JASPER COUNTY, SC – Last night’s Jasper County Council meeting was marked by a powerful display of public unity as residents erupted in applause following attorney Ronnie Richter’s impassioned demand for transparency regarding county finances.
Richter, representing County Treasurer Michael Skinner, addressed the Council concerning ongoing issues with access to county bank accounts. His call for openness and accountability struck a chord with attendees, who responded with unanimous and enthusiastic support.
“Mr. Skinner was not elected to serve this Committee. He was elected to serve the citizens of Jasper County,” Richter stated, eliciting cheers from the crowd.
The meeting’s charged atmosphere reflected growing public concern over the dispute between Treasurer Skinner and the County Council. Skinner, elected in November 2022, has been seeking access to all County bank accounts, having been granted access to only 25 thus far.
Following the meeting, Richter provided an update on recent legal developments: “While the South Carolina Supreme Court has declined to accept Mr. Skinner’s Petition for a Writ of Mandamus, we remain undeterred. We will re-file the matter immediately in the circuit court.”
In response to concerns about legal costs, Bland Richter Law Firm has adjusted its engagement terms to mirror those of the attorneys engaged by the County. “We’re committed to responsible fiscal management and transparency,” Richter emphasized. “Our goal is to ensure that Jasper County residents are not unduly burdened by legal costs while we provide necessary support to the County Treasurer.”
The overwhelming public response at the council meeting underscores the community’s desire for resolution and transparency in county financial matters. Treasurer Skinner maintains his willingness to suspend litigation if granted access to the County’s bank accounts, a stance that received vocal support from meeting attendees.
As legal proceedings continue, the residents of Jasper County have made their voices heard, demanding accountability and open financial practices from their elected officials.
The meeting comes in the wake of a legal filing by Treasurer Skinner, who is seeking a Writ of Mandamus to compel county officials to grant him access to all county bank accounts and records. This action stems from a series of challenges Skinner has faced since taking office on July 1, 2023, including:
- Discovery of 116 bank accounts for Jasper County and its subdivisions, with access to only 25 of them
- Lack of access to the remaining accounts, hindering oversight capabilities
- Multiple audits within a short period
- Removal of essential office equipment and documents
- Absence of transition support from the outgoing Treasurer
Treasurer Skinner and his legal team remain committed to pursuing full access to all County accounts, viewing it as essential for fulfilling the duties of the Treasurer’s office and serving the interests of Jasper County residents. For questions regarding the situation, please contact Ronnie Richter at [email protected].