Hutson GOP victor in Dist. 94

SUMMERVILLE — The candidate calling for stronger limits on growth around the town on Tuesday won the Republican spot for the House District 94 election.

Heyward Hutson, a retired Army officer and former state representative, beat Jenny Horne, an attorney and real estate broker.

Hutson took 55.4 percent of the votes in the Republican primary runoff, according to unofficial results. He faces no Democratic opposition in the Dec. 6 election.

"I think people are upset about how their quality of life in Summerville is being changed," Hutson said after the results were announced. "They see the growth out of control and they're insisting on taking charge again. I have recognized, like everybody else in this district, that we need to manage the growth better. We're tired of turning the faucet on full blast without any control."

Hutson campaigned on a promise to push to change state law so that municipalities can charge impact fees on new houses to help pay for schools and other needed services. Hutson favors charging 2 percent of the sales price.

Horne backed a bill allowing residential improvement districts to raise money for schools. The bill would allow special taxes on the residents of new developments.

"I must say I'm really disappointed that only 6 percent of the people in this district voted and made a decision that impacts 100 percent of the population," Horne said. "I think I have always been for controlled growth throughout this campaign, and I think the results were due to poor turnout."

State law requires the Dec. 6 election to be held, because of the remote possibility of a viable write-in candidate, according to Kathy Worthington, director of elections with the Dorchester County Board of Elections and Registration.

The special election was required after former Rep. Converse Chellis, a Republican, was appointed state treasurer. The district includes the Summerville area in Dorchester County and Lincolnville and Ladson in Charleston County.

The term goes through next year. Hutson said he plans to run for re-election.

Tuesday's results will be certified Thursday morning. Worthington said she didn't foresee any changes. Horne said she did not plan to appeal.

Reach Dave Munday at 745-5862 or dmunday@postandcourier.com.