Aiken Welcomes Charlie Hartz as New Candidate for House District 81 Seat

Aiken’s Political Scene Heats Up with Local Candidate Announcement

As the vibrant city of Aiken gears up for the upcoming election season, local business owner and community leader Charlie Hartz has thrown his hat into the ring as a candidate for the House District 81 seat. Aiken residents are buzzing with excitement over Hartz’s decision to run, especially considering his extensive background in business and community service.

Meet Charlie Hartz

At 65 years old, Hartz isn’t just another candidate; he’s a self-made businessman, known for his enduring passion for supporting local enterprises. He has devoted more than 20 years to his happy marriage with his wife Kitsie, and they share a stepdaughter, Katie. With a degree in business management from Alfred University, he has built a successful career that includes owning The Village Café in Woodside Village, as well as recently launching a new dog grooming service, Scenthound Aiken.

Prior to these ventures, Hartz showcased his leadership skills by managing country clubs around the world for over three decades, including the Woodside Plantation Country Club right here in Aiken. His dedication to the community is further highlighted by his current role as the Chairman of the Aiken Chamber of Commerce, where he plays an integral part in local business development.

His Vision for Aiken County

So, why is Charlie Hartz running for office? Simple—he believes that Aiken County needs a strong, business-minded leader. He emphasizes the importance of standing up against the influence of special interests and advocates for a common-sense conservative government. As he points out, a whopping 92% of employees in South Carolina are employed by small businesses, and Hartz is committed to protecting these workers and their employers from unnecessary regulations and burdens originating from Columbia.

Top Priorities on the Agenda

If elected, Hartz has made it clear what his top priorities will be. On day one, he plans to team up with fellow conservatives to lower taxes, cut wasteful spending, and fix our roads. While these may seem like standard talking points for many politicians, Hartz adds a personal twist by framing them as essential steps towards creating a safe future for children and grandchildren in Aiken.

A Man of the People

What sets Hartz apart from typical party-line candidates is his commitment to represent all constituents in House District 81, not just a specific political faction. He insists that he won’t be swayed by the needs of one-sided special interest groups. “You have my word, I am going to Columbia to bring home results for Aiken,” Hartz states confidently.

The essence of Hartz’s campaign is very clear: ensure a balanced approach to governance that puts the community first. With his extensive experience in business and community advocacy, Aiken citizens are looking forward to the future and what Hartz hopes to achieve for the district.

Community Engagement Encouraged

As election season heats up, Hartz’s candidacy is just one part of a larger narrative unfolding in Aiken, involving ongoing discussions on community needs, business growth, and government accountability. Voters are encouraged to engage and learn more about the candidates. After all, the future of Aiken County is in the hands of its residents.

Local officials invite the community to stay informed, participate in upcoming town hall meetings, and share their voices about what they want to see from future leadership. As always, elections serve not just as a chance for change but as an opportunity for the community to come together and express what matters most.