“It has been an honor to serve the county I have always called home” – Councilman Livingston
By Paul Livingston
It’s hard to say goodbye. That’s particularly true when you’re engaged in what was a labor of love. My 35 years as a member of Richland County Council have been driven by an earnest desire to make the community I grew up in a better place to live, work, and play.
However, I will not seek re-election but instead will step down when my term is up at the end of 2026. To the voters of Council District 4, I have asked for your vote repeatedly over the years – and you have so graciously given it. Today, I don’t have an ask. I simply want to say, “thank you.” Thank you for your support, your trust, and your belief in our shared vision to make Richland County the best it can be.
As your humble representative, I did my best to help Richland County become a strong, thriving destination that lures new industry, new residents, and new workers, while also being a place where people who grew up here are proud to call home.
My decision to leave council didn’t come overnight. It came after much reflection. I have always said this seat does not belong to me; it belongs to you, the people. You have blessed me with the privilege of holding it in trust. Leadership is not just about holding on; it is about knowing when to step aside so the next generation, with new ideas and fresh voices, can further the progress we’ve made.
In addition, it is time for me to take time for myself, my family, and other personal pursuits.
We are blessed to have some young, bright, committed leadership on County Council, and it is my sincere hope that the next District 4 representative will be a serious-minded person who will commit to working with this dedicated core, put service above self, and progress above politics. Additionally, this person needs to be someone who can create and communicate a compelling vision of the future, inspiring and guiding others to achieve long-term goals through innovation, collaboration, and strategic direction.
Richland County Council has given me an amazing opportunity to serve. I am honored to have held almost every officer position on the council – including being elected chairman eight different times – and have helped the county improve its infrastructure, recruit lucrative industry, strengthen service delivery for all residents, and more.
As I look back over the years, some of my proudest moments are reflected in my work related to regional cooperation and economic development:
Regional cooperation. I’ve always considered myself a bridge-builder and worked to form strong relationships with local and regional leaders. This has led to successful efforts such as Riverbanks Zoo, The River Alliance, the Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center, and development in downtown and the Vista. Regional cooperation works. We are at our best when we are talking and working with elected officials in the City of Columbia, Arcadia Lakes, Eastover, Forest Acres, and the Town of Irmo, as well as the Town of Blythewood, Lexington County, Kershaw County, Fairfield County, Newberry County, and others throughout the region.
I was also privileged to work with Midlands Technical College and the University of South Carolina on projects that supported those institutions’ missions and strengthened the local community and economy, as well as Benedict College during President David Swinton’s tenure.
Economic development. Positive economic development is a vital component in building a thriving community, creating the foundation for strong neighborhoods, successful businesses, and a high quality of life for everyone. During my time on council, I spearheaded the creation of the county economic development office, advocated for industrial parks, and encouraged opportunities for growing businesses. International Paper, Verizon, the expansion of BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina, the Village at Sandhill, China Jushi, and, most recently, Scout Motors are all big economic development projects I supported. Our achievements in economic development also include the renovation of the Township Auditorium, the relocation of the Columbia Museum of Art, and an expansion of the Richland County Library system.
I have been, and will remain, a staunch advocate of the transportation penny sales tax, which continues to transform the county’s transportation network, improve safety and quality of life for residents, and provide critical infrastructure to support new industry.
We have accomplished a great deal in 35 years. And, I am thankful to those who have worked with me along the way, including the people of Richland County, fellow council members, and many others.
Still, greater things lie ahead, and I’m excited to see what’s next, but from a different vantage point. However, I’ll never be far from the place and people I’ve been honored to serve, because for me, there is no place like home.
