As part of our continuing effort to bring local news that’s impactful to our readers, we’ve proactively reached out to the candidates running for York County Council.
We will not manipulate their answers in any way, we’ll simply provide to you, our readers. This will allow you to make an informed choice.
This week, we’ll introduce Debi Cloninger
As I look back on my first four years serving on York County Council, I am incredibly proud of what we have accomplished together.
In June, District 7 voters placed their trust in me once again by choosing me as the Republican nominee for County Council. I am deeply grateful for that support.
As we head toward the November 3 general election, where I am unopposed, I wanted to take a moment to look back at the work we have done together over the past four years—and at the priorities I will continue fighting for in my next term.
I STOOD WITH OUR COMMUNITY ON SILFAB SOLAR
I was one of only three members of County Council who voted NO on the Silfab deal from the very beginning.
As concerns surrounding the facility grew, I continued opposing the use of hazardous chemicals at the site and standing with residents and the Fort Mill School District in efforts to protect our community.
My position has remained consistent: the health, safety and quality of life of the people who live here must come first.
I HELPED PUT THE BRAKES ON NEW DATA CENTERS
As Chair of the Planning and Zoning Committee, I helped advance a nine-month moratorium on new data centers while York County works to strengthen its ordinances.
These massive projects can have significant impacts on electricity, water, noise, infrastructure and neighboring communities. Before more are approved, I believe York County needs strong rules in place to protect the people who already call this county home.
I HAVE FOUGHT OVERDEVELOPMENT IN DISTRICT 7
Growth is coming to York County. The question is whether we manage it responsibly.
During my first term, I have never voted to approve a high-density development project in the unincorporated portion of District 7.
I have also worked alongside residents fighting overdevelopment, including in the Regent Park area.
Growth should make sense for the communities already here—not simply for the developers proposing the next project.
I HAVE FOUGHT FOR THE ROADS FORT MILL DESPERATELY NEEDS
Anyone who lives in Fort Mill knows our infrastructure has struggled to keep pace with explosive growth.
I have been a strong supporter of Pennies for Progress and major transportation investments in our area, including improvements to Highway 21, Highway 51 and other critical corridors.
Roughly $400 million in road funding has been directed toward the Fort Mill area, and I will continue advocating for infrastructure investment that keeps pace with our population growth.
I HELPED DELIVER A STRONG 2027 BUDGET WITH A TAX CUT
During the 2027 budget process, I worked with fellow fiscal conservatives on Council to reduce the initial spending proposal while still protecting the core services our residents depend on.
The final budget funds major capital improvements, public safety and critical county positions, including additional sheriff’s deputies, firefighters and court staff.
It also includes a 3.5% merit increase for county employees.
And rather than increasing taxes, we reduced the county millage rate.
I believe government has an obligation to live within its means, prioritize essential services and remember that every dollar we spend first belonged to a taxpayer.
I AM CONTINUING TO PUSH FOR THE DEMOLITION OF MORNINGSTAR TOWER
Fort Mill residents have been looking at the unfinished MorningStar tower for far too long.
I have been working directly with MorningStar on the paperwork and agreements necessary to move the demolition process forward.
It may not be the flashiest issue County Council deals with, but it matters to the people who have lived with this eyesore for years, and I will continue pushing toward a resolution.
I HAVE HELPED MOVE A NEW YORK COUNTY ANIMAL SHELTER FORWARD
York County desperately needs an improved animal shelter facility.
During my first term, I have continued working to move plans for a new shelter forward so our county has a facility that better serves our animals, employees, volunteers and residents.
LOOKING AHEAD…
There is still plenty of work ahead.
Our county is growing rapidly. Traffic remains frustrating. Development pressure is not going away. We must continue protecting our communities, supporting public safety, investing in infrastructure and respecting the taxpayers who make it all possible.
Serving District 7 has been one of the greatest honors of my life.
Thank you to everyone who placed their trust in me during the primary and to everyone who has called, emailed, attended meetings, spoken up and worked alongside me over the past four years.
Early voting begins October 19, and the general election is November 3.
I’m grateful for the opportunity to continue serving District 7, and I’m ready to keep working hard! Debi Cloninger
Sign up for our Sunday Spectator. Delivered to your inbox every Sunday, with all the news from the week.
Thomas Hyslip lives in Tega Cay with his wife and daughter. After 27 years in the U.S. Army and Federal Law Enforcement, he retired to pursue his passion for teaching. Tom is now an Assistant Professor of Instruction at the University of South Florida. In 2 short years he has won 10 awards from the South Carolina Press Association, including first place in column writing, education beat reporting and best podcast.
