ENDORSEMENTS
LOCAL LEADERS AGREE
"So we only make endorsements in races for auditor, recorder of deeds, clerk of court, coroner and treasurer when we believe voters need to know there's a clear choice between someone who's competent and someone who isn't.
Two years ago, we called on voters to reject Democrat Michael Miller's reelection as Charleston County register of deeds, because he had demonstrated his incompetence. (We had endorsed GOP opponent Tom Hartnett four years earlier because Mr. Miller seemed like he wasn't up to the job.) Four years ago, we endorsed Republican Clerk of Court Julie Armstrong, who also faced an opponent who had no business running.
This year, we are endorsing Democratic Treasurer Mary Tinkler for similar reasons.
The treasurer oversees several employees who collect property tax payments and divvy up the proceeds to municipalities, the school district, special purpose districts and other public agencies — which is crucial to the smooth operation of our local governments. It's understandable why someone would want the job, which pays about $168,000.
Ms. Tinkler, who is seeking a third four-year term, has worked to improve payment options, including allowing taxpayers to pay in advance in installments, as well as the addition of credit and debit card readers at the main office and the county satellite offices that accept tax payments. Four years ago, her office began issuing motor vehicle decals upon payment of car taxes, saving taxpayers a trip to the Department of Motor Vehicles."
Post and Courier endorsement cont.
"Her opponent, a restaurateur and businessman, has implied the position has the authority to reduce late charges for property taxes paid after the Jan. 15 due date, but that is set by state law, not by treasurers. He also has pledged to introduce a discount program for people who pay their tax bills well in advance of that due date, but again, the treasurer does not have that power under state law. What this means is that Ms. Tinkler's opponent either does not understand the position or is deliberately misleading voters into believing he can give them something he cannot. Either way, we see it as a disqualifying problem.
Ms. Tinkler has an edge here, having served as a state representative and as president of the South Carolina Association of Auditors, Treasurers and Tax Collectors. She also serves on the executive board of the National Association of County Collectors, Treasurers and Finance Officers and is that group's liaison to the board of the National Association of Counties. She has built relationships and credibility on the local, state and national level.
The treasurer has no authority over how other elected officials or local governments spend public money; by law she simply distributes the money as directed, and Ms. Tinkler tells us that while she is proud of her record, she is committed to taking further steps to streamline the treasurer's office operation, make paying easier and reduce waste."
To read the full endorsement:
https://www.postandcourier.com/.../article_dcf00206-8649...
“Mary Tinkler for county treasurer. A former S.C. House member with a zeal for public service, Tinkler brings boatloads of experience as a responsible steward of more than $2 billion in government assets. Her job is not yet done.”
"In the Charleston County treasurer's race, we warmly endorse Mary Tinkler.
Intelligent, diligent and always on the side of the local taxpayer, her continued service in the treasurer's office will be a blessing for residents countywide."
Dr. Mary Thornley
Educator and Executive Leader
“I have known Mary Tinkler to be an innovative, thoughtful, and consistent leader. Passion for public service and hard work are at the core of everything Mary does.”
Hon. Lonnie Hamilton, III
Former Chairman, Charleston County Council, Educator, and Jazz Musician
“In the last 7 years as county treasurer, Mary has proven herself to be extremely knowledgeable and professional. Mary is a problem solver. Her ability to navigate state and local government makes her an incredible asset to all of Charleston County.”
Mayor will Haynie
Town of Mount Pleasant
“Under Mary’s leadership, I have found the treasurer’s office is highly responsive and informed. Her unwavering commitment to exceptional service to citizens across our large and diverse community Is exemplified by how smoothly the office runs and the citizen outreach program she started. ”
Joan
Robinson-Berry
Global Corporate Executive & Charleston County Aviation Authority Board Member
“From being elected as the first female treasurer in Charleston County, to her unwavering dedication to innovation, Mary is a leader every citizen of Charleston County can be proud to support.”
Karen Hollings
Charleston County, Register of Deeds
“Mary is approachable, a model of professionalism, and will always go to bat for taxpayers across the county.”
Leon Stavrinakis
Representative, SC House - District 119
“Whenever Mary fights for taxpayers in Columbia, I listen. Mary knows the law, and she works for real change. All that combined with her relationship with key state policymakers has led to ideas that save taxpayers time and money.”
Dr. Melvin Brown, III
Navy Commander (retired), Naval Academy Graduate, Board member, - MUSC, SC Aquarium and First Capitol Bank
“The values of stability, good government, fairness, and equity are echoed in how Mary leads the treasurer’s office. Public service is who she is. We are blessed to have Mary at the helm.”
HON. Mike Sottile
Former Mayor, Isle of Palms &
Representative, SC House, District 112- R
"Mary understands the saying
'all politics are local' holds.
She has proven to be a trustworthy steward of our money and treats all taxpayers fairly regardless of political affiliation."
Peter Tecklenburg
Charleston County, Auditor
“Mary’s dedication to customer service and process improvement has not only improved her office but many of other county offices as well.”
Mayor Patrick O'Niel
Sullivan's Island