Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Union County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
10 issues with critical priority
Data Centers and Cryptomining Regulations
Union County now has real rules for data centers and cryptomining: they're limited to heavy industrial zones with special permits, bigger setbacks from homes, noise baselines and a 12-month teardown rule for abandoned sites. The county can't ban them outright under state law, so this shapes where and how they can be built.
Stage 2 Drought Declaration and Mandatory Water Restrictions
The county drops from drought stage two to stage one Thursday, easing mandatory water restrictions — some limits still apply.
I-77 South Toll Lanes and CRTPO Directed Vote
The board discussed the I-77 South toll lane project and voted to reaffirm support to prevent state funding penalties and avoid local liability for sunk costs.
EMS Base Station Expansion and Fire Department Partnerships
County staff presented an update on upgrading emergency medical services through partnerships with local fire departments to establish base stations and reduce response times.
County Jail Referendum Information and Concerns
Architects presented four structural and architectural options for replacing or renovating the county jail, ranging from adaptive reuse to all-new construction, with estimated project costs between $170.8 million and $211.5 million, leading up to a November 2026 bond referendum.
FY 2027 County Budget and Tax Rate
The county adopted its $664 million budget for fiscal year 2027 without raising property taxes. Commissioners emphasized fiscal responsibility while funding vital services like schools, public safety, and water infrastructure.
Proposed Fiscal Year 2027 County Budget
County staff presented a preview of the fiscal year 2027 budget, highlighting moderate growth in ad valorem and sales taxes. Officials discussed how property revaluations and municipal tax rate decisions affect county sales tax distributions and property tax burdens for residents.
Union County Rural Land Use Plan and Growth Management
The county adopted a new rural land use plan to manage growth, protect open space in major subdivisions, and establish small commercial centers in rural areas.
Federal HR 1 Administrative Shift for Medicaid and FNS
Federal policy changes under HR 1 will reduce the federal administrative cost share for Medicaid and food nutrition services from 50% to 25% starting in October 2026, potentially leaving Union County with a substantial funding gap unless the state intervenes.
Measles Outbreak and Public Health Response
Union County confirmed its first measles case in over 35 years, following regional outbreaks in neighboring counties and South Carolina. Health officials outlined containment measures, quarantine protocols, and recent drive-through vaccination clinics.