Residents of Chatham County voiced their concerns during the June 27, 2025, Commission meeting, primarily focusing on proposed tax increases and the perceived lack of adequate county services. Homeowners expressed frustration over rising taxes while feeling that essential services, such as street maintenance and storm response, were insufficient.

One resident, who has lived in the area for nearly four decades, highlighted the lack of timely response to storm damage, citing a fallen tree that remained unaddressed for months. He criticized the county for wanting to increase taxes without providing the necessary services, stating, "We don't get the services in the area, period." This sentiment was echoed by others who questioned the county's priorities and the effectiveness of its service delivery.

Another homeowner, Lori Salter, raised concerns about the fairness of the proposed tax structure, suggesting that it disproportionately impacts those who have owned their homes for many years. She advocated for a more equitable calculation method for taxes, emphasizing the need for a system that considers the current financial realities of homeowners.

The meeting also featured discussions about the county's budget, with several residents urging the Commission to focus on controlling expenses rather than increasing taxes. Business owner Lowell Kronowitz expressed concern that the county's approach seemed predetermined and called for a more responsible management of public funds.

Kaveh Malakouti, another resident, pointed out the significant increase in the proposed budget and questioned the necessity of hiring additional staff when many positions remained unfilled. He suggested exploring alternative revenue sources, such as property taxes from large institutions like SCAD, to alleviate the burden on residents.

The Commission responded to these concerns by explaining the legal limitations on their ability to address certain issues, particularly regarding maintenance on private property. They encouraged residents to report specific problems through official channels to ensure proper follow-up.

As the meeting concluded, the overarching theme was clear: residents are seeking a more responsive and responsible government that prioritizes their needs and addresses the challenges posed by rising costs and insufficient services. The discussions highlighted a community eager for change and a government that must navigate complex budgetary constraints while striving to meet the expectations of its constituents.