2026 Spartanburg County Council Chair Election

*CANDIDATES' VIEWS IN THE Q&AS LINKED BELOW DO NOT REFLECT THE VIEWS OF ONESPARTANBURG, INC. CANDIDATE RESPONSES ARE THE CANDIDATES' OWN WORDS, HAVING COME FROM EMAILED RESPONSES.*

REPUBLICAN CANDIDATES

ANN ANGERMEIER

Website: www.angermeierforchair.com

The Office You're Seeking: County Council Chair

Tell us about yourself, your involvement in our community, and what you are for.

I grew up in Union County and moved to Spartanburg when I went to Converse College. There were no jobs to go back to in Union once the textiles offshored. This is why diversification in job sectors is so important. I saw it firsthand. I have been conservative all of my life but have friends who are not. While in college I worked for Union Camp Corporation (a manufacturer) in clerical work and customer service. I went full-time when I earned a bachelor's degree. I left Union Camp and worked for Bommer Industries in Landrum for five years. The General Manager of Union Camp called me up and asked me to come to an interview for a job with the Workforce Board (he was the board chair). He convinced me and I became the Executive Director for 25 years. We paid Spartanburg County to be our fiscal agent. I went to the county department head meetings and participated in the staff strategic planning sessions. I know the county government makeup better than anyone running for the chair seat. I've had private sector, public sector, and now small business experience. I am married to a brilliant man, Ingo. He has also taught me a lot. I have good common sense and will listen to all sides (both conservative and not so conservative) and then make my decision. I attended the yearlong economic development course under the Department of Commerce which they want all county elected officials to go through. I have had numerous trainings and received many awards. I am a quick study on finances. I’ve had the pleasure of serving on over 25 local boards and committees. I will furnish you a copy of my resume upon request. I am the leader you want for Spartanburg Council County Chair.

South Carolina’s Constitution sets a 10.5% property tax assessment on manufacturing property—well above the 4%–6% typical in competing Southeastern states. As a result, when companies meet qualifying investment and job criteria, tools like Fee in Lieu of Tax (FILOT) agreements are used to remain competitive and attract jobs and investment. FILOTs have been essential to attracting and retaining companies that have produced most of our community’s jobs. Do you support the use of FILOT agreements to offset this structural disadvantage? If yes, what specific criteria would you require to approve a FILOT? If not, what tools would you use to compete with lower-cost states and win jobs for the people of Spartanburg County?

I strongly support FILOT because state government has forced us to due to the 10.5% manufacturing tax they wrote into our state constitution. State elected officials are too scared of public backlash to fix this problem at their level which puts the burden and public backlash on the county and local economic development. We have to educate the public on why FILOT is needed. There is a lot of ignorance out there on this subject. If we don't use FILOT, you will not see new jobs nor expansions - it is that simple. We also cannot reveal the name of the company we are recruiting/working with from the start. Other counties/states will swoop in and steal them. Also, companies spend a lot in doing their due diligence before coming to us for our offer. They don't want their name revealed. Secrecy is not to hide it from our citizens; it is necessary for competition and for the company.

Spartanburg County voters approved a six-year, 1% penny sales tax in 2017 to replace outdated and inefficient facilities. Voters continued the measure another six years in 2023 to fund 577 road projects. Both measures delivered major projects with no debt, no interest, no property tax increases, and over 30% of revenue was and will be derived from visitors. Together, these measures reflect strong voter support for investing in growth infrastructure—differentiating Spartanburg from neighboring counties who have been unable to pass similar initiatives. Did you support the 2017 and 2023 referendums? If yes, why? If not, what specific alternative funding mechanism would you have used to deliver the same scale of projects without raising property taxes or taking on debt—and would it generate comparable visitor-funded revenue?

I did support the penny tax. We desperately needed roads repaired, a new courthouse and new county offices. The County and City moving into the same complex should be an economic saving benefit. I'd like to see us consolidate in some more areas down the road (like maybe joint purchasing dept). County Councils for years have ignored the need for the road/bridge repairs because they were afraid to raise taxes to fix them due to public backlash. They had no strategy to fix the issue when they passed the $25 road fee. The county has a concrete strategy now but will continue to see things pop up that is outside that strategy that has to be dealt with like labor shortage for the work and rapid rising costs. We are paying for the sins of our past and when you ignore roads and bridges for as long as they were ignored and at the same time have tremendous growth to compound it, this is what we get. We are playing catchup and will for a while.

Given rising costs across the board, current residents and newcomers are finding it more difficult to afford housing. People want to live close to their place of employment, and companies want to locate in areas where housing is financially obtainable for their employees. What steps would you take to ensure housing is obtainable for current residents and newcomers?

I was recently informed that about 37% of the cost of a mortgage is due to State and County regulations. I think this needs to be studied closely. Government tends to allow things like this to add up and not take anything away. Home ownership builds wealth. Many young people don't even see it as a possibility in their 20's and even early 30's. I had my first home at the age of 23 with a 30-year mortgage at an 11% interest rate. It was hard, but doable. The increased cost of housing makes it impossible to stay at the 30% ideal for the total cost of your housing (includes mortgage, taxes, insurance and utilities). Those days are over. It has become a burden to own a home unless you have a high salary. In meeting with the Spartanburg Board of Realtors last week, we have seen more inventory. The average day on the market is 74 which is longer than I expected so things are getting better. How many of the homes being sold are being bought by newcomers vs. locals? I think we have to get a lot of people in the room (government, realtors, developers, OneSpartanburg, etc.) to figure out strategies. This would be my first step and move forward from that. This is a big issue for our county. As it relates to rental costs, it so expensive and the market is going to dictate the costs. Like transportation options, we've been talking about affordable housing for years and nothing seems to change. I would want to get experts in the room that have had success with this from other areas of or size, but I don't think the county should dole out dollars for affordable housing offset costs.

Limiting economic development moves more of the tax burden to residents while also reducing job opportunities and the potential for higher wages. At the same time, economic growth must be managed with a focus on quality over quantity – a strategy that has seen some success with recent life science announcements, small business growth, and record per capita income. Would you work to continue high-quality job creation over low-impact growth? If not, how would you prevent increased tax burdens and declining opportunity for residents?

I 100% believe in strong economic development! We have to continually bring jobs to the area because we continually lose jobs. The unemployment rate was 4.8 in December and jumped to 5.5 in January. The reporting of the rates are behind due to the last government shutdown. High wages and sector diversification are top of my list. Katherine O'Neal is one of the best at economic development. Her experience is unmatched. I will work diligently with economic development in Cherokee, Spartanburg, Union and Greer (the county works closely with our border neighbors on many projects). I know the economic developers and council leadership in these border communities. I'd also like to know which of our outlying areas are interested in stronger economic development for their communities in the way of jobs. What are the infrastructure needs to make it happen if they want it? Some areas are growing very rapidly while some are not. I continue to hear some people say stop the growth. They don't know how detrimental that would be for them, their children and grandchildren. We need controlled and strategically planning growth, not no growth.

OneSpartanburg Vision Plan 2.0 data indicated small business growth and creation below the national average. One goal of the Spartanburg County Vision Plan is to “strengthen the small and local business impact on the economy.” In 2023, the County and OneSpartanburg, Inc. partnered to create Power Up Spartanburg – a new initiative designed to make Spartanburg the best place in America to start or grow a small business. Since inception, the initiative has engaged 2,672 small businesses leading to measurable small business growth across the county. Would you support the continuation of Power Up Spartanburg? If so, why? If not, what specific plan would you implement to strengthen and grow small businesses across Spartanburg County?

I served on the Spartanburg County committee for this project shortly after the County Council decided to fund and support this project. I am a big proponent of small business startup and growth. I have not been on the committee since mid-August of 2025 so I would need more data for a firm yes, but you definitely have a soft yes. It is important for me to know the amount needed and where the funds would come from in the county coffers. I do think you have a fantastic leader in Jay Jenkins running this project. I would meet with Jay to go deep into the data of the 2,672 that actually started or grew their business and how many are still in business one year after their launch, etc. I started a small business in late 2025 and there is a lot involved when an individual makes the decision to start. I do think most people need help to start or they need to be told not to start if the timing is not right or their talent or commitment isn't right. It is impossible for a small business startup center or incubator to be self-funded. If we are going to help small businesses in a concrete manner, it has to be subsidized. The cost has to be shared by multiple government/other organizations/philanthropy in an equitable manner.

With the loss of public tournaments at the Upward Sports facility and its $15M annual impact, would you support investing in a new sports tourism facility (that would be available for residents’ use) if most of the funding is generated by visitors? If not, what is your alternative plan to replace this economic impact?

I would need a lot more information to clearly answer this question. The way it is written, I would say yes, but knowing that the devil is in the details, I want a lot of details. Sports can bring a lot of money to our county.

WILLIAM CRAWFORD

Website: www.crawfordforchairman.com

The Office You're Seeking: Spartanburg County Chairman

Tell us about yourself, your involvement in our community, and what you are for.

I’m a husband, a father of two, and a small business owner right here in Spartanburg County. Boiling Springs is home and like so many families, we’re deeply invested in this community, not just for today, but for the future we’re building for our children. I’m running to bring a business-minded, service-focused approach to county government and to make sure it works better for the people it serves. Professionally, I spent my early career in the corporate world and now own a business, which means I understand firsthand what it takes to meet a payroll, manage a budget, and make responsible decisions when others are depending on you. That perspective shapes how I view the government because at the end of the day, it’s your money, and it should be handled with the same care and discipline. My involvement in the community has always been about service. I’ve had the opportunity to serve on several non-profit boards, most notably, as Chairman of the Upstate Family Resource Center, and President of the South Carolina Self Storage Association. I’m also active at Northbrook Baptist, where I served as a deacon and trustee. Those experiences have reinforced my belief that the best solutions come when people work together and stay focused on serving others. I’m for responsible growth, making sure we plan for infrastructure, roads, water, and emergency services before growth happens, not after. I’m for strong partnerships, working with our municipalities, special purpose districts, and state leaders so that we’re not operating in silos, but moving forward together. I’m for fiscal responsibility, keeping taxes low, prioritizing core services, and making sure every dollar spent delivers real value to the people of this county. And I’m for preserving what makes Spartanburg County special, protecting our quality of life, our sense of community, and ensuring that as we grow, we still recognize the place we call home.

I support the responsible use of tools available to the county to secure a vibrant future for the residents. The reality is, South Carolina starts at a disadvantage. When our Constitution sets certain assessments at 10.5%, while neighboring states are often in the 4%–6% range, we either compete with the tools available to us, or we lose jobs and investment to other states. In addition to jobs, the commercial tax base reduces the burden on the residential property tax owners. That said, support does not mean a blank check. If we are going to offer incentives, it needs to be earned and it needs to deliver real value to the people of this county. I would look for a few key criteria: First, transparency. The public deserves to understand what is being offered and what they’re getting in return. Second, a strong return on investment. Clear capital investment and if job creation is a factor, those jobs must pay enough to support families. Third, accountability. Retain claw back provisions if job or investment commitments are not met. Expand the oversight process to ensure companies are meeting the required levels of investment on schedule. Fourth, community fit, a “good neighbor” approach. Projects should respect surrounding areas and contribute positively to the long-term character of our county. And finally, infrastructure alignment. Making sure we’re not putting existing taxpayers on the hook for roads, water, or services. Growth should follow a model where infrastructure keeps pace with development. Walking away from any available tool the county can utilize to secure our future would mean walking away from opportunity. I would only support FILOTs when key criteria are met and clearly in the best interest of the people of Spartanburg County.

I supported the penny sales tax referendums, and I believe they represent one of the best examples of disciplined, voter-driven infrastructure investment we’ve seen in Spartanburg County. I’m not aware of a different option that delivers the same combination of scale, transparency, and shared burden with visitors. These measures work because they are transparent, time-limited, and result-focused. Voters knew exactly what they were getting: modern public facilities and hundreds of road projects delivered without taking on debt and without increasing property taxes. From a business perspective, it’s a pay-as-you-go model and that’s the right approach. You avoid long-term liabilities, you maintain flexibility, and you ensure accountability because the measure has to be re-earned from voters. That said, support doesn’t mean we stop challenging wasteful spending and continually ask for more money. Past county leadership should have recognized the need for planning for obsolescence of infrastructure and buildings. While we have the 1% sales tax, we must continue to cut government waste and focus taxpayer dollars in a way that delivers core government functions to the people.

We need to be honest; any time the government gets involved in the free market, there are consequences. This is about balance, making sure Spartanburg County remains a place where people can live, work, and raise a family, while still protecting the character and quality of life that make people want to be here in the first place. Housing affordability is one of the most important issues we’re facing, and it’s directly tied to how we manage growth. If we don’t get this right, we risk pricing out our children who grew up here. Not every part of the county should look the same, but we do need options so everyone can find a place they can afford. I support a “good neighbor” approach to development. This means thoughtful land-use decisions that respect existing communities while still allowing for responsible growth. When done right, growth doesn’t have to be disruptive, it can strengthen a community. We must address our aging ordinances and examine the permitting process. We can demand a quality housing product and neighborhoods that complement their surroundings. The county should deliver clear community standards that reduce uncertainty in the building process. Time is money in development and construction. Unclear regulations and red tape drive up costs that ultimately get passed on to homebuyers and renters. This process also requires that we work in partnership with municipalities, utilities, and the state to expand infrastructure in a strategic way that opens up more areas for attainable housing without overburdening taxpayers.

I believe we should continue targeting industries like advanced manufacturing and other sectors that offer strong wages and long-term stability. At the same time, we can’t overlook small businesses as they are the backbone of our local economy and often the source of sustainable, organic growth. I’m for the kind of growth that raises incomes, strengthens our community, and ensures Spartanburg County remains a place where opportunity continues to expand for the people who call it home. If we simply chase volume (any project, any job) we risk straining infrastructure, driving up housing costs, and shifting the tax burden back onto residents. However, when we focus on quality jobs that pay well, companies that invest in our community, and industries that fit our long-term vision, we strengthen our tax base while improving opportunity for our citizens. Every major project should be evaluated on return on investment, wages, capital investment, and long-term economic impact. Tools like workforce development partnerships and infrastructure investment are all part of making sure Spartanburg County continues to win projects against other areas. If we abandon a quality-first approach, the alternative is lower wages, higher costs, and more pressure on residents to make up the difference. That’s not a path I’m willing to take.

If we’re serious about building a strong, resilient local economy, we can’t just focus on recruiting large employers, we have to grow our own. Power Up Spartanburg is a step in that direction, and I support continuing it with a focus on results, accountability, and real impact for the people it’s designed to serve. I say that not just as a candidate, but as a small business owner and someone who has volunteered as a mentor in the program. There are private companies and individuals throughout our county willing to volunteer their time and invest back into our business community. We need to continue to foster that ecosystem. Small businesses are the backbone of our local economy. I live that every day; meeting payroll, managing costs, and understanding how decisions made at the county level can either help or hinder growth. Through volunteering with Power Up Spartanburg, I’ve seen firsthand the impact it can have when entrepreneurs have the right tools, mentorship, and support. The program should stay focused on outcomes: new business starts, expansions, job creation, and long-term survival rates. We must continue to ensure access across the entire county by making sure rural areas, startups, and existing small businesses all have a real opportunity to participate. My hope is the program continues to connect this effort with workforce development and mentorship, so businesses not only start, but succeed and grow. I also want to see the continuation of connecting small businesses and larger industries by helping local companies plug into supply chains and benefit from the growth happening here. On council, I will continue to look for ways to reduce barriers to opening and growing a small business. As a business owner, I know time and uncertainty cost money.

I would support exploring options for a new sports tourism facility, provided it is done in a way that clearly benefits the people of Spartanburg County. This shouldn’t be a facility that sits empty between tournaments. It should be something local families, schools, and recreation leagues can use year-round. The funding model matters. If the funding is generated by visitors through mechanisms like hospitality or accommodations taxes, then we’re exporting the cost and not placing it on the residents. That’s a strong starting point. Before moving forward, I would want to see realistic projections on usage, economic impact, and long-term operating costs, not just construction. It has to fit into a broader strategy. Sports tourism can be a powerful economic driver, but it should complement, not replace, our focus on high-quality job creation, small business growth, and long-term economic development. Location and infrastructure are also critical points of discussion. Does the project lend itself to a tourism district? It needs to be in a place where roads, traffic flow, and utilities can support it without creating new burdens for surrounding communities. I would be interested in exploring a model that allows an entity other than the county to be the primary owner. While sports facilities contribute to the quality of life we need to have within the county, the county needs to ensure they fund core government functions before money is spent on a facility that needs perpetual care. Just like any major investment, this has to be disciplined and driven by results and there must be accountability if those projections aren’t met. I’m open to learning more but will only support it if it’s visitor-funded, community-focused, and backed by a clear, accountable plan that delivers real value to Spartanburg County residents.

MIKE STACY

Candidate did not respond.

DAVID WHITENER

Website: None

The Office You're Seeking: Chairman Spartanburg County Council

Tell us about yourself, your involvement in our community, and what you are for.

There are several areas that I have been a part of in Spartanburg County. I was a Volunteer Fireman, Certified EMT, Greenville VA OPC HOSPITAL Service Coordinator, State Certified Service Officer for VA claims. District five school Volunteer, I've been in the Ministry since 1978. I have two post Graduate degrees. Master of Theology and Doctor of Divinity. Past District 4 and DAV chapter 3 Commander and lifetime member of the DAV and THE VFW. I'm past Vice Commander of American Legion Post 28. I served in the USAF for over six years. Also I was appointed to the Spartanburg Drug and Alcohol Abuse Commission in early 2000. I served as President of a Religious Organization, managing operations and budgets for churches and camps in the Midwest and Southeastern United States. I'm deeply vested in the Spartanburg community. I have 3 children and 10 grandchildren. My desire is for them to live in a great community with regulated growth and industries that offer high wages.

It seems that everything focuses on finances. I was in agreement with the FILOT given to BMW and certain peripheral supporting industries. That particular period of time was a transition period for Spartanburg as we diversified and moved further away from textiles. If an industry with similar strengths were to desire to locate in Spartanburg, a FILOT would be warranted. However, we must evaluate the impact on the environment and tranquility of the residents. After all, they are who the council ultimately represents. We are not a poor desperate entity. I believe we have an attractive county which is a powerful tool in attracting businesses. We must not obligate our grandchildren to pay a debt that we instituted. We can negotiate a reasonable and acceptable agreement with potential industries desiring to locate in Spartanburg. Spartanburg has varying natural resources and a beautiful topography with seasonal weather. However, our infrastructure and roads are suffering now. Will Spartanburg be presentable to industry in the not so distant future? We must act now to repair and construct suitable and acceptable infrastructure. I don't want to lure businesses to Spartanburg but offer them the tools to sustain their profitability causing them to desire locating here.

I traveled to and from Asheville NC today. NC has excellent roads and infrastructure. It always has. I traveled through Greenville also. Yes, I supported the one cent sales tax for the many proposed roads and bridges repair and construction. Although the new Courthouse is nice, I believe that a comprehensive rehab of the previous Courthouse would have been sufficient. The one cent sales tax is reportedly supposed to garner 478 million dollars over the six year period. If I understand correctly, that to just resurface a 15 ft. wide Rd. one mile in length costs one million dollars. Spartanburg county has 1750 miles of roads. We will be forced to implement another one cent sales tax to repair just the roads. This sales tax may run in perpetuity. Nevertheless, we must catch up with other county and states that planned well for the future where we have failed.

About 200 yards from my driveway a developer bought 41.1 acres of land and is going to build 243 houses with each lot being no more than 5000 sq. ft. If each home drives one vehicle, that would become a safety issue on this two mile road. So what if each home has two vehicles? Catastrophe. This is one example of the chaos taking place in many areas of Spartanburg. It's fine to build in this fashion but we must be prepared for the traffic in order to prevent deaths. Regarding the availability of housing. The real estate industry, did for a time, artificially inflate the price for housing. Interest rates where over 6% which was another factor that discouraged first time home buyers. Lately housing prices have adjusted down ever so slightly. It's critical that President Trump replace the Fed Chair at the designated time to further decrease interest rates. The Council doesn't regulate the price of building materials. The Federal Government doesn't give block grants to communities that aren't depressed. This is a difficult equation that requires a comprehensive investigation in order to attract buyers. Demand drives the market. A very nice house in Greenwood cost 189,000. If it were located in Spartanburg, the asking price would be 289,000, if you were fortunate. Every problem has an answer. This problem has so many variables and they are fluid. To give a definitive answer would be very difficult considering the constant movement of the local market.

This is a disingenuious question. It asks for an impossible solution or implies that there exists no middle ground. We live in Spartanburg, not Greenville or Charlotte. I believe the average person wants to experience a balanced life without an inflated tax burden. This can be achieved through smart growth. These scenarios suggest and imply an either or outcome. I think we should maintain a steady, safe, and regulated growth. The county should not pursue an accelerated or a slow expansion. At last evening's Council meeting, several FILOTS received readings. A FILOT was given to a Federal Credit Union. That was surprising to me. The tax burden should be evenly distributed. We are not a poor County. In my opinion, Spartanburg is indeed expanding too quickly. There comes a time when one must step back and evaluate their principle ideology. We should pursue excellence and provide the residents with opportunities so they can live and prosper. We shouldn't create overcrowding or unsafe conditions. Everyone needs to consider the cause and effect of their actions. There are times when the means does not justify the end results.

Power Up Spartanburg performed well in some areas. I'm impressed with the community involvement programs as well as their pursuit of growing small businesses. It stands to reason that no one will be 100% successful with their involvement as in small business growth. Number of contacts and helpful proposals give encouragement to those desiring to engage in a new start up. I support this platform.

My grandchildren have participated in Upward sports programs. They continue to use the facility even though it is under new ownership. My suggestion is that the County approach the new owners and make a reasonable offer to purchase the facility. It is perfect for the community of Spartanburg with an excellent location. I live approximately two miles from the facility. I think we, as a county, should seriously consider obtaining this state of the art facility. It would be a positive plus for our sports programs and other recreational activities.

DEMOCRATIC CANDIDATES

LEKESA WHITNER

Name: Lekesa "Kesha" Whitner

Website: www.lekesaforcountycouncilchair.com

The Office You're Seeking: Spartanburg County Council Chair

Tell us about yourself, your involvement in our community, and what you are for.:

My name is LeKesa “Kesha” Whitner, and I am running for Chair of Spartanburg County Council because I believe leadership should be visible, accessible, and rooted in service to the people. I am a native of Spartanburg County. For years, I have dedicated my life to helping others through community development, entrepreneurship, education, mentorship, and advocacy. I’ve worked alongside families, business owners, nonprofits, faith leaders, and residents throughout Spartanburg County to help create opportunities and improve the quality of life. Whether through Start: ME Spartanburg, Children and Choices, youth initiatives, workforce development, or neighborhood engagement, my focus has always been on empowering people and strengthening our community from the ground up. I believe Spartanburg County is full of potential, but we need leadership that listens, collaborates, and puts people first. I am for responsible growth that benefits all areas of the county, not just a select few. I am for economic opportunities that support all businesses and working families. I am for safer communities, stronger infrastructure, transparency in government, and investments in our youth, seniors, and underserved communities. Most importantly, I am for unity. I believe we can move Spartanburg County forward together by building relationships, creating solutions, and ensuring every resident feels seen, heard, and valued. I’m not running for a title. I’m running because I care deeply about this community and believe we deserve leadership that shows up, works hard, and serves with integrity.

I support the responsible use of FILOT agreements because Spartanburg County must remain competitive in attracting and retaining quality jobs and investment. However, I believe incentives should serve the people of Spartanburg County first, not just corporations. My vision is centered on “Smart Growth. Strong Communities. Sustainable Future.” That means every FILOT agreement should come with clear accountability, transparency, and measurable community benefits. I support performance-based incentives that require companies to deliver real value before receiving long-term tax advantages. The criteria I would require for approving a FILOT agreement include: Local job creation with livable wages and strong benefits Workforce development partnerships with our schools, colleges, and training institutions Opportunities for small business inclusion and supplier diversity Transparency and public reporting so residents understand: What incentives are being offered? What commitments are companies making? Whether those commitments are being fulfilled. Accountability measures and clawback provisions if companies fail to meet agreed-upon benchmarks. I also believe economic development should align with community needs, not just outside investment. Growth should include affordable housing, infrastructure improvements, preservation of green space, and meaningful community input in major development decisions. In addition, I want to strengthen our workforce pipeline by investing in youth opportunities, apprenticeships, entrepreneurship, and career pathways in industries like healthcare, technology, and skilled trades. We must prepare Spartanburg County residents to benefit directly from the jobs we help bring into our community. At the same time, we must protect our natural resources and ensure sustainability remains part of every economic development conversation. I stand opposed to large-scale, water-intensive data centers that place a significant strain on our water systems and often create few long-term jobs relative to their environmental impact. Economic growth should never come at the expense of our water supply, our infrastructure, or future generations.

Yes, I supported the 2017 and 2023 penny sales tax referendums because I believe strategic infrastructure investment is necessary for Spartanburg County’s continued growth and long-term success. The fact that voters approved both measures shows that residents understood the importance of addressing infrastructure needs proactively rather than waiting until problems became more costly and difficult to solve. I also recognize that these initiatives allowed the county to complete major projects without increasing property taxes or taking on long-term debt, while generating significant revenue from visitors who utilize our roads and infrastructure. That matters because growth should not fall solely on the backs of local homeowners. However, my support for these initiatives also comes with an expectation of accountability, transparency, and equitable investment throughout Spartanburg County. Infrastructure investments should benefit all communities, not just high-growth corridors or areas receiving the most outside development. My approach is rooted in “Smart Growth. Strong Communities. Sustainable Future.” That means I support infrastructure investments that improve quality of life, strengthen public safety, support economic development, and prepare our county for future growth. But As County Council Chair, I would advocate for balanced infrastructure planning that includes: Road improvements and traffic management. Water and sewer infrastructure. Sidewalks and pedestrian safety. Preservation of green space. Community-centered development planning. I also believe infrastructure decisions must align with sustainable growth. While I support investments that move Spartanburg County forward, I do not support projects that place unnecessary strain on our natural resources or fail to deliver meaningful long-term community benefits. Most importantly, I believe residents should continue having a voice in major funding and infrastructure decisions. When taxpayers are asked to invest in the future of Spartanburg County, they deserve transparency, accountability, and leadership that ensures those investments benefit the entire community.

Housing affordability is one of the most important challenges facing Spartanburg County, and it requires a balanced approach that focuses on both growth and protecting the people who already call this community home. My vision is centered on “Smart Growth. Strong Communities. Sustainable Future.” As Spartanburg County continues to grow, we must ensure that teachers, healthcare workers, first responders, young professionals, seniors, working families, and longtime residents can all afford to live in the communities they serve and love. Housing should not become out of reach for the very people helping move our county forward. The steps I would support include: Encouraging mixed-income and workforce housing developments that create housing opportunities at multiple price points. Supporting smart land-use and development policies that balance growth with community needs instead of unchecked overdevelopment. Expanding partnerships between local government, developers, nonprofits, and employers to increase attainable housing options. Prioritizing infrastructure investments that support responsible housing growth in areas equipped to handle it. Advocating for neighborhood revitalization efforts that help existing residents remain in their communities rather than being displaced by rising costs. Supporting pathways to homeownership, financial literacy, and entrepreneurship so families can build long-term stability and generational wealth. Ensuring residents have a voice in major development decisions that impact their neighborhoods and quality of life. I also believe housing conversations must include transportation, workforce development, and quality-of-life investments. People want to live near where they work, and businesses want to invest in communities where employees can afford to live. That means we must think holistically about economic development and community planning. At the same time, growth must remain sustainable. I support development that strengthens our communities without overwhelming infrastructure, increasing displacement, or placing unnecessary strain on natural resources. Affordable and attainable housing is not just an economic issue; it is a community issue. Strong communities are built when people have stable housing, safe neighborhoods, access to opportunity, and the ability to remain rooted in the places they call home.

Yes, I would absolutely work to continue high-quality job creation, because Spartanburg County’s long-term success depends on growing wages, expanding opportunity, and strengthening our tax base without overburdening residents. My approach is rooted in “Smart Growth. Strong Communities. Sustainable Future.” That means I do not believe the choice is between growth or no growth. The real question is what kind of growth we pursue and whether it meaningfully improves the lives of the people already here. High-quality economic development is the goal because it delivers: Higher-wage jobs that allow residents to afford housing and rising costs. Stronger long-term tax revenue without increasing the burden on homeowners. Better workforce opportunities for our young people and working families. Sustainable investment that strengthens infrastructure and community services. I would support continuing a quality-focused economic development strategy that prioritizes industries like life sciences, advanced manufacturing, healthcare innovation, and technology, alongside strong support for all business growth, which remains the backbone of our local economy. At the same time, I believe success must be measured not just by announcements, but by outcomes. That includes: Wage levels compared to cost of living. Local hiring commitments and workforce pipelines. Long-term capital investment in our community. Supplier diversity and opportunities for small and local businesses. Infrastructure capacity and community impact. To ensure residents are not left with a higher tax burden, I would focus on: Expanding the tax base through strategic, high-impact development rather than unchecked or low-value growth. Strengthening public-private partnerships that invest in workforce development so residents can fill higher-paying jobs. Supporting responsible use of incentives only when tied to measurable returns for the community. Ensuring small business growth is actively supported through access to capital, technical assistance, and procurement opportunities. I also believe growth must be planned, not reactive. When we align housing, infrastructure, workforce development, and economic development together, we reduce strain on taxpayers and create a stronger foundation for sustainable prosperity. In short, I support high-quality, intentional economic growth, not just for the sake of expansion, but because it is the most responsible way to protect taxpayers, expand opportunity, and ensure Spartanburg County continues moving forward without leaving residents behind.

Yes, I strongly support the continuation and expansion of Power Up Spartanburg because strengthening small businesses is essential to building a resilient, locally driven economy. My vision is rooted in “Smart Growth. Strong Communities. Sustainable Future.” and small business development sits at the center of that vision. As the Director of Start:ME Spartanburg, I see firsthand the power of intentional investment in entrepreneurs. Through Start:ME Spartanburg, we work directly with small business owners to provide training, coaching, and access to networks that help turn ideas into sustainable, income-generating businesses. We also collaborate closely with OneSpartanburg, Inc. and other partners to align resources, reduce duplication, and strengthen the overall small business ecosystem across Spartanburg County. Programs like Power Up Spartanburg are working because they are intentional. The engagement of more than 2,600 small businesses shows that when we meet entrepreneurs where they are, we can create measurable momentum and real outcomes. I support continuing Power Up Spartanburg because it: Strengthens local entrepreneurship and keeps dollars circulating within Spartanburg County. Helps small businesses move from startup to stability to growth. Expands opportunity across urban, suburban, and rural communities. Builds long-term economic resilience that is not dependent on a few large employers. But I also believe we must deepen and expand this work to ensure it translates into long-term business success, not just engagement numbers. My approach would include: Expanding access to capital and funding pathways for startups and scaling businesses. Strengthening technical assistance in accounting, marketing, legal compliance, and digital growth. Increasing small business participation in county procurement and supply chains tied to major development projects. Expanding entrepreneurship pipelines through schools, workforce programs, and community-based training. Supporting incubators and co-working spaces in underserved and rural areas of the county. Ensuring alignment between economic development, workforce training, and small business growth so entrepreneurs are connected to opportunity at every level. Ultimately, I believe small businesses are where generational wealth is created and where communities are truly strengthened. If Spartanburg County is going to continue growing responsibly, then small business development cannot be an add-on; it must remain a central pillar of our economic strategy.

Yes. I would support exploring and investing in a new sports tourism facility, especially if it is structured so that the majority of funding is generated by visitors and not placed on the backs of local taxpayers, and if it also provides meaningful access for residents. My approach is guided by “Smart Growth. Strong Communities. Sustainable Future.” and that means we have to be strategic about how we replace and grow the economic impact we’ve lost with the reduction of tournaments at facilities like the Upward Sports complex. If structured responsibly, a sports tourism facility can be a strong economic driver because it: Brings outside dollars into Spartanburg County through hotels, restaurants, and retail. Supports local jobs in hospitality, services, and facility operations. Expands recreation opportunities for residents, especially youth and families. Helps maintain our competitiveness as a regional destination for sports tourism. However, my support is not unconditional, it must be tied to clear standards and accountability. Any investment should include: A funding structure that minimizes or avoids new property tax burdens on residents. Strong visitor-based revenue assumptions that are realistic and transparent. Guaranteed resident access so the facility serves the community, not just tournaments. A clear economic impact plan that outlines job (preferably local) creation and return on investment. A long-term maintenance and sustainability plan so taxpayers are not left with future liabilities. At the same time, I believe we should not rely on any single project to replace economic impact. We must pursue a diversified strategy that includes: Expanding year-round sports tourism events across multiple facilities in the county. Strengthening partnerships with schools, universities, and private facilities to host regional tournaments. Investing in downtown and community-based events that drive consistent visitor spending. Supporting small business growth in hospitality, retail, and service industries that benefit. from tourism. Aligning workforce development so residents can access the jobs created by this industry. If we do this correctly, sports tourism becomes more than a single facility; it becomes an ecosystem that supports sustained economic activity across Spartanburg County. Ultimately, I support investments that generate outside revenue, strengthen our local economy, and provide value to residents. But those investments must be transparent, financially responsible, and clearly beneficial to the people who live here every day.

LEON WILES

Website: www.leonwilesforchair.com

The Office You're Seeking: Chairman Spartanburg County Council

Tell us about yourself, your involvement in our community, and what you are for.

I have been a resident of Spartanburg for 44 years. During my residency, I have been actively involved in community organizations and entities that promote the wellbeing and health of the Spartanburg community. Specifically, I have served on the United Way Resource Panel, the Greater Spartanburg YMCA Board, the Board of Mobile Meals, the Urban League of the Upstate Board, Chairman of The Fatherhood Coalition Executive Board, founded and chaired the Highland Neighborhood Community Development Corporation, Member of the City of Spartanburg Human Relations Committee under Mayor James Talley, Chair of the College Town Consortium under former Mayor Bill Barnett, Member of the Spartanburg Lions Club, Member of the Spartanburg Village Partnership Board, Participated in several Habitat for Humanity House Building Projects, Volunteer Fundraiser for the Salvation Army, President of 100 Black Men Mentoring Organization. I have also been a mentor for students at the Viking Early College Program which is sponsored by Spartanburg High School. Chairman of the Greater Spartanburg YMCA Black Achievers Program. Established a math and science enhancement program entitled the Smart Start Program which was funded by the state department of education to aid middle school youth Presently I am a Deacon at Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church.

Yes, I support FILOT agreements. I would consider the amount of a company's investment in the county. I would expect the investing company to meet a minimum investment criteria which would ne established by a decision of the county council following some level of consultation with the Spartanburg Chamber Board. Another important criteria would be the projected employment anticipated as a result of the investment made by the company. This criteria would include a consideration of the types of job opportunities created by the company's investment as it relates to the employment and economic interests of the county. Another consideration that could potentially be added to a FIlot agreement is a special source credit to offset some of the infrastructure costs associated with a start up investment by a new company. It will be important to include a time limitation within a FILOTt agreement . For example , a 20 or 30 year agreement and possibly the potential for an adjustment every 5 years. These agreements , I believe, have to be negotiated on a case by case basis and are dependent upon the potential magnitude of the impact on the economic development and progress of Spartanburg County.

I supported both of the referendums. I believe that it was a necessary and intelligent way to fund our road projects by enabling county visitors who use our roads to share the costs associated with maintaining and improving our roads. This approach ,I believe , minimized the economic impact of the referendum on Spartanburg residents.

There are several specific strategies that the county can use as incentives to offer more affordable housing within the Spartanburg County. These include: A method known as Inclusionary Zoning can be used to require developers to set aside a percentage of new residential developments for affordable housing. Using Community Land Trusts to hold land for affordable housing is another strategy that can be put into practice. Tax incentives and subsidies are another approach that can be used to create affordable housing options The county can streamline the permit process to reduce costs for developers and expedite construction of affordable housing. One other approach that I believe should be considered.is the offer of incentives for developers to redevelop or reuse existing vacant or available buildings, schools, factories or warehouses that can be converted into affordable housing.

I absolutely support strategic, rational job creation and economic diversification with attention to impact of growth on the environment, infrastructure, public health and safety.

I would support Power Up wholeheartedly and would be interested in exploring ways the initiative can be strengthened through a collaboration with area business departments at area colleges and universities. I would also be interested in exploring the potential for city and county offices and larger corporations partnerships that could lead to an increase in small business development.

I am always interested in attracting visitors to our county. I believe we have much to be proud of and to show to outsiders. While I would be interested in exploring the feasibility of investing in a sports complex to generate visitors and revenue, I would want to determine the reason the Upward Sports facility has loss the income of public tournaments. There may be important lessons to learn. I am not convinced that "if you build it, visitors will come." I believe that it is important do conduct a market analysis prior to any development and have a marketing plan that is based upon credible research.




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2026 Spartanburg County Council Chair Election

REPUBLICAN CANDIDATES

ANN ANGERMEIER

WILLIAM CRAWFORD

MIKE STACY

DAVID WHITENER

DEMOCRATIC CANDIDATES

LEKESA WHITNER

LEON WILES

What Our Members are Saying