Subcommittee votes to extend property powers for pre-home-rule special purpose districts

The Subcommittee of Judiciary approved a favorable report on a bill to prevent a scheduled sunset of a 2024 law that allowed special purpose districts created before home rule to acquire, hold and convey personal and real property when necessary to carry out their duties.

Miss Benson summarized the background: the 2024 law aided parks and recreation districts and similar entities but included a sunset clause added by Senator Malloy because of concerns about a district selling assets. Gary Pope, attorney with Pope Flynn, said he represented the Richland County Recreation Commission and told the committee that removing the sunset "simply allows for them to convey, acquire and transact in property" needed to carry out public purposes and does not change corporate powers.

Committee members moved and seconded a favorable report and the chair called the voice vote; the ayes carried, with proxies noted. With that vote the committee concluded its business and adjourned.