Cain takes note for potential for economic opportunity zones

The trip to Columbia and a talk with the governor this week has opened in the mind of Paul Cain, the Oconee County councilman, the possibility of funding sources to enhance economic development opportunities for Oconee County. Cain says he has learned about a provision of the new U-S tax law, promoted by Senator Tim Scott, that would create “Opportunity Zones” to facilitate long-term investment in distressed communities through a deferral in capital gains taxes based on the length of investment.” According to Cain, the Investing in Opportunity measure bodes the possibility that Walhalla and Westminster could qualify as distressed communities and benefit through investment and entrepreneurial assistance. Cain also said an appeal was made of Governor Henry McMaster to do what he can do leverage funding to help extend the Palmetto Trail from Stumphouse Tunnel Park into Walhalla and, “I think we all would love to see that extended down even into Clemson, Cain added