Policy makers in South Carolina should question the tendency towards centralized control or direct oversight of port development and expansion. The states inability to bear the capital costs of infrastructure development needs to be a recognized factor in port expansion. The South Carolina Port Authority has expressed interest in pursuing public-private partnerships, the model recommended by economists both nationally and internationally. Such an approach should be implemented in any future port expansions, including Charleston and Jasper. The temptation to micromanage comes at a heavy cost to the tax payer as well as port efficiency…
By South Carolina Policy Council
Since 1986 the South Carolina Policy Council Education Foundation has advocated innovative policy ideas that advance the principles of limited government and free enterprise. The Policy Council is the state’s meeting place for business leaders, policymakers, and academics – as well as engaged citizens – who want to see South Carolina become the most free state in the nation. For questions or comments on the articles on this website, please email Research Director Jamie Murguia.