Dorchester: Merger Talks Between DD2 and DD4 Back on Agenda

Deal News | Mar 04, 2025 | EIN

The potential merger of Dorchester County's District 2 and District 4 has resurfaced as a key agenda item for DD2's upcoming board meeting. A public meeting recently saw polarized opinions on the merger, with opponents citing concerns about educational priorities, potential tax influences, and regional representation. Proponents, citing Act 388, argue the merger could optimize school funding in response to the financial layout post-Act 388. Representative Gary Brewer emphasized the necessity for consolidation to maximize funding benefits, despite concerns that it may lead to job reductions. Both districts await further public information meetings, expressing continued commitment to their communities. The path to potential consolidation is anticipated to be lengthy, potentially spanning at least two years.

Sectors

Education
Public Sector

Geography

United States – The article is centered around Dorchester County in South Carolina, USA.
South Carolina – The involved entities, DD2 and DD4, as well as the legislative discussions around the merger are specific to this state.
Dorchester County – The consolidation involves school districts from Dorchester County, placing it at the center of the discussion.

Industry

Education – This industry classification is relevant as the article discusses potential consolidation of two school districts in Dorchester County.
Public Sector – The article involves government actions and legislative implications with Representative Gary Brewer and Act 388 playing significant roles in the merger discussion.

Financials

6% – Refers to the tax funding directed at properties under Act 388, a central point in the merger discussion.

Participants

Name	Role	Type	Description
Dorchester District 2	Target company	Government	DD2 is one of the school districts considering a merger with DD4 to optimize financial structures under Act 388.
Dorchester District 4	Target company	Government	DD4 is the counterpart district to DD2 considering a merger to address funding concerns.
Gary Brewer	Government representative	People	Gary Brewer (R-Charleston and Dorchester Counties) has been influential in explaining the funding implications and legislative backdrop of Act 388 on the merger.