Beaufort County Appoints Michael Moore as New County Administrator Amidst Challenges

Beaufort Welcomes New County Administrator Michael Moore

Beaufort, South Carolina, is officially rolling out the welcome mat for its new County Administrator, Michael Moore, who took on the role starting July 1, 2024. This appointment comes almost a year after the departure of former County Administrator Eric Greenway, and the city is buzzing with curiosity about what Moore will bring to the table.

A New Beginning

Selected by the Beaufort County Council in late May, Michael Moore was confirmed with a heartening display of support. “Mr. Moore has been appointed by unanimous consent of Council to the position of Beaufort County Administrator,” said County Council Vice Chairman Larry McElynn. The Council members are optimistic, expressing their full confidence in Moore’s ability to steer the county through a challenging chapter.

Moore’s background speaks volumes. He comes with an impressive 27-year military career in the U.S. Navy and has also served as the Assistant County Manager in York County, South Carolina, for the last three years. His extensive experience managing day-to-day functions in the military, particularly in security and emergency services, certainly prepares him for the administrative tasks ahead.

Why Beaufort?

When asked why he chose Beaufort County, Moore explained, “First of all, I’m a veteran, and it’s a good military community here.” After living in the state for over three years, he has fallen in love with the area and sees fantastic opportunities for growth. Family also played a role in his decision, as he has extended family living nearby. “The opportunity was here to be the administrator. So, that’s part of what brought me here. I think the community here is great,” he added with evident enthusiasm.

Facing Challenges

However, it’s important to acknowledge that Michael Moore steps into his new role during a turbulent period for Beaufort County. In the last year, the administration faced significant upheaval, with several high-profile departures, including the previous County Administrator, Assistant County Administrator, and Parks and Recreation Director. In addition to personnel changes, the county is currently navigating through legal scrutiny, including ethics investigations and pending lawsuits.

Moore was well aware of the tumultuous backdrop as he discussed the county’s challenges. “I think I had a good lay of the land for the most part,” he shared. He recognizes that what the Council craves is stability after experiencing multiple administrators over just a few years. “They wanted some stability, and I offered that,” he noted.

Accountability and Transparency

In light of recent events, the new administrator aims to instill a stronger sense of accountability within the county government. Transparency has been lacking in past dealings, creating trust issues with the public. Moore is taking steps to rectify this by tightening procurement rules and committing to better communication with the residents. “I think you have to be a person who’s willing to say, ‘no’ at times,” he explained, emphasizing the need for ethical governance and proper business practices.

Moore’s personal investment in the community as a new resident also drives his commitment. “I pay taxes. I’m a resident now, so I’ve got my own personal skin in the game,” he expressed. He is unequivocally committed to ensuring that taxpayer dollars are maximized for community benefit.

The Road Ahead

A significant task on his agenda is the upcoming ballot for the November General Election, where voters will decide on the continuation of the local sales tax known as the “Beaufort Penny.” This decision is critical, as funds from this tax would be used for vital transportation improvements within the county. Moore is focused on educating the public about the projects funded by this tax and addressing any doubts residents may have regarding its renewal.

“All we can do is educate the public. The voters need to understand where we are and how we got here,” he concluded, indicating his dedication to transparency in fiscal matters moving forward.

Conclusion

As Beaufort County welcomes Michael Moore, there is hope on the horizon for a brighter, more stable future. With a commitment to ethical practices and transparency, the community watches eagerly to see how Moore will reshape the county’s governance and restore trust among its residents. This vibrant military community deserves effective leadership, and perhaps Moore is just the person to provide it.