New SC state agency seeks 400 percent budget hike

By Rick Brundrett | The Nerve

A recently created state agency that focuses on economic development in South Carolina’s rural counties is seeking a 400 percent increase in general funds next fiscal year, despite having millions in reserves in 2013.

The South Carolina Rural Infrastructure Authority has requested $7 million in general funds – $5,625,000 more than its current state appropriation of $1,375,000 – for fiscal 2015, which starts July 1, according to its budget plan submitted recently to the Office of State Budget.

“The Authority anticipates that demand for its grant program will exceed current grant program levels which is the reason the Authority has established a competitive grant process,” RIA Executive Director Bonnie Ammons said in the budget request.

at The Nerve.

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