Georgetown County recently concluded its third annual Taxpayer Academy — a free, interactive program offered each April in celebration of National County Government Month. The 2025 session welcomed 14 participants who brought enthusiasm and curiosity as they explored the many departments and operations that make up Georgetown County Government. One and all, they said the same thing: they’d previously had no idea exactly how much the county is responsible for.

The Taxpayer Academy is designed to give residents a behind-the-scenes look at how their local government functions and how tax dollars are spent. It also provides an opportunity to connect directly with the people who serve the community as part of Team Georgetown.

This year’s class toured the county airport and landfill, met with department directors, visited the Port of Georgetown property, and hiked at Rocky Point Community Forest while learning about the GOAT (Georgetown Outdoor Adventures) program. Participants also experienced a K-9 demonstration at the Sheriff’s Office, tested out impairment-simulation “drunk goggles,” and gained a deeper understanding of the services and infrastructure that support life in Georgetown County.

The 2025 Taxpayer Academy concluded with a brief graduation ceremony on May 1, in which each participant received a certificate of completion. Georgetown County extends its thanks and congratulations to the graduates and encourages all residents to consider joining a future session of the Taxpayer Academy to learn more about their government and how it serves them. Anyone interested in joining the 2026 Academy is encouraged to contact Jackie Broach at jbroach@gtcounty.org or (843) 545 3164.