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Eminent Domain Attorneys in Florence, SC
Most people who buy a home and the land it sits on expect that it will be theirs for as long as they choose to reside there. They may choose to pass that home and land along to children or other family members once they pass. It's a very common scenario, but for some residents of Charleston County, it may not be possible due to a highway expansion. Once the expansion starts, these residents could actually lose their land. And while you wouldn't think such an action would be legal in America, truth is often stranger than fiction.
The newly proposed expansion on Highway 41 will expand the highway to two lanes, increasing it to a total of four lanes on most of the roadway and from two to three lanes near the Phillips Community. The project would also start construction of Laurel Hill Parkway - a two-lane road that intersects through the outskirts of Laurel Hill County Park. For the Phillips Community, which sits adjacent to the highway, it could mean the loss of residents' homes and land that have been in their families for generations.
So, what can people like those in the Phillips Community do? They don't want to lose their homes or bear the burden of significantly more traffic around them. On their own, the options can be dour. But with the help of eminent domain attorneys in Florence, SC, these families can receive the just compensation they deserve.
Understanding Eminent Domain in South Carolina
Remember that when you purchase or are given a plot of land, your property rights aren't as absolute as you may think. According to the United States Constitution, the government has the authority to take your property under specific circumstances. Essentially, your property rights are not absolute.
What's interesting is that the government's ability to take your property is actually stated in the Constitution. Even though the Constitution states that "private property shall not be taken for public use without just compensation," in essence, this means the government can take your property if the intended use is valid and they compensate you fairly. The Supreme Court upheld this view in 1876, interpreting that the government had this power based on the Constitution. Eminent domain was frequently used during the construction of the nation's railroad system, often without sufficient limitations on the government.
Unfortunately, many South Carolina residents end up being on the wrong end of the cost-benefit analysis when it comes to fair compensation. That's why, if the government is trying to take your land, it's so important to get in touch with eminent domain attorneys in Florence, SC, as soon as possible. That way, you have someone by your side for any legal proceedings or disputes. At Lauren Taylor Law, we have a proven track record of achieving positive outcomes for our clients in cases where the government has failed to fulfill its legal responsibilities.
- How Can the Government Take Your Property?
- The Process of Eminent Domain in South Carolina
- What Constitutes "Public Use" of Your Land in South Carolina?
- Partial and Easement Taking of Your Land in South Carolina
- Under Eminent Domain, You Must Be Paid Fair Market Value
- How the Government Condemns Your Land with Its Actions
- What Should You Do if Your Land Can Be Taken by the Government?
- Top 3 Reasons to Hire an Eminent Domain Lawyer in South Carolina
- Eminent Domain Attorneys in Florence, SC Fighting for Your Rights
How Can the Government Take Your Property?
There are typically two different ways that the government may take your property. Those include:
- Inverse Condemnation: This happens when you must take action and declare that your property or land was taken (even though you may still own it) so that you may receive compensation.
- Directly: This happens when the government takes explicit action to own your property.
In both scenarios, you could be forced into litigation in order to protect your rights, even though you had no plans on doing so.
The Process of Eminent Domain in South Carolina
When the government wants to acquire your land, they will typically begin by making a formal offer to buy your property. At this point, you may have the opportunity to negotiate with them. If you decide that selling your property is the best option, it's important to work towards reaching an agreement with the government on the sale price. This isn't always a straightforward process because the government may not be willing to offer you a fair amount.
To determine the price of your property, the government will have their appraiser assess the value of the property. This appraiser functions much like an adjuster for an insurance company, many of whom offer lowball pricing. You should know that you have the right to hire your own appraiser to determine an independent valuation. This is often the best course of action if you're considering selling to the government.
If you choose not to sell to the government, they may proceed by filing a lawsuit to initiate the condemnation process. At this point, you can challenge the taking itself by working with eminent domain attorneys in Florence, SC. You can also ask the court to determine the fair market value of the property if the government's valuation is lower than what you believe is fair.
Limits to Eminent Domain in South Carolina
While the government can use its power to take your land, there are limits on its ability to do so. Namely:
- The government must pay landowners a fair market price for their property.
- The land the government takes must be for public use.
As such, there are two reasons why you can sue the government as part of an eminent domain case:
- The government won't compensate you fairly for your property.
- The government is taking your land but not for public use.
Given the history of these cases, you can never trust the government to act fairly. Why? Because local officials often have interests in such matters, and your rights are getting in their way. Sometimes, the only viable route you have is to lawyer up and fight the case in court.
The Process of Eminent Domain in South Carolina
When the government wants to acquire your land, they will typically begin by making a formal offer to buy your property. At this point, you may have the opportunity to negotiate with them. If you decide that selling your property is the best option, it's important to work towards reaching an agreement with the government on the sale price. This isn't always a straightforward process because the government may not be willing to offer you a fair amount.
To determine the price of your property, the government will have their appraiser assess the value of the property. This appraiser functions much like an adjuster for an insurance company, many of whom offer lowball pricing. You should know that you have the right to hire your own appraiser to determine an independent valuation. This is often the best course of action if you're considering selling to the government.
If you choose not to sell to the government, they may proceed by filing a lawsuit to initiate the condemnation process. At this point, you can challenge the taking itself by working with eminent domain attorneys in Florence, SC. You can also ask the court to determine the fair market value of the property if the government's valuation is lower than what you believe is fair.
Limits to Eminent Domain in South Carolina
While the government can use its power to take your land, there are limits on its ability to do so. Namely:
- The government must pay landowners a fair market price for their property.
- The land the government takes must be for public use.
As such, there are two reasons why you can sue the government as part of an eminent domain case:
- The government won't compensate you fairly for your property.
- The government is taking your land but not for public use.
Given the history of these cases, you can never trust the government to act fairly. Why? Because local officials often have interests in such matters, and your rights are getting in their way. Sometimes, the only viable route you have is to lawyer up and fight the case in court.
What Constitutes "Public Use" of Your Land in South Carolina?
Landowners commonly contest whether the taking is genuinely for public use. There are constraints on the government's actions and the reasons for which they can seize your land. The interpretation of these terms by the courts often favors the government. "Public use" does not simply mean that your property would be open to the general public. Instead, the term is more akin to "for the benefit of the public."
Historically, the government expropriated private lands for projects such as bridges and highways. Numerous legal battles arose during the period when the nation was constructing its railroad system. In these instances, the courts typically interpreted "public use" more broadly.
Some of the most common reasons why government landtaking is upheld include the building of structures like:
- Pipelines
- Highways
- Public Buildings
- Utilities
- Railroads and Transit Lines
These are the more "traditional" uses of eminent domain, where the public use would be less in question. However, the law also permits certain utilities to wield the power of eminent domain. For instance, in a recent case in South Carolina, Dominion Energy was granted the authority to acquire homes in order to construct an energy pipeline.
Regrettably, governments have historically tended to misuse this authority, and some courts have even condoned such actions. As an example, courts in Toledo, Ohio, allowed 83 homes to be taken from residents in order to construct a manufacturing plant for Chrysler, which said the plant would create jobs for the public.
If the government is trying to take your land, you should never give up on your property. By working with eminent domain attorneys in Florence, SC, you may be able to stop them by challenging the taking itself. You can also challenge the purpose of the taking and argue that the reason for "public use" is really for private use.
Partial and Easement Taking of Your Land in South Carolina
Many people worry about the government taking over their entire piece of land. However, in some cases, the government may not need all your property and might not want to compensate you for it. They may only require a portion of your land.
In such instances, the government not only has to pay you for the part of the land they are taking, but they also have to compensate for the decreased value of the remaining land that you still own. Additionally, the government may seek to obtain an easement on your land through eminent domain. This easement could be for utilities or access to another area. Once again, the government must compensate you for the land taken and for the reduction in value of the rest of your property.
Under Eminent Domain, You Must Be Paid Fair Market Value
In essence, fair market value represents the amount a willing buyer would offer to a seller for their property. While this concept seems straightforward, applying fair market value in reality can be quite challenging. In many instances, negotiating with the government may be necessary to receive proper compensation for your land. Just like any negotiator, the government typically begins with a low offer and anticipates a counteroffer from you to reach a mutual agreement. Rarely does the government present its best offer right from the start.
Several valuations may be considered to determine your property's fair market value:
The amount of income your property could have produced
Comparison of sales to other similar properties in the area that were recently sold (there could be disagreements pertaining to what is comparable)
The amount of money it would cost to replace your property (and the structures built on it) minus depreciation
In reality, during a trial, both you and the government would have valuation experts testify. First, you'd have to choose the relevant valuation, which the government might dispute. Then, you'd need to apply the appropriate valuation method. There might be a significant difference between your numbers and the government's.
However, even if you couldn't prevent the seizure of the property, many have successfully challenged the government's valuation of their property. Property owners have compelled the government to pay more, and our team of eminent domain attorneys in Florence, SC, has represented many of them in the legal process over the years.
How the Government Condemns Your Land with Its Actions
- The government may not need to attempt to seize your land to potentially owe you money. There are situations where government actions could prevent you from using your land. In many ways, the government has the authority to dictate how you can use your property. They can enact laws and zoning regulations that limit your property usage. To constitute a regulatory taking, the government's actions must completely prevent you from using your land for any economic purpose.
- The government may have a valid justification for its regulations. However, when it comes to compensating you for your land, the government's intentions are irrelevant. What matters is the impact the regulation has on your land usage.
- In addition to regulatory taking, the government may take your land if its actions have caused damage to your property. For example, a neighboring construction project could have flooded your property. They might have trespassed on your land, either temporarily or permanently. This type of taking is referred to as a "de facto" taking, and the government still needs to compensate you when it happens.
For Any Help, Questions or Suggestions, Contact Us
What Should You Do if Your Land Can Be Taken by the Government?
Typically, you'll receive notice regarding the potential acquisition of your property through a letter. But if you're like the residents of the Phillips Community, you might have already heard murmurs that something might happen to your land. If you suspect or find out that the government plans to take your land through eminent domain, you need the help of seasoned eminent domain attorneys in Florence, SC, right away.
The truth is that the government can be just as challenging to deal with as an insurance company. Despite your constitutional rights, they might try to conceal information or offer far less compensation than your property is worth.
In an eminent domain lawsuit, you're essentially challenging the government. While some courts might show some level of deference to the government, they are not given free rein to do as they please. It's within your rights to stand up and contest the government's actions if they violate your rights. But to fight back effectively, your best bet is to work with an eminent domain lawyer from Lauren Taylor Law.
Your attorney will assess the best legal approach for your case, which could involve suing the government or vigorously defending against their lawsuit. You could also negotiate compensation, either before or after the case goes to court.
Top 3 Reasons to Hire an Eminent Domain Lawyer in South Carolina
If you receive notice that your property is being targeted for eminent domain action, also known as condemnation, it's important to seek advice from an eminent domain attorney. Many people won't reach out to a lawyer when dealing with this kind of legal issue because they:
- Mistakenly believe that the government has their best interests at heart and will actually offer fair compensation
- Feel intimidated and believe they must cooperate
- Believe that the taking of their land is really for "public good."
Unfortunately, these assumptions are rarely, if ever, true. In fact, you may actually be more vulnerable and at risk than you originally thought. This misunderstanding illustrates exactly why you should enlist the services of a reputable eminent domain attorney. With the assistance of a legal expert who is well-versed in South Carolina eminent domain law, property owners can safeguard their rights and secure maximum compensation.
Here are the top three ways an eminent domain lawyer can help:
1. Help You Get Just Compensation
It's important to keep in mind that the initial offer from the government for your property is often the lowest amount they think they can get away with. This rarely represents the full and fair compensation you deserve. An attorney has the expertise and resources to ensure that you receive proper compensation for the value of your property, including relocation expenses and more.
In some instances, an eminent domain attorney may be able to secure a higher amount than what the government is proposing. The eminent domain lawyers at Lauren Taylor Law are dedicated to safeguarding your rights and protecting your property
2. Help You Understand Your Rights
Government agencies are not permitted to simply take any property they desire. According to the 5th Amendment, they must prove that the condemnation is genuinely for public use and meets other specific criteria. You have the right to demand that the state fulfill these criteria before seizing your property. Plus, if only a portion of your property is necessary to complete the project, you have the right to safeguard the ownership of the remaining part of your property.
3. Provide Guidance Through the Complicated Process of Eminent Domain in South Carolina
Eminent domain cases and their related laws can be quite intricate and overwhelming for the average property owner. You shouldn't be expected to grasp all the technical terms, and you certainly shouldn't be penalized for not fully understanding the process. That's why having an experienced eminent domain lawyer by your side is valuable on many levels. A skilled eminent domain attorney will assist you through each stage in plain language that you can grasp. With an eminent domain attorney advocating for you throughout your case to safeguard your rights, you stand a better chance of receiving the compensation you rightfully deserve.
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Eminent Domain Attorneys in Florence, SC Fighting for Your Rights
843-790-9009If the government takes your property or prevents you from using it, you have the right to file a lawsuit. The law provides you with the opportunity to stand on equal ground with our government, allowing your lawyer to advocate for your rights in court.
At Lauren Taylor Law, our eminent domain lawyers step in so you don't get pushed around. Our goal is to fight the government on your behalf, so you get the compensation you deserve. Contact our office today to learn more about eminent domain in South Carolina and how our firm can help.
Latest News in Florence, SC
Florence County, South Carolina Scam Alert: Sheriff’s Office Warns Residents About Phone, Text and Gift Card Scams
County Herald Weather Centerhttps://countryherald.com/news/florence-county-south-carolina-scam-alert-sheriffs-office-warns-residents-about-phone-text-and-gift-card-scams/
Florence County, SC – Authorities in Florence County are warning residents about a surge in scams targeting local citizens, with fraudsters allegedly posing as law enforcement officers and government agencies in an attempt to steal money.The Florence County Sheriff’s Office says the most common scam involves a phone call from someone claiming to be with the sheriff’s office who allegedly tells victims they have an outstanding arrest warrant, often for allegedly failing to report for jury duty. The ca...
Florence County, SC – Authorities in Florence County are warning residents about a surge in scams targeting local citizens, with fraudsters allegedly posing as law enforcement officers and government agencies in an attempt to steal money.
The Florence County Sheriff’s Office says the most common scam involves a phone call from someone claiming to be with the sheriff’s office who allegedly tells victims they have an outstanding arrest warrant, often for allegedly failing to report for jury duty. The caller then reportedly offers a way to allegedly avoid arrest by paying a supposed fine with a credit card or gift card.
According to the Florence County Sheriff’s Office, these calls are scams and residents should hang up immediately. Officials say scammers may manipulate caller ID to make it appear as though the call is coming from a local number or even the sheriff’s office itself. Some callers allegedly use local accents or falsely claim to be actual deputies.
Law enforcement stressed that legitimate agencies will never call residents to collect money or request payment information for warrants or court fines.
Authorities also warn about another scam in which a caller allegedly claims a family member is in jail, sometimes locally or even in another country, and urgently needs money wired for bond. Officials say scammers repeatedly rely on fear and urgency to pressure victims into sending money.
Text messages posing as the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles have also been circulating. In those cases, scammers allegedly claim the recipient has unpaid traffic tickets and must pay immediately through a link that appears to be official or risk license or registration suspension.
According to the sheriff’s office, these messages are fraudulent and should be deleted without clicking any links.
Officials say additional scams have involved messages impersonating the Internal Revenue Service, Social Security Administration, or sweepstakes notifications.
Residents are urged to never provide personal or financial information over the phone or online to unknown individuals and to report suspected scams to local authorities.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.Follow us on Instagram & Facebook for more relevant news stories and SUPPORT LOCAL INDEPENDENT NEWS! Have a tip? Message us!
Cheapest gas stations in Florence, South Carolina
Stackerhttps://stacker.com/stories/south-carolina/florencesc/cheapest-gas-stations-florence-south-carolina
Anyone who drives a car understands the sting of having to fill up their tank and pulling into the gas station, only to discover that gas prices have skyrocketed. Paying extra for gas means you have less to spend on other things, which, over time, can really put a crimp in your budget.Cheap Insurance explored some of the reasons behind major changes in gas prices, and compiled a list of the cheapest gas stations in Florence, South Carolina using data from Gas Buddy.Gas prices fluctuate based on several factors, including the co...
Anyone who drives a car understands the sting of having to fill up their tank and pulling into the gas station, only to discover that gas prices have skyrocketed. Paying extra for gas means you have less to spend on other things, which, over time, can really put a crimp in your budget.
Cheap Insurance explored some of the reasons behind major changes in gas prices, and compiled a list of the cheapest gas stations in Florence, South Carolina using data from Gas Buddy.
Gas prices fluctuate based on several factors, including the cost of the key ingredient, crude oil, as well as the available supply and demand for gasoline. If the price of oil rises, a major refinery goes offline, or more drivers are hitting the road, for example, then the cost will increase.
In the first half of 2022, a unique confluence of events led to a surge in gas prices. The increased demand stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic, Russia's invasion of Ukraine, and a slowdown in oil production all contributed to a national all-time high of $4.93 per gallon on average in June 2022.
Seasons also affect gas prices. Demand tends to drop in winter, but the cost also falls because gas stations switch to a different blend of gasoline that's optimal for lower temperatures—and has cheaper ingredients.
Location also matters. The South and Midwest tend to have the lowest gas prices, while the West, including Hawai'i, has the highest. Californians, in particular, pay more for gas on average than any other state. That's because of its high state excise taxes; its isolation from the country's major pipelines, which causes supply issues; and its requirements that mandate a more environmentally friendly blend of gas that costs more to produce and adds to the price per gallon.
No matter where you live, read on to see if you can get a deal on gas near you.
#1. Exxon- Address: 2401 W Palmetto St, Florence, SC- Price: $2.45
#2. Sam's Club- Address: 200 Beltline Dr, SouthCarolina, SC- Price: $2.97
#3. Murphy USA- Address: 411 Pamplico Hwy, Florence, SC- Price: $2.99
#3. Murphy Express (tie)- Address: 111 N. Beltline Dr, Florence, SC- Price: $2.99
#3. Murphy USA (tie)- Address: 2010 S. Irby, Florence, SC- Price: $2.99
#3. Fast Lane (tie)- Address: 210 E National Cemetery Rd, Florence, SC- Price: $2.99
#3. Mobil (tie)- Address: 2024 W Lucas St, Florence, SC- Price: $2.99
#8. Exxon- Address: 2099 N Irby St, Florence, SC- Price: $3.01
#8. Exxon (tie)- Address: 2105 TV Rd, Florence, SC- Price: $3.01
#10. BP- Address: 400 PAMPLICO HWY, Florence, SC- Price: $3.04
Florence 1 Schools’ educator finalist for SC Teacher of the Year
Tonya Brownhttps://wpde.com/news/local/florence-1-schools-educator-finalist-for-state-teacher-of-the-year-royall-elementary-superintendent-mclaurin-elementary-south-carolina
(WPDE) — Florence One Schools’ special education teacher is a finalist for the South Carolina Teacher of the Year.Megan Johnson works as an Exceptional Education teacher at Royall Elementary School and on Thursday morning got quite the surprise.South Carolina State Superintendent of Education Ellen Weaver walked into Johnson’s classroom with a $10,000 check and told Johnson that she was up for the major award.Johnson was very emotional and extremely surprised as she gazed at all of the cameras, along wi...
(WPDE) — Florence One Schools’ special education teacher is a finalist for the South Carolina Teacher of the Year.
Megan Johnson works as an Exceptional Education teacher at Royall Elementary School and on Thursday morning got quite the surprise.
South Carolina State Superintendent of Education Ellen Weaver walked into Johnson’s classroom with a $10,000 check and told Johnson that she was up for the major award.
Johnson was very emotional and extremely surprised as she gazed at all of the cameras, along with Weaver, her team and district administrators in her classroom.
Johnson has been teaching for 19 years and said she does it because she truly loves educating students.
Johnson’s young daughter was in on the surprise and gave her mother a huge hug for being named a finalist.
Before Royall, she also worked at McLaurin Elementary School and Carver Elementary School.
“I am extremely proud of Mrs. Johnson and all that she has accomplished as a teacher,” said Royall Elementary Principal Chris Rogers. “I have worked with her for many years, and I can honestly say her students always come first. She truly loves and cares for her students while giving each of them the best education possible. It is truly an honor to have her as a teacher at Royall Elementary School.”
MORE: SC 'Where the Revolutionary War Was Won' license plate explained
The South Carolina Teacher of the Year (TOY) is a program of the South Carolina Department of Education (SCDE) coordinated by the Office of Educator Services.
The TOY program annually identifies, recognizes, and celebrates exceptional teachers and their effective work in and outside the classroom.
The teacher selected as South Carolina’s Teacher of the Year serves for one school year as a roving ambassador promoting the teaching profession and as the state spokesperson for over 60,000 educators.
South Carolina school districts nominate teachers for consideration as state Teacher of the Year.
The SCDE established the South Carolina Education Foundation as a 501c3 nonprofit arm of the agency in order to facilitate private support for the annual Teacher of the Year Gala and other student and teacher recognition programs.
Florence One Schools Superintendent Dr. Richard O’Malley said Johnson is an excellent teacher who takes pride in her career.
She was Florence One Schools’ Teacher of the Year in 2025.
District administrators called Johnson a “shining example of a teacher who gives her all to her students every day.”
Johnson’s principal and fellow teachers at the school believe she’ll bring home the top prize because educating exceptional children is her pride and joy.
Schools, offices in the Carolinas make changes ahead of potential severe storms
WMBF News Staffhttps://www.wmbfnews.com/2026/03/15/schools-carolinas-make-changes-ahead-potential-severe-storms/
MYRTLE BEACH, SC (WMBF) - Upcoming weather conditions have led to operational changes for several schools and offices.The changes come based on potential severe storms, including strong winds, and potential tornado activity across North and South Carolina.SCHOOLSFlorence-Darlington Technical CollegeThe technical college will be closing early at 12 p.m. Monday.Horry County SchoolsThe district says all schools will dismiss 2 1/2 hours early on Monday and that all after-school...
MYRTLE BEACH, SC (WMBF) - Upcoming weather conditions have led to operational changes for several schools and offices.
The changes come based on potential severe storms, including strong winds, and potential tornado activity across North and South Carolina.
SCHOOLS
Florence-Darlington Technical College
The technical college will be closing early at 12 p.m. Monday.
Horry County Schools
The district says all schools will dismiss 2 1/2 hours early on Monday and that all after-school activities, including Kid-Care and athletic activities, are cancelled for tomorrow.
Horry-Georgetown Technical College
HGTC will close at noon on Monday.
Employees are encouraged to plan accordingly and, where possible, continue working remotely in coordination with their supervisors.
The College is currently observing Spring Break for most academic programs; however, College offices remain open, and some Workforce Development courses and training activities are still taking place.
The Public Schools of Robeson County
On Monday, schools and facilities will be closed.
All after-school activities remain canceled, including Driver’s Education Classes.
Georgetown County School District
On Monday, all schools and offices will be closed.
All after-school activities, including athletic practices, games, meetings, and other events, are cancelled.
Dillon School District Four
Monday will be an eLearning Day.
Dillon District Three
School and all after-school activities will be closed on Monday.
Florence 1 Schools
Florence 1 Schools will operate on an e-learning day Monday.
Students will log into Google Classroom for instruction with their teachers, and attendance will be taken.
All athletics and after school activities are cancelled
Florence County School District 2
The district will operate on an e-learning day Monday.
Students are encouraged to contact their teachers via email or Google Classroom for instructional support.
Staff should work from home unless otherwise.
Florence School District 3
All after-school activities are canceled for Monday, except for J. C. Lynch Elementary and Scranton Elementary after-school programs.
There are no changes to FSD3’s school day or operational schedules.
Florence School District Five
On Monday, all Florence School District Five schools will be closed to students and staff.
After-school activities are canceled.
Marion County School District
The Marion County School District will be closed Monday, and a make-up day will be announced later.
Darlington County School District
The Darlington County School District will be closed Monday.
Atlantic Collegiate Academy
Atlantic Collegiate Academy is having an e-learning day Monday. Assignments for students will be posted by 8 a.m. and must be completed by 4 p.m. for attendance.
OFFICES
Marlboro County
Marlboro County offices will be closed Monday, the county says it will monitor the conditions and provide updates.
Marlboro County Sheriff’s Office
The Marlboro County Sheriff’s Office administration office will be closed to the public Monday.
Deputies will remain on their normal patrol schedules.
City of Darlington
The city of Darlington’s Administrative Offices will be closed Monday and reopen Tuesday at 8:30 a.m.
Darlington County
Darlington County general government services will be closed Monday, which includes services at the courthouse, government building, landfill, recycling/convenience stations, libraries, parks and recreation activities and museum.
All public safety and public works departments will have normal operations.
Stay with WMBF News for updates.
Feel more informed, prepared, and connected with WMBF. For more free content like this, Have feedback that can help us improve?
Florence residents point to sewage flowing into Jeffries Creek behind homes
Alexis Cooperhttps://wpde.com/news/local/florence-residents-point-to-sewage-flowing-into-jeffries-creek-behind-homes
FLORENCE, S.C. (WPDE) — Residents in Florence said a strong, foul odor that has lingered for months in parts of the city’s west end may finally have an explanation.Images and videos circulating online appear to show sewage spilling into Jeffries Creek, raising concerns among neighbors who said they’ve seen raw sewage flowing through the waterway behind their homes.People living near the creek said the overflow includes fecal matter and toilet paper, which they believe may be coming from the city’s sewer ...
FLORENCE, S.C. (WPDE) — Residents in Florence said a strong, foul odor that has lingered for months in parts of the city’s west end may finally have an explanation.
Images and videos circulating online appear to show sewage spilling into Jeffries Creek, raising concerns among neighbors who said they’ve seen raw sewage flowing through the waterway behind their homes.
People living near the creek said the overflow includes fecal matter and toilet paper, which they believe may be coming from the city’s sewer system.
Many suspect the issue could be the source of the unpleasant smell that has affected the area for months.
Photos and videos shared on social media over the weekend show what appears to be sewage flowing from manholes into the creek.
Florence resident, Andy Evans, said the odor has become hard to ignore, especially along one of the city’s busiest corridors.
“It’s an embarrassment, David McLeod Boulevard is a major thoroughfare coming into Florence, and when you reach Golden Corral between Kimbrell’s furniture, the stench is so bad it almost makes you want to regurgitate," Evans said.
According to reports from the South Carolina Department of Environmental Services (SCDES), Jeffries Creek has experienced more than a dozen water overflows since 2023.
The most recent incident was documented less than two weeks ago. A report from the state agency indicates approximately 100,000 gallons of water were released into Jeffries Creek from a manhole, though the discharge description was listed as unknown.
Officials noted that about half an inch of rainfall, along with inflow and infiltration into the sewer system, may have contributed to the overflow.
SCDES said the city is monitoring the site, has applied lime to the affected area, and has begun water sampling.
Jeffries Creek is also protected under Florence’s Unified Development Ordinance as part of a “non-development overlay district,” which is intended to protect water quality and preserve wildlife habitats.
Evans says the continued overflows are concerning, especially in an area meant to be environmentally protected.
“It’s simple,” Evans said. “I simply want them to stop releasing raw sewage into the Jeffries Creek wetland area.”
ABC 15 reached out to SCDES and Florence city officials, asking about the timeline and potential solutions for addressing residents’ complaints about sewage overflow into the creek.
Florence City Manager Scotty Davis responded, saying he plans to provide an update to the city council during their Monday meeting.
This is not the first sewage overflow reported in the area in recent months.
In October of last year, the city said about 5,000 gallons of sewage overflowed into Jeffries Creek following heavy rainfall.
Officials at the time said the incident was addressed with water testing, vacuum truck cleanup, and disinfection of the affected area.
ABC 15 will continue to follow the latest reports and provide updates as more information becomes available.
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