The People Who Run Gifford, S.C.’s Tiny Government

The small, rural town of Gifford, S.C., survives with help from just 12 enthusiastic public employees — most of whom aren’t even paid.

In tiny towns like Gifford, S.C., the municipal government consists of very few people. A dozen employees, most of whom are unpaid and work part-time, see to the needs of the town’s 289 citizens. Here, the entire city council — Alvin Murdaugh, Lindsay Strong, Leon Blake and Horney Mitchell — stands in front of the town hall, a former family home that was donated to the city.

In tiny towns like Gifford, S.C., population 289, the city government can be downright minuscule. Gifford’s municipal government comprises a total of 12 employees, most of whom are unpaid and/or work part-time. Here, the entire city council — Alvin Murdaugh, Lindsay Strong, Leon Blake and Horney Mitchell — stands in front of the town hall, a former family home that was donated to the city. (Photos by David Kidd)

Laquan Keith Mitchell, elected in 2013, is the fourth mayor of Gifford. His father is a councilman.

Municipal Judge Sheryl McKinney holds court once a month and typically hears a dozen cases, mostly traffic-related.

Clerk of the Court Patricia McTeer is often the only employee on duty at Gifford Town Hall.

Police Chief James Mitchell (no relation to the mayor) brings in a sizable portion of Gifford’s revenue by writing tickets.

George Woods is always on call to take care of general maintenance.

Town Clerk Carleen Wright is also the treasurer.

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