Charleston tax hike approved

Charleston City Council passed an emergency tax increase on Tuesday after a public hearing and debate that took over two hours to be completed.

The change, which ultimately passed after a 7-6 vote with Charleston Mayor Joe Riley in favor, will increase property taxes by $3.48 million a year. Taxes will bump up $35 a year for homes valued at $250,000 or more.

Riley proposed the tax increase to employ 19 new police officers, whose primary duty will be to moniter city elementary schools. It will also fund the construction and operation of two new firestations - one in West Ashley and one on Daniel Island.

The city council also approved a set of new skateboarding regulations for the Downtown area. These rules will be enforced during an upcoming six-month trial period.

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