Westminster, South Carolina — Families in Westminster are paying some of the highest utility rates in the region — 16.5¢ per kilowatt hour — while nearly 24% of residents live in poverty and the median household income is just $38,393. At the center of this crisis is City Administrator Kevin Bronson, whose decisions have tied Westminster to costly contracts with the Piedmont Municipal Power Agency (PMPA).

Bronson, who earns $142,000 per year — nearly four times the average household income — has overseen agreements that lock Westminster into long‑term obligations with PMPA, leaving families with no relief from soaring bills. These contracts have been widely criticized for burdening small towns with excessive costs, yet Bronson has failed to pursue competitive alternatives or advocate for residents.

A Troubling History
This is not the first time Bronson’s leadership has been linked to controversy. In 2012, while serving as City Manager of Camden, SC, his office was drawn into a state investigation involving misconduct in city operations. Though Bronson was not the central figure accused, the episode raised serious questions about oversight and accountability under his management.

The Demand
Westminster deserves leaders who live among them, listen to them, and fight for affordable energy solutions. Bronson’s role in locking the city into PMPA contracts — combined with his history of questionable oversight — has deepened poverty and betrayed public trust.

It is time for Westminster to demand better. Kevin Bronson must resign.