kept current through annual updates by the South Carolina Department of Revenue and Taxation.

4. How Is Reappraisal Done?: For the 2013 reappraisal, appraisers in the County Assessor's office examined properties to determine current market value as of December 31, 2012. Determining the market value on all these properties is a massive undertaking, requiring the Assessor to maintain information on each property located in the county, including size, age, location and certain other features. To find the fair market value of any piece of property, the Assessor researches what similar properties have sold for, current replacement cost, how much it takes to operate and repair, how much rent the property may earn, and other factors affecting its value.
Values are now limited to 15% during reappraisals unless there have been additions or improvement to the property, if the property has sold or if there is an assessable transfer of interest. All county appraisers receive extensive training and must be licensed by the SC Real Estate Appraisal Board. It is important to remember that the Assessor does not create value; only the market place can do that. The basic principles of value such as supply and demand, competition and contribution are major factors in determining a property's fair market value.

5. How Will I Be Advised Of My 2013 Reappraisal Change?: More than 157,300 reappraisal notices showing the market value and the limited value as of December 31, 2012, will be mailed by September 2013. This notice is not a tax bill nor is it the amount of taxes to be paid. It simply notifies taxpayers of a change in their property's value. The notice includes your new (2013) market value, the limited value, the assessed value, the assessment ratio, the number of acres or lots, the location of the property, and the map reference number. It also includes the appeal procedure you must follow if you disagree with the taxable value placed on your property.

6. How Can I Be Sure My Reappraisal Is Fair And Correct?: If you disagree or have questions concerning the new value assigned to your property, you have 90 days from the date on the reappraisal notice to file an objection. You must file a written notice of your appeal to the Spartanburg County Assessor, P.0. Box 5762, Spartanburg, SC 29304, and state why you believe the new appraisal is incorrect. Please provide any supporting documents or facts that substantiate your opinion of value. The appeal is based on the value of the property, not the potential amount of taxes. The Assessor will schedule an informal conference with you to discuss your concerns. The appraiser conducting the conference will review your property record with you and give you information about the values of comparable properties in your neighborhood. To be sure your reappraisal is fair and correct; you should verify that any items that affect market value such as land size, age and size of the structure, etc. are correct and that your property is not appraised for more than recent sales of comparable properties have indicated your property to be worth. Property Data is available at 366 North Church St. Spartanburg, SC 29303, from 8:00 AM until 5:00 PM Monday through Friday. Data is also available on the Internet at www.spartanburgcounty.org. After the property review, a second assessment notice will be issued. If you still disagree, you may appeal to the Spartanburg County Board of Assessment Appeals. If you disagree with the Board's decision, you may request a contested case hearing before the Sounth Carolina Administrative Law Court.

7. Will My Taxes Increase Because Of Reappraisal?: Some property owners will notice a decrease in their taxes, some will stay the same and some will pay more taxes. Reappraisal is not implemented to raise taxes; it is intended to distribute the tax burden fairly among all property owners. Also, changes in the total assessed values of other components of the property tax base, such as manufacturing and automobiles, could also result in shifts in tax burden. In addition, the property tax relief credits, which are controlled by the South Carolina General Assembly, may also change affecting the bottom line on the tax bill.

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Building Codes

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1. Where do I apply for a business license?: Spartanburg County does not require a business license in the County.

2. Where can I get a copy of the Code Book?: Website: www.iccsafe.org to order online
Call: ICC Store 1-800-786-4452 or 1-888-422-7233
You can also view the code books at the Downtown Public Library.

3. How do I report a property in my neighborhood that is not being maintained?: Call Property Maintenance at 1-864-596-3186.

4. How do I make a complaint about my landlord not fixing problems in my home?: You will need to come down to the office to fill out a landlord / tenant form (there is no related cost to fill out the form).

5. How much will the permit cost?: Please call the Building Codes Office at 1-864-596-2727.

6. How do I know if I am in the City or County?: Please call the Building Codes Office at 1-864-596-2727 to determine your location based on your address.

7. What are the setbacks for my property?: Please refer to the Planning & Development Department by calling 1-864-596-3570.

8. Where can I get a plat of my property?: Please refer to the Register of Deeds Office by calling 1-864-596-2514.

9. When does my permit expire?: Permits expire 6 months after they are issued unless you have an inspection within 6 months, then the permit will renew for another 6 months.

10. What year of Mobile Home can be moved?

Any year mobile home can be moved AS LONG AS IT IS ALREADY ON SPARTANBURG COUNTY TAX ROLL. However, if it is older than 1976 and not on the tax roll, it can't be added back to the tax roll.

Examples:

-A 1972 mobile home coming from Greenville County will not be allowed into Spartanburg County.

-A 1972 mobile home already on the tax roll can be moved to a new location inside Spartanburg County.

11. I have already changed the title of my mobile home into my name, why do I need to come to the Building Codes Office?: We are not linked with the DMV to know that you have changed the title into your name as the new owner; therefore you will need to bring the new title down to our office to do a Change of Ownership Permit. The cost for the permit is $50.

12. Does a carport / storage building require a permit?: Yes. Any structure that you buy or build on your property requires a permit.

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Communications 9-1-1 - Operations

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1. Why do telecommunicators ask so many questions?: The telecommunicator's job is to get enough information to adequately categorize, prioritize and locate a call-for-service. While the telecommunicator is asking you questions, he or she is entering information into a computer-aided dispatch (CAD) system. Other telecommunicators can see the information as it is entered and send responders. Talking to the telecommunicator does not delay response. The telecommunicator is gathering information that is necessary for the responding units. The telecommunicator is also trained to offer potential life saving instructions while emergency responders are en route to the scene.

2. When should I call 9-1-1?: You should call 9-1-1 for life-threatening emergencies, crimes in progress, and other emergency situations. If you are ever in doubt, call 9-1-1 and let the telecommunicator determine if you have an emergency.

3. When should I call the non-emergency number?: You should call the non emergency number to request information, report lost or stolen property, report a parking violation or other incidents that are not time-sensitive. If you are ever in doubt, call 9-1-1 and allow the telecommunicator to determine if it is an emergency.

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Communications/9-1-1 - FOIA

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1. What kind of information may I obtain?

•Dispatch Reports - the most common type of information requested are dispatch reports. Dispatch reports contain information from our dispatch system. These reports are the time-stamped activity logs for each event. They have historically been used primarily by emergency service personnel so they are sometimes hard to understand. This is NOT a report taken by an emergency responder, those must be obtained from the agency that responded to your event. Many people request these reports mistakenly thinking that they are requesting the report that a law enforcement officer made for their event. If approved for release, dispatch reports have the lowest cost and can be delivered by postal mail, Email or fax (if the fax is monitored by the requesting person).

•Audio Recordings - Every telephone in our dispatch center is recorded. These recordings are available through the Freedom Of Information Act. State law requires us to keep recordings for a minimum of 60 days, but we typically keep them longer. Telephone recordings take considerably longer to locate and copy than dispatch reports and will extend the time that your request takes to process and will increase the cost.

•Other types of information - Any information that does not meet exemption criteria under the South Carolina Code of Laws can be requested. If you are looking for information that does not fall into the two categories above, please call to inquire or submit a written request and you will be contacted.

2. How do I request information about an incident?

We must receive your request in writing. To make the process easier, we have a form on our Web site that you can fill-out and submit to us. You may write your own letter or email as long as it contains all of the required information. You must be specific about what kind of information that you want, and you must provide specific information for the event to be located (address, date/time, the agency that responded, etc.)

Our mailing address is:
Spartanburg Communications / 9-1-1
Attn: FOIA Fulfillment
PO Box 5666
Spartanburg SC 29304-5666

Our fax number is (864) 596-2382

3. How long will it take to receive the information that I am requesting?: We like to fill requests as soon as possible and in accordance with the SC Freedom of Information Act. We receive dozens of requests each week from citizens, attorneys, emergency personnel, investigators, and many other sources. As you can imagine, this creates a very large work-load for the few employees who can retrieve such information. We are, however, mindful that you want the information as soon as possible and we want to make every effort to provide it to you in a timely manor.

4. What is the process of approval, denial and fulfillment of my request?

1. The request is received by the Communications / 9-1-1 department in writing.
2. The request is reviewed by the Communications/9-1-1 Department with input from any involved agency(s) to determine if any exemption to the release of the information is applicable.
3. The request is forwarded to the County attorney's office for review of any applicable exemptions and/or for release.
4. We will contact you to acknowledge the receipt of your request and about the costs of your request, along with specific instructions for the remittance of payment or any other task that you need to complete, in accordance with the SC Freedom of Information Act. If a request is to be denied, you will receive written notification of the reason for denial in accordance with the SC Freedom of Information Act.

•When the Communications / 9-1-1 department is notified that payment has been received (or when we receive payment if it is sent directly to us), work begins to locate, copy and prepare the information.

•When the information has been prepared, it will be mailed to you (unless you requested another method of delivery).

5. In what format(s) can I receive the information and what are the delivery options?

•Formats - Dispatch reports can be printed and/or put into PDF format. Audio files are saved as .wav files. Any information that is put onto CD media is done so for use in a PC and typically does not work in CD audio players. If you do not specify a preference, dispatch reports will be printed and mailed and audio files will be put onto a CD and mailed.

•Postal mail - By default, information is delivered to you using the mailing address information that you provide in the request. You may request an alternate delivery method (listed below).

• Email - If you prefer (and indicate so on your request), some types of information can be emailed to you. Dispatch reports can be delivered in PDF format and small, single audio files can sometimes be sent via Email. Before sending information to an Email address, the address and recipient will be verified. If we can not verify the address, or if we send a verification email and do not receive a reply, the information will be put onto a CD and mailed to you.

•Fax - If you prefer (and indicate so on your request), dispatch reports can be faxed to you in some cases. Information is not faxed unless (1) you verify - at the time it is sent - that you are standing by the receiving fax machine to securely receive it as it is transmitted or (2) the fax machine is your personal device or it is in a secure location (such as your private office).

•Other - In accordance with the South Carolina Freedom of Information Act, you may be permitted to visit our office to inspect the materials of interest if you do not wish to have a copy of it. This is rarely chosen as an option, but is offered if you wish to only view the information on our systems. This should be clearly indicated on your request and requires some preparation to locate the information before-hand. Appointments are set at the convenience of our staff. It is also time consuming because the raw data in its original format is sometimes not easily understood and requires a great deal of explanation. In accordance with the SC FOIA there is a charge for preparation time and time spent by staff with the requester, at $20 per hour. If after reviewing files and recordings the requester wishes to have copies or recordings made there will be a fee for that as well.

6. How much will my request cost?

•The South Carolina Freedom of Information Act allows for the establishment and collection of fees, not to exceed the actual costs, for the search and preparation of information requested.

•Each request's cost is calculated based on the estimated time that it will take to search for and prepare the information; the costs of CDs, sleeves, mailers, printed pages, postage; and any other actual cost. All costs are actual or less, Spartanburg County does not make a profit on the labor or materials used.

•The current hourly rate charged for labor is $20. Printed pages are $0.04 each, CDs are $1.00 (this includes protective envelope), and postage is $0.44 for standard envelopes (larger or specialty envelopes will incur an additional charge).

•The majority of requests for information from Spartanburg County, on a single emergency event, cost less than $25 (for dispatch reports & telephone audio recordings).

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Communications/9-1-1 - Technical Services

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1. Does the county radio shop buy radios?: No, the Spartanburg Communications/9-1-1 radio shop does not purchase radios or radio accessories for City/County Departments, but will make recommendations and assist with specifications for purchase. The communications department manages the monthly billing for approximately 1600 radios per month. Radios are purchased by the individual department or agency with their budgeted funds. Exceptions are special funding, grants or projects for county agencies.

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County Council Penny Sales Tax

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1. When is the referendum?: The referendum is on the ballot for the next general election scheduled for November 7, 2017.

2. How is the referendum question worded on the ballot?

Question

Must a special one percent sales and use tax be imposed in Spartanburg County (the “County”) for 6 years to raise the amounts specified for the following purposes:

Priority No.	Project Description	Cost
1	Replacement of current City of Spartanburg and Spartanburg County judicial facilities (to include a new Spartanburg County Courthouse, City of Spartanburg municipal court/police facilities, Spartanburg County emergency operations center (currently located in the basement of the County Courthouse), and associated parking and infrastructure, in one or more structures)	$ 151,519,154
2	Replacement of current City of Spartanburg City Hall and Spartanburg County Administrative Building (to include new joint use government center facilities to serve both the City of Spartanburg and Spartanburg County, and associated parking and infrastructure, in one or more structures)	65,326,428
3	Road and Bridge Projects (to include the then highest priority projects identified in the County’s Capital Improvement Plan after taking into account the availability of State and other funds)	7,554,418

	Total	$ 224,400,000

and pending the receipt of such sales and use tax, must the County also be authorized to issue and sell, either as a single issue or as several separate issues, general obligation bonds (the “Bonds”) of the County in an aggregate principal amount not exceeding $217,000,000, to defray the costs of the projects listed above plus issuance costs, to be paid from the sales and use tax to be imposed as stated herein and pledged to the payment of the principal of and interest on the Bonds, and, in the event such sales and use tax is inadequate, such bonds shall be payable from a sufficient ad valorem tax imposed on all taxable property in the County?

CONDITIONS AND RESTRICTIONS ON THE USE OF SALES AND USE TAX REVENUE COLLECTED UNDER THE CAPITAL PROJECTS SALES TAX ACT: The capital projects sales and use tax and any related Bond proceeds shall be used and expended for procurement, design, engineering, project management, construction and/or improvement of the projects listed above, including payment of such sums as may be required in connection with the issuance of Bonds. Net proceeds of the capital project sales and use tax or the proceeds of any related bonds, if approved, must be expended for the purposes stated, in the priority listed above. The expenditures of revenues from the capital projects sales and use tax or the proceeds of any related bonds, if approved, shall be subject to acquisition of property, rights-of-way, design and engineering considerations, the receipt of all necessary permits and regulatory approvals, funding of projects from other sources (including unanticipated grants that fund a project), bids in excess of project estimates, qualifications of bidders, cost overruns, financing costs, exhaustion or insufficiency of net sales and use tax revenues or Bond proceeds to complete the projects in the order and priority stated above, and other unforeseen circumstances and conditions. In the event any of the foregoing affect any project, the County Council shall, by ordinance, make findings regarding the same before funding a lesser priority project. Nothing herein shall prevent the simultaneous funding of multiple projects consistent with each project’s designated priority.

INSTRUCTIONS TO VOTERS: All qualified electors of the County desiring to vote in favor of imposing the tax for the stated purposes and authorizing the issuance and sale of Bonds in connection therewith as outlined above and subject to the limitations and conditions set forth above shall vote “YES”, and all qualified electors opposed to levying the tax and issuing such Bonds shall vote “NO”.

Yes	[ ]
No	[ ]

3. Is there a requirement to word the ballot question in this manner?: Yes. State law outlines the requirements for the question to be asked in this manner. The conditions and restrictions section was added by the Capital Project Sales Tax Commission to explain and require that the projects must be funded in the priority order indicated in the question and to provide more detail regarding the scope of the project.

4. If the referendum passes, when will the additional one cent sales tax begin, and when would it end?: If approved by the voters, the one cent sales tax would begin May 1, 2018 and end April 30, 2024. The sales tax cannot continue past April 30, 2024 unless reauthorized by the voters at another referendum.

5. Does the additional one cent sales tax apply to all sales? (Revised 10/19/17 to add gasoline purchases to the exemption): No. The one cent sales tax would not apply to unprepared food (groceries), prescription medicines, gasoline purchases, certain maximum tax items such as automobiles, and sales of personal property otherwise exempt from State sales tax.

6. How much revenue is estimated to be generated by an additional one cent sales tax annually?: According to the South Carolina Revenue and Fiscal Affairs office, the additional one cent sales tax would generate approximately $37,421,097.00 per year. This estimate is prior to any adjustments made by the South Carolina Department of Revenue for administrative expenses.

7. How will revenue from the one cent sales tax be used?

State law requires that the one cent sales tax be used only for the projects listed on the ballot:

New Judicial Center
New Municipal Court/Police Building
New Emergency Operations Center
New Judicial Center parking garage
New City/County Government Center
New Government Center parking garage

Any remaining funds will be used for roads and bridges projects to include the then highest priority projects identified in the County’s Capital Improvement Plan after taking into account the availability of State and other funds.

8. Why is a New Judicial Center being Proposed?

According to the May 2017 report by Justice Planning Associates, Inc:

The Spartanburg County Judicial Center, which opened in 1958, is overcrowded and does not meet modern standards with respect to security or technology.
The building is unable to provide separate and secure zones for the public, prisoners, judges, jurors, and court staff. This creates a safety issue, as well as potentially compromises the integrity of the judicial process.
The building opened in 1958 with 3 courtrooms, and over time, that number has grown to 14 courtrooms. The added courtrooms are located in converted office space, with inadequate room dimensions and low ceiling heights.
The majority of problems cannot be fixed within the existing facility, regardless of the amount of money spent.
Other specific issues:
- Overcrowded public and staff spaces
- Most Courtrooms do not meet recommended standards
- Inaccessible spaces for some members of the public, including witness stands, jury boxes, and jury deliberation room toilets
- Lack of conferencing and victim waiting spaces near courtrooms
- Prisoner detention spaces do not meet modern detention standards
- Inadequate heating, ventilation, air conditioning, plumbing, and electrical systems
The buildings around the existing Judicial Center are also inadequate and cannot continue to support justice system functions. These buildings exhibit similarly poor spatial, operational, and physical conditions as the Judicial Center.
It has been recommended that the new Judicial Center remain on the existing site, and that any functions which support that building, or have a direct relationship, also be located on that site.
The building has experienced water intrusion problems in the past which the County has attempted to correct, but which are likely to continue to occur due to the building’s age and construction.

9. Why is a new City/County Government Complex being proposed?

The existing City Hall and the County Administration Building, both constructed in the early 1960s, are more than 50 years old. Both facilities were built prior to modern codes and standards. Both facilities have physical issues that impact operating requirements. Those issues include: inappropriate accessibility for mobility-impaired persons; insufficient power and data supply for modern technology; and inadequate heating, ventilation, and cooling.

The County Administration Building is a former Sears Department store, which was adapted for governmental use. Although the building has served its purpose for approximately 30 years, there are issues with respect to public service, security, and availability of natural light. The building is experiencing structural problems to include water leaks and adequate ventilation. The most overcrowded spaces are those with the highest volume of public contact, such as the Assessor, Auditor, and Treasurer. The crowded conditions can result in extended wait times and loss of confidentiality.
Nearly all components in the City Hall are suffering from some degree of overcrowding, with the Police Department and Municipal Court in particularly inadequate space. Due to differences in the nature of operations, functions such as the Police Department, Fire Department, and Municipal Court are not typically co-located with general governmental administrative functions, such as the City Council, Mayor, and Finance.

Rationale for Combining City and County Government Facilities

PUBLIC SERVICE: A City/County government center would improve public convenience and enhance wayfinding for citizens. The public cannot always differentiate between County and City government services. Residents sometimes appear at the wrong building, resulting in confusion and frustration. A shared location would provide a single visible source of government for the public. However, some non-administrative services would continue to be satellited in other buildings, such as the Development Services Building and the Community Services Building, both as a way to provide efficient delivery of services to their particular customers, and as a cost-saving measure with respect to the new government center.
SHARED OPERATIONS: A co-located government center presents opportunities to share resources, such as public lobbies, training rooms, conference facilities, health clinics, IT server rooms, storage rooms, fire stairs, mechanical/electrical spaces, public and staff toilets, snack bars, breakrooms, and other areas. Collocation can also facilitate communication and coordination among the various government functions.
SHARED COST: According to Justice Planning Associates Inc, a City/County government center would be less expensive to construct than two separate facilities, and would be less costly to operate and maintain, securely and efficiently.

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CP - Functionality Test

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1. Can I apply online?: answer here

2. Do I have to license my pets?: Answer here.

3. Where can I sign up for utilities?: Answer here

4. How do I contact a city/county department?: Visit the Staff Directory to find all department and staff contact information.

5. Where can I find the answers to my frequently asked questions?: Use the FAQs module to easily find answers to the questions you ask the most.

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Environmental Enforcement

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1. Who do I contact to report a bite or scratch by an animal?: If an individuals skin was broken, either from a bite or a scratch from any animal (any penetration of the skin by teeth constitutes a bite exposure OR the contamination of open wounds, abrasions, mucous membranes, or theoretically, scratches constitutes a non bite exposure) Contact Rabies Control at 596-3800 or 596-3415. Wash any wounds immediately. One of the most effective ways to decrease the chance for infection is to wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water. Contact your Physician for further instructions on medical treatment.

2. My neighbors pets keeps coming into my yard, what can be done about it?: Our local Animal Control Ordinance 0-12-01 section 6-18 states all pets must be kept under restraint while off the owners property in the unincorporated area of the county.
If you are having a problem with a neighbors pet, please contact our office.

3. Does the local Animal Control Ordinance restrict the number of pets a person may have?: No

4. What department would I report a dead animal to that is along or on the roadways?: Environmental Enforcement Department does not pick up any dead animals. If the animal is on a County maintained roadway, please contact County Roads and Bridges Department at 595-5320. County roadways are marked with a Cardinal on the sign.
If the animal is on a State maintained roadway please contact S.C.DOT at 587-4725.
State roads are marked with a Palm Tree on the sign.

5. What department would I contact for issues involving wildlife animals?: Please contact the Department of Natural Resources commonly known as Game Wardens or DNR Officers at 1-800-922-5431.

6. How do I contact Spartanburg City Animal Control and other surrounding Animal Control Agencies?

Spartanburg City Animal Control - (864) 582-1558

Spartanburg Humane Society- (864) 583-4805

Cherokee County Animal Control- (864) 487-8529

Greer City Animal Control- (864) 848-5363

Greenville County Animal Control- (864) 467-7595

Union County Animal Control - (864) 429-2808

7. Who do I contact about the County Adopt A Road Program?: Please call 864 596-3582 if you are interested in the Spartanburg County Adopt a Road program.(County Maintained Roads)
If you are interested in the Adopt a Highway program (State Maintained Roads) Please call (864) 587-4725.

8. What department would I contact about a roadway needing the litter removed?: For Spartanburg County maintained roadways contact the Environmental Enforcement Department. For State maintained roadways contact S.C.DOT at 587-4725.

9. What is the height requirements on weeds and grass on someone's property in order for it to be an enforceable violation?: Grass and weeds in excess of 18 inches are in violation of the International Property Maintenance Code Adopted by Spartanburg County.

10. What does our local Ordinance require for any derelict vehicle on a property. Can it be placed under a car cover or a tarp?: A derelict vehicle is defined as a motor vehicle which is partially dismantled, wrecked or incapable of self propulsion of being used in the manner for which it was not originally intended.
A motor vehicle which does not have a current motor vehicle license and on which property tax has not been paid.
These vehicle are required to brought up to code or placed in storage, which is defined as a three sided structure.

11. Does our local Ordinance address tree limbs and other natural items hanging over property boundries and creating a nuisance to neighbors?: No, our local Ordinance does not address this issue. This is a civil issue between neighbors.

12. My property was placed in noncompliance for not having electricity and water. Can I get only one service turned back on and then be in compliance with the Ordinance?: No, all violations must be corrected before a property is considered to be compliance.

13. How do I contact Spartanburg City Property Maintenance Department?: 864-596-2915

14. Does the department enforce neighborhood covenants?: We enforce International Property Maintenance Codes which was adopted by Spartanburg County and Spartanburg County Ordinances.

15. Do I need to file an appeal to gain more time?: No. You have the right to appeal, but Inspectors will work with you on the time frame as long as you are making reasonable progress.

16. What happens after the 20 day violation notice that Property Maintenance issued has expired?: The property owner or agent will be issued a summons to appear in magistrate court and will be fined.

17. What can I do if leaves from my neighbors property blows onto my property?: If an act of nature causes leaves to blow onto your property from a neighboring residence it is your responsibility to dispose of. You may NOT pick up and dump back onto a neighboring property as this would be considered illegal dumping.

18. Can an Officer issue a citation for a violation and I still remain anonymous?: All violations are criminal actions and must either be viewed by an Officer or a citizen that is willing to testify.

19. Can I throw my trash into a private dumpster even if it is not labeled private?: No

20. May I leave my trash at the recycling station after normal working hours or on holidays?: No. You must dispose of trash during normal operating hours at the recycling station.

21. Do I have to cover my trash load even if it is bagged?: No vehicle may be driven or moved on any public highway unless the vehicle is so constructed or loaded as to prevent any of its load from dropping, sifting, leaking, or otherwise escaping from the vehicle.

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Expungement

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1. What is an expungement?: An expungement is a court order that removes something from your criminal record. It is also called an Order for Destruction of Arrest Records. Law Enforcement, Prosecution agencies and Detention/Correctional facilities are not obligated to destroy records under state law; however the information is not for public dissemination.

2. How much does it cost to have a charge expunged?: Fees are determined by South Carolina law. In general, conviction fees are $250 to the Solicitor’s Office, $25 to SLED and $35 to the Clerk of Court. However, fees are not due at the time of application. If your charge(s) is eligible for expungement, you will be notified of any fees necessary to process your request. All fees must be in the form of a money order or certified cashier’s check and are non-refundable. Fees are subject to change at any time.

3. Can I get a fee waiver if I cannot afford the fees?: By law, the $250 application fee can only be waived in cases where it is determined a person has been falsely accused of a crime as a result of identity theft. A report of identity theft must be filed with a law enforcement agency and be verified with SLED through fingerprints.

4. Will a previous expungement keep me from getting one for a current charge?: All sections of law, which allow a convicted charge to be expunged, can only be used once in a lifetime. You cannot choose which convictions are to be removed. Eligibility for expungement is determined by South Carolina Laws.

5. How do I get a charge that was dismissed or not guilty in a Magistrate or Municipal court expunged?: You will need to contact the court which handled your case in order to apply for an expungement. If our office provides these services the Spartanburg County Clerk of Court charges $14.00 and the Cherokee County Clerk of Court charges $10.50 for dismissals without plea agreements.

6. How can I obtain a criminal background check?: A criminal background check can be obtained by contacting the following agency. Fees are determined by agency. http://www.sled.sc.gov/ and click on criminal background check on the left side of the page.

7. If I completed pre-trial intervention (PTI) or the Alcohol Education Program (AEP), can I get my charge(s) expunged?: Yes, you will need to contact the office that you participated in.

8. How do I know if the charge has been removed from my record?: You will receive a copy of the Expungement Order notifying you that the court has complied with the order and has notified all criminal court agencies. Each agency is responsible for destroying their record of your arrest. Do not assume that the charge has been removed until you view your criminal background check. Law enforcement, prosecution agencies and detention/correctional facilities are not obligated to destroy records under state law;
however the information is not for public dissemination. To verify the charge(s) has been removed, you will need to obtain a criminal background check from the South Carolina Law Enforcement Agency (SLED) at http://www.sled.sc.gov/

9. Can I have my traffic violations expunged?: Traffic offenses, motor vehicle offenses, and wildlife and game offense cannot be expunged. Magistrate and municipal courts are not required to expunge non-convicted traffic offenses if the defendant was not fingerprinted at the time of arrest or if the defendant was charged with a violation of Title 50 (Fish, Game and Watercraft), Title 56 (traffic) or a county or municipal ordinance. Convictions for Driving under the Influence (DUI), Driving under Suspension (DUS) or Reckless Driving are not eligible for expungement.

10. What if my charge is from a different state?: You must contact the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office/Solicitor’s Office in the State and County in which the charge occurred.

11. Why can't my conviction be expunged when it is such an old charge?: Criminal history is a permanent record and the age of the charge(s) does not determine eligibility.

12. What if the criminal record check does not show what happened to the charge?: Sometimes a criminal record will show a charge was issued against you but does not show the outcome. You can obtain the disposition from the court which heard the case. If there is not a disposition available for the charge, you will need to obtain a letter from the court or the arresting agency where you appeared stating that a disposition cannot be found.

13. What is a pardon? Where do I get information from for a pardon?: A pardon is a grant by the state that excuses a person convicted of a crime from its legal consequences. It does not erase a conviction, it just ends the penalty. For more information contact the South Carolina Department of Probation, Parole and Pardon Services at http://www.dppps.sc.gov/. OUR OFFICE DOES NOT PROCESS PARDONS.

14. Where can I find more information regarding expungement if I still have questions?: If you still have questions regarding expungement, visit http://www.sccourts.org/

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GIS

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1. How long will my request take?: Requests with the correct information and requirements take around 5 to 10 business days. Please allow 3 to 5 business days for data requests.

2. What are the requirements to process a municipal plat?: The plat must be approved by the office of the municipality before it can be recorded. Proof that sewer is available on the property of which you are planning to build. This proof can be indicated on the approved plat by showing sewer lines drawn in by the surveyor or a sewer approval letter from the water company of the municipality.

3. When or how to obtain an address for a commercial property?: Once you have gone through the commercial submittal process with Laurie Oakman in the Planning and Development Department, she will notify the GIS/Addressing Department of when it is ok to assign an address to the commercial project.

4. What is the process for requesting Custom Maps from GIS?: You will need to complete the map request form located on our GIS Website indicating size map, layers, parcel ID no, etc and submit it to GIS Staff to process the map request.

5. What is the process for requesting a new single address?: Please email the GIS Addressing Staff at GisPublic@spartanburgcounty.org In order to process the request, we will need to see a copy of your septic approval letter from DHEC or Sewer availability letter from Sewer Co. In addition, if there are any changes to the parcel (split), we will need to see a recorded Survey as well. Once we receive approval, we will check with the Building Codes Department for final approval for new structure on the property.

6. What is the process for requesting a second address on a piece of property?: You will need to go to the Planning Department and submit a Second Address Form. Upon approval from the Planning Department on Second Structure, you will need to go to DHEC and fill out a Septic Tank application. Once approval from DHEC is mailed or emailed to you, then the GIS Addressing staff can assign the second structure address.

7. What is the process for submitting addresses for new subdivisions?: You will need to submit a new Subdivision to the Planning Department. Once the Subdivision has met all approvals from the Planning Department, they will send the final Subdivision Survey to the GIS/Addressing Department for individual lot addresses and road name approvals. Requests may take up to two weeks depending on how many lots and roads are submitted

8. What is the process for Naming and Renaming Roads?: Please reference this link.

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Homestead Exemption

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1. What is the Benefit?: In 2007, the SC Legislature passed legislation that completely exempts from your tax bill all taxes levied for school operating purposes on the value of your legal resident. The Homestead Exemption credit continues to completely exempt the value of $50,000 for all purposes except for school operating purposes (Already exempted by the new 2007 Legislation).

2. Do I qualify for the Homestead Exemption?: You may qualify if you are…..
Age 65 on or before December 31, preceding the tax year in which you wish to claim the
exemption
Totally and permanently disabled
Legally blind
The surviving spouse of qualifying applicant

3. How do I apply for the Homestead Exemption?: Application may be made at any time of the year, at the office of Spartanburg County Auditor, 366 North Church Street, Suite 200, Spartanburg, S.C. 29303. Office hours are from 8:30 until 5:00
Monday through Friday.

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Hospitality Tax

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1. What is the Local Hospitality Tax?: A Local Hospitality Tax is a tax, not to exceed two percent, on the sale of prepared meals
and beverages sold in establishments. The tax is authorized in Article 7 of Chapter 1 of
Title 6 of the Code of Laws of South Carolina, 1976, as amended, generally referred to as
the “Local Hospitality Tax Act”. Spartanburg County Council has imposed a two percent
(2%) Local Hospitality Tax to provide a dedicated source of revenue and an appropriate
and efficient means of funding tourist-related infrastructure and capital improvement
projects. It is the Council’s intent to enhance the County’s appeal to tourists through
further development of the County as a destination for tourist related activities.

2. What is considered a prepared meal?: A prepared meal is any food and /or beverage, inclusive of alcoholic beverages, beer and
wine, prepared or modified by an establishment, which at the time of sale is ready for
consumption.

3. Who is responsible for collecting and remitting the Local Hospitality Tax?: Restaurants, bars and lounges, private clubs, hotels and motels, caterers, grocery stores,
convenience stores and other food establishments are responsible for collecting this tax
from patrons and are required to remit such collections to the local government. Failure
to collect taxes does not relieve any business from making the required remittances to the
local government.

4. How should the tax be remitted?: The Local Hospitality Tax Act requires that taxes be remitted to Spartanburg County on a
Monthly basis when the estimated amount of average tax is more than fifty ($50.00)
dollars a month, on a Quarterly basis when the estimated amount is twenty-five ($25) to
fifty ($50) dollars a month and Annually when the estimated amount of average tax is
less than twenty-five ($25) dollars a month.

5. When will the Hospitality Fee/Tax go into effect and when will my first remittance be due?: Spartanburg County’s two percent (2%) Local Hospitality Tax is effective on January 1,
2008. The deadline for remittance of the first month’s collections will be 5:00 p.m. on
the 20th of February 2008.

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Invest Spartanburg

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1. What was the bond referendum and when did it take place?

On Nov. 7, 2017 Spartanburg County voters approved through referendum a special one percent sales tax to be imposed in Spartanburg County for 6 years to raise the amounts specified for the following purposes.

Priority No.	Project Description	Cost
1	Replacement of current City of Spartanburg and Spartanburg County judicial facilities (to include a new Spartanburg County Courthouse, City of Spartanburg municipal court/police facilities, Spartanburg County emergency operations center (currently located in the basement of the County Courthouse), and associated parking and infrastructure, in one or more structures)	$ 151,519,154
2	Replacement of current City of Spartanburg City Hall and Spartanburg County Administrative Building (to include new joint use government center facilities to serve both the City of Spartanburg and Spartanburg County, and associated parking and infrastructure, in one or more structures)	65,326,428
3	Road and Bridge Projects (to include the then highest priority projects identified in the County’s Capital Improvement Plan after taking into account the availability of State and other funds)	7,554,418

	Total	$ 224,400,000

On Nov. 7, Spartanburg County voters approved through referendum a special one percent sales tax to be imposed in Spartanburg County for 6 years to raise the amounts specified for the following purposes.

PROJECTS:

Priority #1:

Replacement of current City of Spartanburg and Spartanburg County judicial facilities
(to include a new Spartanburg County Courthouse, City of Spartanburg municipal court/police facilities, Spartanburg County emergency operations center (currently located in the basement of the County Courthouse), and associated parking and infrastructure, in one or more structures)
Cost: 151,519,154

Priority #2:

Replacement of current City of Spartanburg City Hall and Spartanburg County Administrative Building
(to include new joint use government center facilities to serve both the City of Spartanburg and Spartanburg County, and associated parking and infrastructure, in one or more structures)
Cost: $65,326,428

Priority #3:

Road and Bridge Projects
(to include the then highest priority projects identified in the County’s Capital Improvement Plan after taking into account the availability of State and other funds)
Cost: $7,554,418

Total: $224,400,000

2. Now that the referendum has passed, when will the additional one cent sales tax begin, and when does it end?: The one cent sales tax will begin May 1, 2018 and end April 30, 2024. The sales tax cannot continue past April 30, 2024 unless reauthorized by the voters at another referendum.

3. Does the additional one cent sales tax apply to all sales?: No. The one cent sales tax would not apply to unprepared food (groceries), prescription medicines, gasoline purchases, certain maximum tax items such as automobiles, and sales of personal property otherwise exempt from State sales tax.

4. How much revenue is estimated to be generated by an additional one cent sales tax annually?: According to the South Carolina Revenue and Fiscal Affairs office, the additional one cent sales tax will generate approximately $37,421,097.00 per year. This estimate is prior to any adjustments made by the South Carolina Department of Revenue for administrative expenses.

5. How will revenue from the one cent sales tax be used?

State law requires that the one cent sales tax be used only for the projects listed on the ballot:

New Judicial Center
New Municipal Court/Police Building
New Emergency Operations Center
New Judicial Center parking garage
New City/County Government Center
New Government Center parking garage

6. Why do we need a New Judicial Center?

According to the May 2017 report by Justice Planning Associates, Inc:

The Spartanburg County Judicial Center, which opened in 1958, is overcrowded and does not meet modern standards with respect to security or technology.
The building is unable to provide separate and secure zones for the public, prisoners, judges, jurors, and court staff. This creates a safety issue, as well as potentially compromises the integrity of the judicial process.
The building opened in 1958 with 3 courtrooms, and over time, that number has grown to 14 courtrooms. The added courtrooms are located in converted office space, with inadequate room dimensions and low ceiling heights.
The majority of problems cannot be fixed within the existing facility, regardless of the amount of money spent.
Other specific issues:
- Overcrowded public and staff spaces
- Most Courtrooms do not meet recommended standards
- Inaccessible spaces for some members of the public, including witness stands, jury boxes, and jury deliberation room toilets
- Lack of conferencing and victim waiting spaces near courtrooms
- Prisoner detention spaces do not meet modern detention standards
- Inadequate heating, ventilation, air conditioning, plumbing, and electrical systems
The buildings around the existing Judicial Center are also inadequate and cannot continue to support justice system functions. These buildings exhibit similarly poor spatial, operational, and physical conditions as the Judicial Center.
It has been recommended that the new Judicial Center remain on the existing site, and that any functions which support that building, or have a direct relationship, also be located on that site.
The building has experienced water intrusion problems in the past which the County has attempted to correct, but which are likely to continue to occur due to the building’s age and construction.

7. Why do we need a new City/County Government Complex?

The County Administration Building is a former Sears Department store, which was adapted for governmental use. Although the building has served its purpose for approximately 30 years, there are issues with respect to public service, security, and availability of natural light. The building is experiencing structural problems to include water leaks and adequate ventilation. The most overcrowded spaces are those with the highest volume of public contact, such as the Assessor, Auditor, and Treasurer. The crowded conditions can result in extended wait times and loss of confidentiality.
Nearly all components in the City Hall are suffering from some degree of overcrowding, with the Police Department and Municipal Court in particularly inadequate space. Due to differences in the nature of operations, functions such as the Police Department, Fire Department, and Municipal Court are not typically co-located with general governmental administrative functions, such as the City Council, Mayor, and Finance.

8. Why combine City and County Government facilities?

PUBLIC SERVICE: A City/County government center will improve public convenience and enhance wayfinding for citizens. The public cannot always differentiate between County and City government services. Residents sometimes appear at the wrong building, resulting in confusion and frustration. A shared location would provide a single visible source of government for the public. However, some non-administrative services will continue to be satellited in other buildings, such as the Development Services Building and the Community Services Building, both as a way to provide efficient delivery of services to their particular customers, and as a cost-saving measure with respect to the new government center.
SHARED OPERATIONS: A co-located government center presents opportunities to share resources, such as public lobbies, training rooms, conference facilities, health clinics, IT server rooms, storage rooms, fire stairs, mechanical/electrical spaces, public and staff toilets, snack bars, breakrooms, and other areas. Collocation can also facilitate communication and coordination among the various government functions.
SHARED COST: According to Justice Planning Associates Inc, a City/County government center would be less expensive to construct than two separate facilities, and would be less costly to operate and maintain, securely and efficiently.

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Master-In-Equity

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1. What is a Master-in-Equity?: A Master-in-Equity is a judge who has the power to decide certain cases without a jury. A Master-in-Equity typically handles cases involving real estate, such as foreclosures, partitions, and contracts. However, a Master-in-Equity may hear any matter referred to him or her by the Circuit Court. See S.C. Code Ann. § 14-11-10 et seq. and Rule 53 of the South Carolina Rules of Civil Procedure.
To determine if your county has a Master-in-Equity, please see the South
Carolina Judicial Department’s website.

2. What is a Special Referee?: In counties that do not have a Master-in-Equity, the Court may appoint an attorney to serve as a judge for foreclosure cases. This individual is known as a Special Referee.
See S.C. Code Ann. § 14-11-60.

3. What is a note?: When you borrow money from a lender, you sign a note with the lender promising to pay the money back. The note gives the lender the right to collect payment on the loan if you do not repay the loan. A note is a legal document that typically states the loan amount, the interest rate, the time and method of repayment, and the obligation to repay.

4. What is a mortgage?: When you borrow money from a lender to purchase a home or land, the lender usually requires that you give it a mortgage on the property. A mortgage is a security agreement between you and the lender where your home or land serves as collateral for the loan.

5. What is a real estate foreclosure?: A real estate foreclosure is the legal action the lender files with the court asking the court to sell the property to satisfy the debt.

6. Has a foreclosure been filed against me?

I. A foreclosure is a lawsuit that must be filed in the courthouse and you must be properly served. There are a variety of ways that you can be served with legal papers. Some of the common ways to serve legal papers include:

(1) Personal delivery by the Sheriff’s Department;
(2) Personal delivery by a private process server;
(3) U.S. mail; and
(4) Publication (announcing the lawsuit in a specific newspaper).

II. You may also contact the Clerk of Court's office in the county where the property is located to find out if a foreclosure action has been filed against you by the lender. A list of all of the Clerks of Court and their contact information can be found on the Judicial Department’s
website.

III. If you are not sure if you have been sued in foreclosure, you may also contact your mortgage servicing company directly to find out if your lender has filed a foreclosure action against you.

7. Can I represent myself in a Foreclosure Action?: Yes, you can represent yourself in court.
NOTE: You cannot represent anyone else, even if you hold their Power of Attorney or are the appointed Personal Representative.

8. Can I represent my business in a Foreclosure Action?: No, a business entity such as a corporation, homeowners association, or limited liability company ("LLC") MUST by represented by an attorney in circuit court or in the appellate courts of South Carolina.

9. If I decide to represent myself in court, will the judge make me follow the same rules as an attorney in the courtroom?: Yes. Under South Carolina law you are held to the same standards of compliance and understanding of court rules and procedures as an attorney. The judge and the judge’s staff cannot help you try your case. The Clerk of Court cannot help you, other than to provide scheduling information.
If you decide to represent yourself in court, you must follow the South Carolina Rules of Civil Procedure. A link to the court rules can be found on the Judicial Department’s website. In addition, you may want to check your county’s court website for additional information.

10. What should I expect on the day of my hearing?

I. Study your hearing notice carefully to determine why you are coming to court. There are many different types of hearings. You may be going to court for a motion hearing or a final merits hearing or trial.

II. A motion hearing is normally a time where the judge will hear from the parties who have an interest in the case. The judge usually does not allow testimony during this type of hearing.

III. During a final merits hearing or trial, you will be able to testify and call witnesses (if you want).

IV. On the day of any court hearing or trial, arrive about fifteen (15) minutes early to find the courtroom. You can check with the Clerk of Court’s office or ask a bailiff or deputy for directions to the courtroom.

V. If you plan to show the court any papers, pictures, or other evidence, bring copies for the judge and all parties and attorneys involved in the case.

VI. When you enter the courtroom, sit in the audience section until your hearing is called.

VII. More than one case or trial may be scheduled that day. You may have to wait until your hearing is called.

VIII. Once your hearing is called, come to the front and sit at one of the two tables facing the judge.

IX. The judge will explain how the hearing or trial will be conducted.

X. Each party will have a chance to speak and ask questions. Be polite. If the judge interrupts you while you are speaking, don’t argue. It is likely that the judge either needs something explained, the matter has already been covered, or the judge determines that your statement is not important to the case.

XI. The judge will let you know when it is your turn to give evidence or to cross examine witnesses. If an objection is made to evidence or testimony, remember that only one person can speak at a time.

NOTE: If you have not answered the Complaint, you may not have the right to testify or call witnesses.

XII. At the end of the hearing or trial, the judge will either:
(1) Rule on your case and ask one of the parties to draft a proposed order; or
(2) Ask each party to give him or her a written memorandum about the law and facts.

XIII. The judge must decide the case based on the evidence and the law.

11. What do I say in court?

I. When you appear in court, listen carefully to the judge. Ask the judge’s permission before you speak.

II. You must stand when speaking to the judge, unless you are physically unable to or the judge allows you to remain seated.

III. When you speak to the judge, start by saying "Your Honor." Always speak directly to the judge, and speak loudly and clearly.

IV. Do not speak while other people are talking in court except when you want to object.

V. Do not shake your head or sigh loudly when you do not like what somebody else says. You will have your chance to talk.

VI. When it’s your turn to talk, stay calm and control your emotions as much as possible.

VII. Talk loudly enough for everyone to hear you. Remember the court reporter is making a written record of what you say, or the court’s recording device needs to pick up your voice.

VIII. Do not use slang terms such as “yeah” and “uh huh” because the court reporter and judge may have trouble interpreting what you mean.

IX. Don’t yell, make threatening gestures, or curse.

12. Are there any additional things I need to know before I appear in court?

I. Don’t wear a hat or head covering in the courtroom, unless for religious or medical reasons.

II. Don’t drink, eat, smoke, or chew gum while in the courtroom.

III. Do not wear heavy colognes or perfumes.

IV. Don’t bring drugs or alcohol into the courthouse. Don’t use drugs or alcohol before you come to court (unless medically prescribed).

V. Don’t bring guns, knives, or any other kind of weapon to court with you. Please note that there are metal detectors at the courthouses and deputies will search you and your bags when
you go through the security check-point.

VI. Don’t bring your cell phone or electronic devices such as blackberries, iPods, and MP3 players to court. Most counties ban them in court and will hold them in a room while you are in court. If you are allowed to bring your cell phone to court, turn it off before you walk into the courtroom. If your phone rings, vibrates, or disturbs the proceedings, court officials may take your device and you may have to pay a fine.

VII. Arrive on time.

VIII. Whenever possible, arrange for childcare prior to coming to court.

IX. Encourage all witnesses to arrive early for the hearing.

X. Stand up when the judge enters or leaves the room and remain standing until the judge leaves or says you can sit down.

XI. Because each county is different, make sure you follow any additional rules specific to that court.

13. How can an attorney help me through the foreclosure process?

If you have been served with a Foreclosure Summons and Complaint or Notice of Foreclosure Intervention, it is very important to talk to a licensed South Carolina attorney. A licensed South Carolina attorney who practices in this area of law should be able to:

(a) Help you understand the foreclosure process;
(b) Identify any defenses to foreclosure;
(c) Assist you with loss mitigation (the process banks use to try to minimize their losses) or
settlement efforts;
(d) Counsel you about other options; and
(e) Help you talk with your lender and its attorney.

To find an attorney who can help you with this type of case, you can call the South Carolina Bar's Lawyer Referral Service (LRS) at 1-800-868-2284 (toll free) or South Carolina Legal Services at 1-888-346-5592 (toll free).

NOTE: If you need legal advice, you must talk with an attorney. The court, court staff, clerk of court, and the lender's attorney cannot give you legal advice.
free).

14. How do I get an attorney if I cannot afford one?: A foreclosure action is a civil action (not a criminal action) so you do not have a constitutional right to free legal aid. However, if you cannot afford an attorney, you may contact the South Carolina Legal Aid Telephone Intake Service (LATIS) at 1-888-346-5592 (toll free) or 1-803-744-9430 (Columbia area) to see if you qualify for free legal services.

15. I was just served with a Foreclosure Summons and Complaint. Now what?: If you plan to talk with an attorney, it is important to do so as soon as possible. You only have 30 days to answer or respond to the Complaint. If you do not respond in writing to the Foreclosure Summons and Complaint within 30 days, you could lose your ability to tell your side of the story and be held in default. Default means that the allegations raised by the other side in the Complaint are admitted as true and accurate. See Rule 12(a) of the South Carolina Rules of Civil Procedure.
NOTE: Calling the lender or the lender’s attorney does not answer the Complaint.

16. Why are there other Defendants named in my foreclosure lawsuit?: The lender believes these additional defendants have an interest in the property for a number of legal reasons. For example, the other defendants may have a court judgment against you or co-own the land with you.

17. Do I need to answer the Foreclosure Summons and Complaint in writing if my lender and I are in the process of settlement?

Yes, you need to respond to the Foreclosure Summons and Complaint IN WRITING in order to protect yourself in court. The fact that you and your lender or their attorney are trying to work things out does not mean that the foreclosure action has stopped.

You should file your original response or answer with the Clerk of Court’s office. You should mail a copy to all parties and all attorneys involved in the case. You should also keep a copy of the answer and bring it with you every time you come to court.

NOTE: You only have 30 days to answer or respond to the original Complaint. If you do not respond in writing within 30 days, you could lose your ability to tell your side of the story and be held in default. Default means that the claims raised by the other side in the Complaint are admitted by you. This means you could lose your right to fully defend yourself in court. See Rule 12(a) of the South Carolina Rules of Civil Procedure.

18. What is Foreclosure Intervention?

On May 2, 2011, the South Carolina Supreme Court issued an Administrative Order creating a foreclosure intervention process. Foreclosure intervention is a South Carolina process to ensure that lenders and eligible homeowners have an opportunity for meaningful discussion about possible settlement options. Settlement options may include a loan modification, short sale, deed in lieu of foreclosure, etc.

To read this Administrative Order, see the Judicial Department’s website:
Administrative Order Re: Mortgage Foreclosure Actions, 2011-05-02-01 (May 2, 2011).

NOTE: If you are an eligible homeowner and your case was filed on or before May 9, 2011, you will be mailed a Notice of Foreclosure Intervention.

If your case was filed after May 10, 2011, the Notice of Foreclosure Intervention will be served with the Summons and Complaint.

19. How do I know if my loan qualifies for Foreclosure Intervention?

Your loan may qualify for foreclosure intervention if you:

1) Live in your home and it is not a vacation home or investment property; and
2) Meet the other qualifications listed in the Administrative Order:
Administrative Order Re: Mortgage Foreclosure Actions, 2011-05-02-01 (May 2, 2011).

You can ask an attorney for advice about whether your loan qualifies for foreclosure intervention.

NOTE: You should still answer the Foreclosure Summons and Complaint in writing even if you think your loan may qualify for foreclosure intervention. If you ignore the court action, you may lose your home even if you are talking with your lender.

NOTE: Foreclosure Intervention does not guarantee that you will be offered a loan modification or other settlement option.

20. How does the foreclosure process work in South Carolina?

The basic residential foreclosure process is as follows:

1. The lender’s attorney receives a request from its client to file a foreclosure action.

2. The lender’s attorney will do a title search. This is when a county’s records are checked to see who owns the property and if there are any liens. This search will help the attorney find
all of the parties who need to be included in the case (including property owners, mortgage holders, lien holders, etc.).

3. If the lender’s attorney files a foreclosure action for its client, the attorney prepares a Lis Pendens, Summons, and Complaint.
See S.C. Code Ann. § 15-11-10.
Lis pendens is a Latin word meaning “suit pending.” A lis pendens is a document that tells anyone who checks title to the property that a lawsuit has been filed concerning a piece of
property. A lis pendens alerts anyone who may want to buy the property, a lender, or the public that the property’s title is in question.

4. For cases filed before May 9, 2011, a Notice of Foreclosure Intervention is filed and mailed to the eligible parties For cases filed after May 10, 2011, the attorney will also prepare a Notice of Foreclose Intervention to be served along with the Lis Pendens, Summons, and Complaint. See
Administrative Order Re: Mortgage Foreclosure Actions, 2011-05-02-01 (May 2, 2011).

5. The Defendants have 30 days under the South Carolina Rules of Civil Procedure to serve and file a response to the Complaint and the Notice of Foreclosure Intervention. See Rule 12 of the South Carolina Rules of Procedure.

6. If you file a response, you will have an opportunity to present your position at a hearing. If you fail to respond in writing to the Complaint, the Plaintiff’s attorney may request a final merits
hearing or trial.

7. Plaintiff’s attorney or the court sends a notice of the final merits hearing or trial to all Defendants.

8. At the final hearing, the judge will hear from all parties who are present. If the lender proves its case, then the judge will:

a) Establish the debt owed;
b) Address any other allegations in the pleadings; and
c) Set a date for the property to be sold in an effort to satisfy the debt. For more information
about the sale process, please review the following South Carolina law: S.C. Code Ann.
§ 15-39-610 et seq.

21. What is the Home Affordable Modification Program (also known as HMP or HAMP), and why is it important to the South Carolina foreclosure process?

The Home Affordable Modification Program (HMP) is a federal law that makes certain lenders, servicers, and investors give eligible borrowers a chance to modify their loan. Not every loan is eligible for HMP. To determine if your loan is eligible, please review the following website carefully: Home Affordable Modification Program.

You may also speak with an attorney to see if your loan qualifies for HMP modification.

The South Carolina Supreme Court requires lenders to determine if the loan is subject to HMP before filing the lawsuit. To read the South Carolina Supreme Court’s Order, see the Judicial Department’s website:
Administrative Order Re: Mortgage Foreclosures and the Home Affordable Modification Program (HMP), 2009-05-22-01 (May 22, 2009).

22. What are some things I can do to prevent foreclosure?

I. Hire a licensed, South Carolina attorney if you can.

II. Stay in contact with your lender and their attorney. It is important to note that lenders and their attorneys can only discuss the loan account with the authorized person. This includes the person who signed the note, their personal representative, or someone with written authorization.

III. If you are interested in trying to settle your case, talk with an attorney, or contact your lender’s attorney to learn about any settlement options.

IV. Remember to be patient. Do not give up. It may take a long time to get all the paperwork right and to make it through this process.

NOTE: The foreclosure action will not stop while you are discussing settlement choices with your lender, unless you are taking part in the foreclosure intervention process established by the court.

23. How long can I stay in my home if a foreclosure action has been filed against me and I cannot afford the payments?: If you are the owner of the property and a foreclosure action has been filed against you, you own your home and may stay there until it is sold at a foreclosure sale and the Master-in-Equity issues a deed to the successful buyer.
NOTE: If you decide to leave your home either during or after the foreclosure action, you should tell the lender's attorney and the court. You may give them your new address so the Court can contact you in case the property sells for more than the debt and you are owed money.

24. I am a tenant with a lease living in a home in foreclosure, what are my rights?

As a tenant you may have rights under federal law that could allow you to stay in your home for a period of time.

You may ask the Master-in-Equity or Special Referee for an explanation of these rights at the hearing or trial.

See "Protecting Tenants at Foreclosure Act of 2009" for more information.

25. Should I contact the lender's attorney?

It is always a good idea for you, your attorney, or an authorized party to stay in contact with the lender's attorney. This is the best way to try to reach a settlement. Keep in mind that the lender's attorney cannot give you any legal advice or let you know what the next step in your case will be.

You need to hire an attorney to receive legal advice. If you cannot afford an attorney, you may be eligible for free legal aid.

NOTE: You should send a copy of any papers you file with the Clerk of Court to all parties and all attorneys in the case.

26. Should I attend the hearing or trial?: Yes. You should go to the hearing. This is the time when you can tell your side of the story and ask questions. If you do not go to the hearing, you will not have the chance to tell your side of the story to the court.

27. Do I need to move out of my home on the day of my foreclosure hearing?: No. The foreclosure hearing or trial is when the judge will hear the facts of the case.
The judge may find you owe the debt and set a sale date at the foreclosure hearing or trial. See Rule 71 of the South Carolina Rules of Civil Procedure. The sale date is when the property will be auctioned off at a public sale to the highest bidder. Your home will be advertised in your local
paper for three weeks as required by law. The sale will be at a public auction as ordered by the court. Check with the Clerk of Court to see when it is done in your county.

28. Can I attend the foreclosure sale?: A foreclosure sale is a public auction and anyone (including you) may go and bid on any property up for sale. If you plan to bid on a property at a foreclosure auction, you should make sure you understand the bidding requirements. Those requirements are listed in the Judgment Order and also in the Notice of Sale.

29. When are foreclosure sales held?: It is best to check with the Clerk of Court in the county where the property is located and review the Judgment Order and Notice of Sale
NOTE: Many county websites have Master-in-Equity links that list foreclosure sales. Check the county website for more details.

30. If the Court sells my house at a foreclosure sale, could I still owe the lender money?: Maybe. After a foreclosure sale if the debt is not paid in full, the lender may get a deficiency judgment against the person or persons who signed the note.
A deficiency judgment is the difference between what the property sold for at the foreclosure sale and what you owe. For example, if you owe the bank $100,000 and the house sells for $50,000, the deficiency judgment is equal to $50,000. See S.C. Code Ann. § 15-39-610 et seq. and S.C. Code Ann. § 29-3-660.

31. What if my home sells for less than I owe?

If you owe more on your mortgage than your home sells for at a foreclosure sale, the lender may ask for deficiency judgment against you, unless it specifically waived that right in writing prior to the sale. A deficiency judgment is also known as a personal judgment.

A deficiency judgment is the difference between what the property sold for at the foreclosure sale and what you owe. For example, if you owe the bank $100,000 and the house sells for $50,000, the deficiency judgment is equal to $50,000. See S.C. Code Ann. § 15-39-610 et seq. and S.C. Code Ann. § 29-3-660.

NOTE: If you decide to leave your home either during or after the foreclosure action, you should tell the lender’s attorney and the court. You may give them your new address so the Court can contact you in case the property sells for more than the debt and you are owed money.

32. The judge told me at the hearing that a deficiency has been demanded. What does this mean?: This means that a personal judgment may be entered against you for the difference in what the property sells for and what you actually owe the lender. See S.C. Code Ann. § 15-39-610 et seq. and S.C. Code Ann. § 29-3-660. The lender may try and get the additional money from you.

33. The judge told me at the hearing that the lender is waiving its right to a deficiency judgment against me. What does this mean?: This means that the lender has given up its right to collect a money judgment against you if the property sells for less than what you owe the lender at the foreclosure sale.

34. Can I challenge a deficiency judgment?: Yes, you may challenge the deficiency judgment. See S.C. Code Ann. §29-3-680 et seq.

35. What if my home sells for more than I owe?: The extra money is called surplus funds. The Court may set a hearing to decide who is entitled to the money. See Rule 71(c), South Carolina Rules of Civil Procedure.

36. Do I have the right to contact the judge or his staff to discuss my case?: No. The judge and his staff cannot talk with you about your case without the other side being there. The only time the parties will be able to communicate with the judge is through their written papers, or at a status conference, hearing, or trial.

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MIE Administrative Order

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1. What is the purpose of the Order?: The main purpose of Chief Justice’s Order is to insure communication between the mortgagor (debtor) and the mortgagee (lender) during the foreclosure process so that any and options relating to refinancing, modification or programs can be explored.

2. What parties are subject to the Order?: 1. Mortgagor is every owner, mortgagor and debtor under the note and mortgage being foreclosed.
2. Mortgagee is the owner and holder of the note and mortgage, servicer or any other party seeking to foreclose the mortgage.

3. What property is subject to the Order?: The Order applies only to OWNER-OCCUPIED DWELLINGS.

4. When does the Order take effect?: 1. Actions pending on May 9, 2011.
a. If the case has had a final hearing on the merits and not gone to foreclosure sale,
the case is subject to Paragraphs B (1) (a) through (e) of the Order.
b. If the case has not had a final hearing on the merits, the case is subject to Paragraphs B
(1) (a) through (e) of the Order.
c. The properties sold on May 2, 2011 and the re-bids from the May 2, 2011 sale are not
subject to the Order and may proceed.
2. Actions filed after May 9, 2011.
a. The foreclosure actions must comply with Paragraphs B(1) (a) through (e) and Paragraph
B(2)of the Order.

5. What happens if agreement is reached between the mortgagor and mortgagee?

1. In the event and agreement is reached it shall be but in writing and served on all parties to the action.

2. If an agreement is reached, the action will be stayed for 90 days following the entry of the
agreement.

3. If the mortgagor (debtor) fails to comply with the terms of the agreement before the
expiration of the 90 days, the lender shall file and “Notice of Breach of Agreement” after
which the foreclosure action may continue.

4. If the mortgagor is in compliance with the agreement after the 90 days, the lender shall
promptly file the notice of dismissal without prejudice. and serve the notice on all parties.

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Pre-Trial Intervention

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1. How long will it take before I know if my case has been accepted into PTI?: On average, it takes between four and six weeks to get a case accepted into the program. However, that time can vary depending on several factors, including the number of charges, the number of victims and whether or not there is any restitution that will be owed. Generally, the more charges you have and the more victims who are involved, the longer it takes to get a case accepted.

2. Will you call me or send a letter?: We will send a letter to the mailing address you provided when you applied to the program. The letter will tell you if your case was accepted or rejected. If accepted, you will have 5 days to contact your case manager to set up your initial appointment. If you fail to show for your initial appointment your case will be returned to court for prosecution. It is very important for you to notify us if you change your address after you have applied to the program.

3. When do I have to pay the $250 program fee?: A program fee of $125.00 will be due at your initial appointment and the remaining $125.00 will be due 30 days from the initial appointment. We recommend that you do not wait until you receive your acceptance letter to start setting aside money for this fee. You should begin preparing to pay this fee immediately after you apply to the program. We only accept money orders or certified cashier’s checks.

4. If my application for PTI is rejected, what happens next?: If you receive a letter stating that your PTI application has been rejected, you are responsible for contacting the court where your charge originated to find out your new court date. If you have a magistrate or municipal charge, the name of the court is listed on your ticket under the heading of trial officer. If you have a General Sessions charge, you may call the Solicitor’s Office at 864-596-2575.

5. If I pay my $100 application fee and then my case is rejected because of some prior convictions or because I have been through PTI before, can I get my money back?: The application fee is non-refundable. Before we accept any money from a defendant, we ask detailed questions about any possible prior convictions or prior PTI participation. If you are unsure about your prior criminal history, we ask that you conduct your own background check before paying the application fee.

6. I applied to PTI and paid my application fee, do I have to appear in court?: You must attend your court date (s) until you have been accepted into PTI. The PTI office cannot excuse you from any court dates. You will need to appear for your court date and take a copy of your PTI application fee receipt to show that you have applied to the program.

7. I applied to PTI in Spartanburg County, but I just got a new job in another county/state. Can I transfer my PTI case?: We do not transfer cases; however we can make arrangements to handle them long-distance. If you live out of the county/state, please contact your PTI intake counselor and provide him/her with your new address and telephone number.

8. If I am accepted in the program, what will I be required to do?: Program requirements vary based on your charge(s), but generally, participants are required to complete community service work, attend counseling/education, attend a prison presentation, take random drug screens, pay restitution and attend case management appointments. Your specific program requirements will be given to you at your first appointment with your counselor. Counseling is a separate cost from PTI fees. Click Here for a Table Detailing Costs

9. What happens after I complete all of my program requirements?: Once you complete your requirements a new background check will be performed and if there have been no new arrests, we will submit your case to the courts for dismissal. Upon dismissal of your charges you will be eligible to apply for an expungement to remove from public record (s) for an additional fee.

10. Does the expungement really destroy all of my information?: The expungement order will be mailed to the respective criminal agencies to remove any records related to that charge; it is the responsibility of each agency in the removing of its records. This process can take up to 10 -12 weeks. Unfortunately we are not able to expunge media related info or data off the internet. Law enforcement, prosecution agencies and detention/correctional facilities are not obligated to destroy records under state law; however the
information is not for public dissemination.

11. How long do I have to pay for my expungement?: There is no time frame on paying for your expungement; however please note that your background record will reflect the arrest charge along with dismissal date until the expungement process is completed. Expungement payments must be made in full, no payment arrangements.

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Public Defender

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1. What is a Public Defender?: A Public Defender is a lawyer provided by the Public Defender’s Office to represent indigent persons charged with criminal offenses.

2. Are Public Defenders real attorneys?: Yes. All Public Defenders are licensed attorneys who have completed law school and are admitted to the South Carolina Bar.

3. Can I obtain a public defender to file for divorce, arrange child support, or solve landlord/tenant problems?: No. The Public Defender’s Office only represents people in criminal matters, including felonies, misdemeanors and juvenile court.

4. How do I obtain the services of a Public Defender?: The Public Defender’s Office can only represent people who qualify. A person’s eligibility will be determined based on household income and assets. To see if you qualify, you must visit our office and speak with one of our personnel. If you qualify, you will then be set up for an interview with one of our investigators who must obtain important information from you. You will then be assigned to a public defender.

5. What do I need to bring with me to the Public Defender’s Office at the time of my qualification/interview?: It is not necessary, but it would be helpful if you bring any warrants/tickets and any notifications of court dates with you when you visit the Public Defender’s Office.

6. If I am in jail, how do I contact the Public Defender’s Office?: A representative from the Public Defender’s Office regularly visits the local jail to complete the application process.

7. I’m thinking about hiring a private attorney to represent me. I don’t need a public defender, do I?: If you are considering hiring a private attorney, but have not done so yet, you should go ahead and apply to the Public Defender’s Office to see if you qualify. If you hire a private attorney later, he or she can pick up your case and receive your file from the Public Defender’s Office. The important thing is that you should be represented by a private attorney or public defender as soon as possible.

8. How can I help my Public Defender?: Do not speak with anyone, including the police, about your case except your Public Defender attorney. Stay in touch with your assigned attorney and make sure you notify the office of any changes to your address and telephone number. If we do not have your correct information, we will not able to contact you when needed.

9. Will the Public Defender’s Office expunge my record?: No, the Public Defender’s Office does not expunge records. You would need to contact a private attorney or the Solicitor’s Office for this service.

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Public Works Engineering

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1. What is CFunds?: $2.66 of the gas tax is returned to the Spartanburg County Delegation for construction of roads, bridges and traffic safety

2. How can I determine if my property is in a Special Flood Hazard Area?: FEMA publishes maps indicating a community's flood hazard areas and the degree of risk in those areas. Flood insurance maps are on file at Spartanburg County Engineering. A property owner may consult these maps as a first step in determining if the property is in a special flood hazard area (SFHA). For a specific determination, Spartanburg County residents should contact the County Engineer at (864-595-5336) to determine if property located in the unincorporated areas of the County is within the 1% SFHA. You will need to provide a tax parcel number and may request the information in person or by fax, email or regular mail.
In addition, maps may be viewed online by accessing the "Flood Maps" link on the FEMA Website

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Public Works Recycling

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1. What do I do with paint, compact fluorescent bulbs, batteries, hazardous products, medications, or syringes?

~All staffed recycling centers offer a paint exchange where residents may drop off or pick up paint during our open hours.

~CFL bulbs may be taken to Lowe's or Home Depot for recycling, or can be brought to our annual Household Hazardous Waste Collection Event. Please call 864-949-1658 for information on how to properly dispose of fluorescent tubes.

~Spartanburg County ONLY accepts lead-acid batteries for recycling. We do not accept any other type of battery for recycling in our program. Alkaline batteries may be disposed of with regular household trash or brought to our annual Household Hazardous Waste Collection Event; all other types (NiCd, lithium, lithium-ion, etc.) may be taken to Lowe's, Home Depot, Best Buy, Batteries Plus, or Cleanlites or brought to our annual Household Hazardous Waste Collection Event.

~Residents may dispose of household hazardous waste at our annual HHW collection event in the spring of each year. For more information on household hazardous waste disposal, please call us at 864-949-1658.

~Medications may be disposed of at the Spartanburg County Sheriff's Department or at semi-annual prescription take-back events. They are not accepted at the annual Household Hazardous Waste Collection Event. For syringes, please place in a plastic jug (like a laundry detergent or bleach jug), tightly screw on the lid, mark the jug "contains syringes" and dispose of with household trash. Please do not dispose of loose syringes in bags. Check out SC-DHEC for more info: http://www.scdhec.gov/HomeAndEnvironment/Recycling/DisposingofNeedles/.

Safe Disposal Upstate

2. How do I dispose of large items like furniture, mattresses, wood, carpeting, construction materials, etc.?: All furniture and construction materials must be brought to the Wellford Landfill, located at 595 Little Mountain Rd. Wellford, SC 29385. We are open Monday through Saturday from 7 AM until 4:30 PM. We also can accept these items at semi-annual community clean-up events. Please call us at 864-949-1658 for more information.

3. How do I recycle an item that isn't listed on your website?: Our usual rule of thumb is "when in doubt, throw it out," but please contact our Recycling Coordinator by email at jsdao@spartanburgcounty.org or by calling 864-949-1658 for specific items.

4. Why don't you recycle styrofoam, plastic bags, etc.?: Typically we don’t recycle items that have a low market value, or that cause logistical concerns for our vendors. Styrofoam is extremely lightweight and the cost to process it into a marketable product is prohibitive (though some grocery stores accept it in small quantities). Plastic bags clog machinery used to sort and separate recyclables at our vendors’ materials recovery facilities (but you can take plastic bags back to local grocery stores for recycling). "Regular" batteries and compact fluorescent bulbs are also cost prohibitive to recycle (but both are accepted at our annual household hazardous waste collection event). We encourage you to give us a call at 864-949-1658 or email jsdao@spartanburgcounty.org if you’re looking for markets for certain items or you’d like more information about how the recycling process works.

5. How do I recycle electronics, what is e-waste, where do I take electronics, how can a business recycle electronics?: All residential electronics (defined as TVs (flat screen, CRT, projection, etc.), Computers, Computer monitors, Printers, Keyboards, Mice, and other computer accessories) may be recycled at the following recycling centers: White Stone, Cooley Springs, Hobbysville, and the Wellford Landfill. All televisions, computers, and anything that plugs into a computer (keyboards, printers, mice, etc.) MUST be recycled as per state law at any of the above locations. Businesses must bring televisions/computers/anything that plugs into a computer to the Wellford Landfill, and will be assessed a fee of $33 per ton; businesses with large amounts of material may contact the Recycling Coordinator for a list of vendors who handle e-waste directly.

6. How do I recycle tires?: Tires are accepted ONLY at the Wellford Landfill. Residents may bring up to 5 tires per household for free, and anything past that is $1.50 per tire or $150 per ton (for passenger sized tires) or $3.50 per tire or $350 per ton (for oversized tires). If someone has illegally dumped tires on your residential property, please contact the County's Environmental Enforcement Department at 864-596-3582. If you are a business needing to recycle tires, please contact the Solid Waste Coordinator at 864-949-0211.

7. I heard that someone goes through all the trash so there's no point in recycling. Is that true?: Absolutely not true. No one goes through your trash, so it is important if you choose to recycle, that you make the effort to put your recyclables in the correct receptacles at our recycling centers.

8. Do the recyclables actually get recycled or does it all just get thrown away?: Recyclables definitely do get recycled. Recycling is a huge business, and there is value in the recyclable products. Recyclables are taken to local vendors who process the materials and sell them on the open market. Spartanburg County generates revenue through the sale of recyclables. While recycling is important, it is just one step in the "3 R's" process, and we promote reducing, reusing, and recycling in that order. We urge residents to consider the end-of-life disposal options for products they buy, and we also encourage residents to research product packaging and choose to buy products made from recycled materials. Buying products that are made from recycled materials is arguably more important than recycling items; buying products made from recycled materials creates a demand that processors and manufacturers of recycled goods require to stay in business and to keep recycling. The well-known recycling symbol represents the 3 steps in the recycling process: 1) residents recycle their waste products, 2) manufacturers turn those waste products into new recycled materials, and 3) consumers purchase goods made from those recycled materials.

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Public Works Roads and Bridges

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1. How do I call about having a dead animal removed from roadway?: Call Roads & Bridges at 864-595-5320 if it is a County road and if State road call 864-587-4725.

2. What do I report if a tree falls in the roadway and it's after business hours?: Call 911 and they will notify the correct agency to have removed.

3. What is the rights-of-way of a road?: Rights-of-way varies by each road. Call Roads & Bridges at 864-595-5320 for specific road information.

4. How do I get a driveway and does the County install them?: Spartanburg County does not install driveway pipes for residential or commercial properties. The pipe must be reinforced concrete and approved by the Roads & Bridges Department. A permit is required prior to installation at no cost.

5. How can I get my road paved?: Contact the Roads & Bridges Department at 864-595-5320 and submit a request.

6. How do I file a claim for damage to my vehicle due to road issue?: Call the Roads & Bridges Department at 864-595-5320 to file a claim. Claims can also be reported to Terry Booker, Risk Manager at 864-596-3542.

7. How do I report a pothole?: Call the Roads & Bridges Department at 864-595-5320.

8. How do I report a traffic signal issue to?: Spartanburg County Roads and Bridges is not responsible for traffic light issues. Traffic signals are the responsibility of the South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) and can be contacted at 864-587-4725.

9. Who do I report a street light out or issue to?: Call your local power company, (ex. Duke Energy, Blue Ridge)

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Public Works Stormwater

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1. What is an illicit discharge?: An illicit discharge is defined as any discharge to the municipal separate storm sewer system that is not composed entirely of storm water, except for discharges allowed under a NPDES permit or waters used for firefighting operations.

2. How does the County monitor illicit discharges?: We have in stream monitoring stations that send us readings every fifteen minutes on several rivers throughout the county. These station detect both source and non-point source pollutants that are discharged into our watersheds. We also do dry weather screenings to detect illicit discharges. These are performed at least three days after a rain event. If a dry ditch still has water flowing in it we check it for an illicit discharge.

3. What is the cause for most illicit discharges?: Failing septic systems

4. What are the signs of a failing septic system?: To make everything very clear we have broken down the signs of septic system failure into three separate groupings.
1. Issues in the Home:
-Backup of sewage in your drains or toilets; this can often be a black type liquid with a disagreeable odor.
-Decreased flushing of your toilets
-Decreased drain flow from showers and sinks
-Unpleasant odors in your home

2. Issues with your Tank
-Over-flowing or near over-flowing septic tank
-High solids accumulation in the septic tank

3. Issues with the Leach-Field and Surrounding Environment
-Water accumulating / wet patches in the leach field
-Lush green grass through-out the year, especially if the surrounding garden is significantly different.
-Presence of contamination (e.g. nitrates, bacteria) in your well water is potentially a major health hazard and is a very clear indication that your septic system is not performing adequately.
-Accumulation of algae and aquatic weeds in adjacent lakes, ponds, streams is a clear indication that your septic system is under performing and contaminants / nutrients are migrating from your septic system.

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Solicitor

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1. What is a Solicitor?: The Solicitor is an elected official responsible for overseeing the prosecution of all General Sessions and Family Court criminal cases. The state is divided into 16 judicial circuits, each consisting of two or three counties. Solicitor Barry Barnette is responsible for the 7th Judicial Circuit, an area that includes Spartanburg and Cherokee counties. Solicitor Barnette and his counterparts across the state run for reelection every four years.

2. What is a bond hearing?: A court proceeding where the judge decides an amount of money or property that the defendant or their family must pay or put up to leave jail while they wait for the case to be called for trial. The bond serves as a guarantee the defendant will show up for trial. When setting a bond, the judge looks at the defendant's past criminal history, their ties to the community and the facts of the case and the defendant's prior criminal history. The judge must also consider the question of whether the defendant is a flight risk or a danger to the community.

3. What can I do to help with my case?: Be patient. Keep us informed of any new mailing addresses, email addresses or telephone numbers that you obtain. You also need to share copies of any receipts connected to your victimization. The documentation will help us prove your case in court.

4. What are first and second appearances?: First and second appearances are tools to organize the General Sessions criminal court docket. First appearances generally occur 30-60 days after the arrest. Hundreds of defendants are summoned at the same time to answer basic questions about how their case is going to proceed. Criminal defendants declare their intention to hire an attorney or represent themselves. The presiding judge places the case on a tract to be resolved within 6 months or a calendar year. Murder charges, sex crimes and other time-consuming prosecutions are placed on the one year tract. The projection is an estimate. It doesn’t necessarily mean the case will be resolved in the estimated time frame. Second appearances occur in less than six months from the date of arrest. Defendants and/or their attorneys are required to report whether the case will be a trial or a plea. A majority of the evidence involved in the case should be collected by the arresting law enforcement agency and provided to the defendant’s attorney by this point. The Clerk of Court places cases on the plea docket or the trial docket during this proceeding. It is not necessary for victims to attend first or second appearances. The Solicitor’s Office will notify victims in advance of guilty pleas and trials.

5. Why does it take so long for cases to come to court?: The local criminal justice system is strapped with a backlog of more than 8,000 pending criminal cases. About 200 new cases come into the system every week. The Solicitor's Office strives to move cases through the system in a timely fashion but there are factors that influence the pace of movement. There is a limited amount of court time every year. A large number of criminal defendants request jury trials.
Complicated cases take more time to prepare. Cases are often delayed while important pieces of evidence are tested by State Law Enforcement Division. SLED lab technicians serve police departments all over the state. They often have a huge backlog of items to be tested.

6. What kinds of cases are heard in Family Court?: Generally, criminal cases where the defendants are 17-years-old or younger. Juveniles who commit felonies that carry 15 years or more are tried in General Sessions Court.

7. What are my rights as a victim?: You have the right to be treated with dignity and respect. You should be informed when the defendant is arrested, released from custody, or has escaped. You should be notified about court proceedings - bond hearings, preliminary hearings, arraignments, guilty pleas, jury trials, restitution hearings, etc. and given the opportunity to speak to the judge at the appropriate times. You have the right to meet with the investigating police officer and the prosecutor before the trial. You have the right to have restitution ordered for crime-related losses. If you need help, you have the right to seek the assistance of a victim advocate, a person who can help you understand the many challenges of the criminal justice system. Victim advocates can help through court accompaniment, precourt meetings to address your concerns. You can also apply for funds to help with medical bills, funeral bills, counseling and lost wages through the Victim's Compensation Fund.

8. What is the Victim's Compensation Fund?: The Victim's Compensation Fund is a source of financial assistance for victims and their family members who have been affected by violent crime. Some of the eligibility requirements include submitting an application 180 days from the date of the crime and continued cooperation with law enforcement throughout their investigation. The crime must have occurred in South Carolina for payment to occur. Victim compensation funds will assist in the payment of medical expenses, lost wages, counseling and burial expenses. Victim advocates with police departments or the Solicitor's Office help victims fill out applications and give information on how to collect the claim.

9. What is a preliminary hearing?: This court procedure is the first step in a criminal case. A preliminary hearing is the right of the person charged with the crime. It is their chance to hear the evidence that the state has against them. A judge also decides if there is enough probable cause to charge defendant with the crime they are accused of committing.

10. Can I report a crime to the Solicitor's Office?: In most cases, crimes must be reported to the police department that has jurisdiction over the area where the crime occurred. Solicitors prosecute crimes rather than investigate them.

11. What is the purpose of a grand jury?: A grand jury is a panel of 18 citizens, selected each year, whose duty is to determine whether enough evidence exists to believe a crime has been committed. At least 12 of the 18 jurors must agree that the arresting agency has enough evidence for them to grant an indictment or a true bill. An indictment serves as a charging document that prosecutors must prove in General Sessions Court. In a case where the Grand Jury is not convinced a crime has been committed, a "no bill," is returned. The case is dismissed.

12. What is transfer court?: Transfer court is available for defendants who have been charged with any crime that incurs up to one year in prison or a fine of up to $5,000. Defendants who are eligible have their cases presented to a Magistrate Judge. One of the benefits of transfer court is that it takes place twice a month with set court dates. This schedule leads to speedy dispositions for less serious cases.

13. How long do I have to wait for a fraudulent check conviction to be dropped from my record?: You can have a fraudulent check conviction removed from your record one year from the date of your conviction, but only if there has been no further criminal activity.

14. What is a VIS form?: A VIS form is an abbreviation that stands for Victim Impact Statement. This form was designed to protect the rights of crime victims in South Carolina's criminal justice system. Victims use this form to show how crime has affected their lives. The form will become part of the court record and it will follow the defendant through the criminal justice system. The judge will use the form to gain a better understanding about the details of the case and the losses, both financial and emotional. The victim can also indicate on the VIS form whether or not they want to be present for all court proceedings pertaining to their case. VIS forms need to be returned to the office in a timely manner.

15. How will I get restitution?: A person that is ordered to pay restitution to a victim is put on probation. During this time, they must comply with a strict payment plan that is set up by their supervising agent with the state Department of Probation, Parole and Pardon Services – PPP. PPP collects the restitution payments and distribute the money to victims. If you are a crime victim who is due restitution, make sure PPP has your current contact information. If you fail to receive a payment, you need to contact PPP at (864) 596-2582 in Spartanburg County or (864) 489-4568 in Cherokee County.

16. How do I get a charge expunged from my criminal record?: Expungements (Destruction of Arrest Records) are handled by our Pre-Trial Intervention Office, 180 Library St., Spartanburg. Our office is in the basement of the building that houses Probation, Pardon Services and Parole. Anyone interested in getting a criminal charge expunged needs to stop by the PTI office to complete an application. We will check the applicant’s criminal record and let them know whether or not the charge can be expunged. All dismissals can be expunged. There is no charge for preparation of the order, but the Clerk of Court charges $14.00 to make the certified copies. Certain convictions can be expunged if they meet all criteria. The cost for a conviction is $250.00 to PTI, $35.00 to the Clerk of Court and $25.00 to SLED. We do not know what can be expunged until we can look at the complete criminal record. Once the expungement process is started, it takes 6-8 weeks before the charges are removed from the applicant’s record.

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Tax Collector

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1. When will your next sale be held?: The 2022 Spartanburg County tax sale will begin on Tuesday, December 6th, 2022.

2. Where is it held and what time does it begin?: It will be held in the Arena, on the lower level of the Spartanburg Memorial Auditorium, located at 385 North Church Street. All bidders are encouraged to register prior to the sale. Tax sale begins at 10:00 a.m. on the first day and 9:00 a.m. on any additional days required to complete the sale.

3. When and where do you advertise for the sale?: Bids must be submitted for the advertising of tax sale in the newspaper. When the bid is awarded, a link on our website will be provided to the newspaper's website where the advertisements will appear when the ads are available. By State law, the properties must be advertised once a week for three consecutive weeks before the sale.

4. Can you send me a list of the liens that will be available?: No, but you can get that information from the newspaper or visit their website.

5. Do I need to register for the sale and is there a fee for this?: In order to bid at the tax sale, individuals must be registered bidders. There is not a charge for registering to bid.

6. What form of payment do you accept?: Payment must be paid in full by the end of the sale. Methods of payment are limited to cash, cashier's check, certified check, or money order.

7. What happens to the liens that are not sold at the auction?: The opening bid is placed on behalf of the Forfeited Land Commission. If no other bid is received, the property may be available for assignment from the FLC.

8. If I end up with a property, does the county handle the foreclosure process?: No. We issue a tax deed and the owner must handle the foreclosure and getting a warranted deed.

9. Can I bid without attending (via mail, or a representative)?: No mail bids are accepted. Some companies send a representative.

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