Stronger Bonds

Stronger Bonds - Live from the GFOA!

On this special episode of Stronger Bonds, the team takes the stage live from the 2026 South Carolina Government Finance Officers Association (SC GFOA) Conference. In front of an audience of public finance leaders and professionals from across the state, the conversation dives into the power of relationships, leadership, communication, and collaboration in local government. From real-world challenges to meaningful success stories, this live session highlights how stronger connections create stronger communities. Whether you attended the conference or are tuning in afterward, this episode offers practical insights, authentic conversations, and plenty of takeaways for anyone working to build trust and impact within their organization. https://gfoasc.org/ [https://gfoasc.org/] Parker Poe - Government & Municipalities [https://www.parkerpoe.com/industries/government-municipalities] Emily Luther [https://www.parkerpoe.com/attorneys/emily-s-luther] Ray Jones [https://www.parkerpoe.com/attorneys/ray-e-jones] Do you have a question, a topic idea, or a request? Please email us at StrongerBonds@parkerpoe.com. Stronger Bonds is recorded and produced by Robby Woodard [https://www.linkedin.com/in/robbywoodard/].  If you like golf, check out BestBall.com [https://bestball.com/].

When Company Comes Callin'

This episode, Emily & Ray are joined by Jeff Shacker — a new member on the Parker Poe Consulting team — to explore how local governments can effectively navigate private development proposals, emphasizing due diligence, strategic planning, and managing expectations to foster successful public-private partnerships. Parker Poe - Government & Municipalities [https://www.parkerpoe.com/industries/government-municipalities] Emily Luther [https://www.parkerpoe.com/attorneys/emily-s-luther] Ray Jones [https://www.parkerpoe.com/attorneys/ray-e-jones] Do you have a question, a topic idea, or a request? Please email us at StrongerBonds@parkerpoe.com. Stronger Bonds is recorded and produced by Robby Woodard [https://www.linkedin.com/in/robbywoodard/].  If you like golf, check out BestBall.com [https://bestball.com/].

Affordable Housing Property Tax Exemption

This episode explores the complex relationship between government investments in affordable housing and the associated public costs, focusing on property tax exemptions in South Carolina and North Carolina. We discuss the role of nonprofits, legislative changes, and the ongoing debate about ensuring effective and compliant affordable housing initiatives. Listen to our previous episode on Affordable Housing [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2390194/episodes/15829621]  Parker Poe - Government & Municipalities [https://www.parkerpoe.com/industries/government-municipalities] Emily Luther [https://www.parkerpoe.com/attorneys/emily-s-luther] Ray Jones [https://www.parkerpoe.com/attorneys/ray-e-jones] Do you have a question, a topic idea, or a request? Please email us at StrongerBonds@parkerpoe.com. Stronger Bonds is recorded and produced by Robby Woodard [https://www.linkedin.com/in/robbywoodard/].  If you like golf, check out BestBall.com [https://bestball.com/].

Installment Purchase Revenue Bonds

In this episode of Stronger Bonds, hosts Ray Jones and Emily Luther delve into the complexities of Installment Purchase Revenue Bonds (IPRBs), a flexible financing tool for local governments. They discuss the mechanics of IPRBs, the role of nonprofits in facilitating these bonds, and the impact of recent legislative changes on their use. The conversation highlights the benefits and challenges of IPRBs, emphasizing their importance in funding essential community projects while navigating the intricacies of local government financing. Key Topics: * The critical difference between IPRBs and general obligation debt, and why nonprofits are central to this process * How local governments can use revenue sources beyond property taxes—like development fees, hospitality taxes, and even infrastructure impact fees—to make installment payments * The market’s view of IPRBs, their cost relative to traditional bonds, and why they aren’t just "cheaper" or a loophole * Legislative tweaks: what recent bills could mean for this flexible financing tool and your community’s growth plans * Real-world examples of cities using IPRBs for projects that serve development, all while preserving borrowing capacity for emergencies and essential infrastructure Link to Senate Bill 891: https://www.scstatehouse.gov/sess126_2025-2026/bills/891.htm [https://www.scstatehouse.gov/sess126_2025-2026/bills/891.htm] Parker Poe - Government & Municipalities [https://www.parkerpoe.com/industries/government-municipalities] Emily Luther [https://www.parkerpoe.com/attorneys/emily-s-luther] Ray Jones [https://www.parkerpoe.com/attorneys/ray-e-jones] Do you have a question, a topic idea, or a request? Please email us at StrongerBonds@parkerpoe.com. Stronger Bonds is recorded and produced by Robby Woodard [https://www.linkedin.com/in/robbywoodard/].  If you like golf, check out BestBall.com [https://bestball.com/].

You won’t believe how much a fire truck costs…

Most local governments spend millions on fire trucks and police cars—yet many citizens have no idea just how much these essential services really cost. In this eye-opening episode of Stronger Bonds, Ray Jones and Emily Luther peel back the curtain on the true price of public safety and municipal expenses, revealing costs that have doubled since 2020 and explaining why your tax dollars are more vital—and expensive—than ever. If you've ever wondered why local taxes keep inching upward or how governments juggle rising costs with limited revenue, this is your go-to episode.  This episode is perfect for elected officials, public servants, and engaged citizens alike— anyone wanting a behind-the-scenes look at how local governments stretch limited funds to serve their communities. Recognize the complexities behind those tax bills and walk away with a new appreciation for the hard decisions (and high costs) involved in keeping your town safe and thriving. Whether you're attending a city council meeting, managing a municipal project, or simply curious about why local taxes keep rising, this episode will equip you with insights to navigate the delicate dance of budgeting, inflation, and public service. It’s a conversation you can’t afford to miss. https://greenvillejournal.com/news/explainer-how-municipalities-develop-budgets- pay-for-operations/ [https://greenvillejournal.com/news/explainer-how-municipalities-develop-budgets- pay-for-operations/] Parker Poe - Government & Municipalities [https://www.parkerpoe.com/industries/government-municipalities] Emily Luther [https://www.parkerpoe.com/attorneys/emily-s-luther] Ray Jones [https://www.parkerpoe.com/attorneys/ray-e-jones] Do you have a question, a topic idea, or a request? Please email us at StrongerBonds@parkerpoe.com. Stronger Bonds is recorded and produced by Robby Woodard [https://www.linkedin.com/in/robbywoodard/].  If you like golf, check out BestBall.com [https://bestball.com/].