The News
First Monday is a Republican Business Forum allowing members of the club to become acquainted with and participate in discussions with elected officials, business leaders, candidates and party leaders.
Greenville County School Board Chair – Dr. Carolyn Styles
First Monday was pleased to host Dr. Carolyn Styles, Chairman of the Greenville County School Board.
Dr. Styles discussed the responsibilities of the School Board from her perspective as a 30-year teacher and as principal of a National Blue Ribbon Showcase School (Skyland Elementary School) that received the United States Department of Education National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence Award. She spoke about the GCSB Vision – “Students inspired, supported, and prepared for their next opportunities in life, education, and employment” and their Mission – “We build college and career ready graduates by connecting students to engaging classes and meaningful experiences that cultivate world-class knowledge and skills, while developing character, leadership, and citizenship.”
Greenville Housing Fund
First Monday was pleased to host Tiffany Santagati and Amber Steward (Bryan Brown was unable to attend) of the Greenville Housing Fund.
They spoke about housing trends and the need to identify opportunities for ‘Affordable Housing’ in our area. The main discussion was around who qualifies for this type of housing – everyone from Greenville County School District Teachers to Solid Waste Equipment Operators to local Firefighters and Police to the Greenlink Bus Driver. They discussed affordable housing funding sources, community partners, investment, and development in our area. Learn more at www.greenvillehousingfund.com
Rep. Bruce Bannister
First Monday was pleased to host Rep. Bruce Bannister, Chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee.
He spoke about providing hurricane relief to help South Carolinians recover from tropical storms Debby and Helene. Cutting income taxes, in this year’s budget, the Legislature doubled the law’s scheduled reduction to $200 million. Reinstating K-12 scholarships for private schools and school choice expansion. Modernization of the state’s energy generation capacity and a review of major health agency consolidation. And reducing insurance rates for restaurants that serve alcohol and putting magistrates through a screening process.