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 Dorchester County to Host 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony
Dorchester County invites the community to join in honoring the memory of those who lost their lives on September 11, 2001, during a special Remembrance Ceremony. The event will take place on Wednesday, September 11, 2024, at 8:30 AM at Davis-Bailey Park.
The ceremony will feature a presentation of colors by the Dorchester County Sheriff's Office Honor Guard, the National Anthem performed by Shambra Pellum of Dorchester County Consolidated Dispatch, and a wreath-laying ceremony. Remarks will be delivered by Harriet Holman, Dorchester County Council Member, Chief Deputy Sam Richardson, Dorchester County Sheriff's Office, along with additional historical context provided by Carter Jones, Heritage Coordinator, SC Firefighters’ Association.
This event offers an opportunity for the community to come together in remembrance and reflection. All are welcome to attend.
 Dorchester County North Charleston Library Branch Celebrates One Year Anniversary
As we celebrate the first anniversary of the North Charleston Library branch, we reflect on an incredible year of connections, programs, reading, and fun! Since opening, the library has welcomed over 87,000 visitors, becoming a vibrant hub for learning and exploration. We're especially proud to have issued more than 5,000 new or replacement library cards, a clear sign of our commitment to making resources accessible to all.
This milestone marks just the beginning. As we look to the future, we're excited to continue serving the community, offering even more opportunities for learning and connection. Here's to many more years of growth and discovery at the North Charleston Library!
 Tropical Storm Debby in Dorchester County
Tropical Storm Debby posed a serious threat to Dorchester County, with early predictions warning of up to 30 inches of rain, which could have led to catastrophic flooding. In preparation, the County's Emergency Operations Center (EOC) was fully activated, moving to OPCON 2 and then OPCON 1 as the situation intensified. Key preparations included opening two sandbag distribution sites, where over 23,000 sandbags were filled and distributed to residents, and setting up shelters at Woodland High and DuBose Middle schools to ensure the safety of those in flood-prone areas.
As the storm continued, County staff took steps to minimize damage and protect the community. Our Dorchester County Swift Water Rescue Team played a critical role, performing 48 rescues during the storm—an incredible effort that undoubtedly saved lives. Teams from the Dorchester County Sheriff's Office alerted over 300 residents along the Edisto River, and additional sandbag distribution sites were opened. Meanwhile, our Consolidated Dispatch team handled almost 2,100 calls, ensuring that every emergency was addressed promptly. A special thanks to Charlie from Consolidated Dispatch, who led the cooking team that prepared over 2,000 meals, keeping our responders and EOC staff fueled and ready to serve. The Call Center volunteers also did a great job, answering 1,298 calls from residents seeking assistance during the storm.
Even with the weather’s slight reprieve, the storm ended up causing significant disruptions after backbuilding thunderstorms caused major flash flooding and nearly 100 road closures. The Edisto River crested at over 17 feet, adding to the challenges. Despite these obstacles, Dorchester County's coordinated response, supported by local, state, and federal partners, demonstrated the community's resilience and preparedness. The ongoing recovery efforts include road repairs, water and sewer repairs, damage assessments, and community outreach, all aimed at ensuring a swift return to normalcy for the residents of Dorchester County. The collective efforts during Tropical Storm Debby are a testament to the strength and dedication of our emergency management teams and partners.
 Dorchester County Fire Rescue Explorer Program
Ignite your future in fire and emergency services with the Dorchester County Fire Rescue Explorer Program, designed for young men and women aged 14 and older. This program offers hands-on experience, leadership development, and insight into fire service careers through real-world training with experienced firefighters and emergency personnel. Participants will engage in live drills, learn firefighting techniques, and gain emergency medical response skills, all while contributing to community safety and working as part of a dedicated team.
To join, applicants must be between 14-20 years old, maintain at least a "C" average, and show a strong interest in fire service. Weekly meetings include training exercises, educational workshops, and opportunities for ride-alongs with seasoned professionals. Interested? Download the application form and submit it to the Dorchester County Fire Rescue Headquarters or email RFord@DorchesterCountySC.gov. For more details, call (843) 832-0214.
 Dorchester County and The Salvation Army Are Ready to Do More Christmas!
This year, we’re excited once again to partner with The Salvation Army’s Angel Tree Program to reach families in Dorchester County. Our goal is to ensure that each child receives three items of clothing requested by their parents/guardians and three new toys from their wish list.
Angel Tree Program Sign-Up Dates for Dorchester County Residents:
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Saturday, October 5th: 10 AM - 1 PM
St. George Library, 506 N. Parler Ave., St. George
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Tuesday, October 8th: 12 PM to 4 PM,
N. Charleston Library, 8620 Patriot Blvd., N. Charleston
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Wednesday, October 9th: 5 PM - 8 PM
Faith Hispana, 3001 Landing Pkwy., N. Charleston
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Saturday, October 12th: 10 AM to 1 PM
Summerville Library, 76 Old Trolley Rd., Summerville
Important: These dates are for Dorchester County residents ONLY. Proof of residency will be required. If you live outside of Dorchester County, please sign up at another Salvation Army location.
Documents Required for Sign-Up:
- State-issued ID showing Dorchester County residency.
- Original birth certificate or passport for children 13 years and under (Medicaid cards, government, school, or health records with date of birth are also accepted).
- September 2024 EBT printout or current 6-month recert. EBT cards, online apps, and texts are NOT accepted.
- Proof of address (lease, mortgage coupon, utility bill less than 2 months old, letter from their school with the applicant's address)
- Proof of income (If not receiving EBT, proof of ALL household income and ALL household expenses - must be on paper, apps will NOT be accepted.
Additional Information Needed:
- Child's shoe size.
- Child's clothing sizes.
- Three wish list items (No bicycles or electronic devices over $50).
Please do not bring children to the sign-up locations and have all required documents to start your application. As a reminder you must sign up in person at one of the locations listed above.
If you have any questions, please call The Salvation Army at (843) 747-5271.
 Learn More About Your VA Benefits!
Dorchester County will be hosting this month's VA Benefits & Disability Claims Workshop on September 27. Topics of discussion include an overview of disability benefits, dependency and indemnity compensation, and pension eligibility. There will also be a Q&A session at the end.
Location: Summerville County Council Chambers (500 N. Main St., Summerville).
Date: Friday, Septmber 27, 2024.
Time: 2:00pm to 4:00pm.
For any questions about the program, please call (843) 832-0050. Don't miss your chance to learn more about your VA benefits!
 Congratulations to Colby Hoff, our Employee of the Quarter!
We're excited to recognize Colby from our Facilities Department for his exceptional commitment and positive impact. Starting with us right after graduating from Dorchester Academy, Colby may have jokingly said he wanted to “cut grass for Dorchester County,” but he has since become one of our most valued facilities workers.
Colby’s dedication is unmatched—he’s always ready to lend a hand, even on weekends and holidays, and his positive attitude and warm smile brighten everyone’s day. Whether he’s tackling tasks beyond his usual duties or simply spreading kindness, Colby truly embodies the spirit of our Dorchester County Government.
We are incredibly fortunate to have such a dedicated and caring individual on our team. Thank you, Colby, for all you do!
 Congratulations to Paramedic Crew Chief Tyler Caswell, our First Responder of the Quarter!
As an outstanding crew chief, Tyler is an invaluable asset to Dorchester County. He goes above and beyond in every aspect of his work, providing top-notch medical care to patients while always looking out for his team. His dedication doesn’t stop there—Tyler spends his free time mentoring and teaching his colleagues, especially those pursuing further education like paramedic certification.
We are incredibly fortunate to have such a committed, helpful, and motivated individual serving our community. Tyler, thank you for everything you do! We're proud to have you on our team.
 Register to Vote
Do you need to update your address? Have a new last name? Click the link to update your voter registration status if your information isn't current. For more information, please contact the Voter Registration and Elections Office at 843-563-0132.
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