Stronger Bonds

ParkerPoe.com

Stronger Bonds is a podcast that explores the important and sometimes complex topics that local governments and businesses face daily.In each short, digestible episode, Ray Jones and Emily Luther, seasoned attorneys at Parker Poe, will have an honest, unfiltered conversation on a specific issue - whether that's financing, taxes, infrastructure, economic development, or more. It'll be just like sitting in on one of our chats at the office.We have a passion for building relationships and helping clients solve problems. That's what inspired the name "Stronger Bonds" - it represents the bonds we form and the bonds used to finance projects that move communities forward.So join us as we break down intricate subject matter in an engaging, accessible way. We'll give you the 30,000-foot view and arm you with practical knowledge you can use. Be sure to tune in and reach out with any topics you'd like us to cover.Thanks for embarking on this podcast journey with us! Simple Conversations about Complex Topics

  1. Installment Purchase Revenue Bonds

    FEB 19

    Installment Purchase Revenue Bonds

    In this episode of Stronger Bonds, hosts Ray Jones and Emily Luther delve into the complexities of Installment Purchase Revenue Bonds (IPRBs), a flexible financing tool for local governments. They discuss the mechanics of IPRBs, the role of nonprofits in facilitating these bonds, and the impact of recent legislative changes on their use. The conversation highlights the benefits and challenges of IPRBs, emphasizing their importance in funding essential community projects while navigating the intricacies of local government financing. Key Topics: The critical difference between IPRBs and general obligation debt, and why nonprofits are central to this processHow local governments can use revenue sources beyond property taxes—like development fees, hospitality taxes, and even infrastructure impact fees—to make installment paymentsThe market’s view of IPRBs, their cost relative to traditional bonds, and why they aren’t just "cheaper" or a loopholeLegislative tweaks: what recent bills could mean for this flexible financing tool and your community’s growth plansReal-world examples of cities using IPRBs for projects that serve development, all while preserving borrowing capacity for emergencies and essential infrastructureLink to Senate Bill 891: https://www.scstatehouse.gov/sess126_2025-2026/bills/891.htm Parker Poe - Government & Municipalities Emily Luther Ray Jones Do you have a question, a topic idea, or a request? Please email us at StrongerBonds@parkerpoe.com. Stronger Bonds is recorded and produced by Robby Woodard. If you like golf, check out BestBall.com...your clubhouse for insightful golf content and stories that matter.

    43 min
  2. You won’t believe how much a fire truck costs…

    FEB 13

    You won’t believe how much a fire truck costs…

    Most local governments spend millions on fire trucks and police cars—yet many citizens have no idea just how much these essential services really cost. In this eye-opening episode of Stronger Bonds, Ray Jones and Emily Luther peel back the curtain on the true price of public safety and municipal expenses, revealing costs that have doubled since 2020 and explaining why your tax dollars are more vital—and expensive—than ever. If you've ever wondered why local taxes keep inching upward or how governments juggle rising costs with limited revenue, this is your go-to episode.  This episode is perfect for elected officials, public servants, and engaged citizens alike— anyone wanting a behind-the-scenes look at how local governments stretch limited funds to serve their communities. Recognize the complexities behind those tax bills and walk away with a new appreciation for the hard decisions (and high costs) involved in keeping your town safe and thriving. Whether you're attending a city council meeting, managing a municipal project, or simply curious about why local taxes keep rising, this episode will equip you with insights to navigate the delicate dance of budgeting, inflation, and public service. It’s a conversation you can’t afford to miss. https://greenvillejournal.com/news/explainer-how-municipalities-develop-budgets- pay-for-operations/ Parker Poe - Government & Municipalities Emily Luther Ray Jones Do you have a question, a topic idea, or a request? Please email us at StrongerBonds@parkerpoe.com. Stronger Bonds is recorded and produced by Robby Woodard. If you like golf, check out BestBall.com...your clubhouse for insightful golf content and stories that matter.

    24 min
  3. The Columbia Bond Team Reflects on 2025 and Looks Ahead to 2026

    12/31/2025

    The Columbia Bond Team Reflects on 2025 and Looks Ahead to 2026

    Welcome to a very special episode of Stronger Bonds, where we’re pulling back the curtain and inviting you behind the scenes with the entire Columbia Bond team. For our end-of-season episode, Emily and Ray are joined in the studio by colleagues Emily Zackon and Ryan Romano for the first time, making this a true team affair. In this candid and lighthearted conversation, you’ll get to know the voices you may have only heard about in passing—the “other Emily” (Emily Zackon), a dedicated bond attorney and mom of two, and Ryan Romano, whose journey brought him from Georgia to Columbia and into the specialized world of government finance law. Together, the team reflects on their favorite moments and challenging deals from the past year, shares unexpected twists—both in the legal world and at the lunch counter—and even recounts some of their funniest and goofiest experiences, like a memorable hypnotist conference and office snack mishaps. But it’s not all laughs; there’s thoughtful reflection on professional growth, team traditions, and what’s coming up for 2026—including their hopes for more efficient workflows, more technical mini-episodes, and maybe even Stronger Bonds swag. Whether you’re a longtime listener, a fellow practitioner, or just curious about the real life of bond lawyers, this episode is full of stories, gratitude, and a look ahead—with a few surprises along the way. Join us as the Columbia Bond team closes out 2025 and sets the stage for what’s next. Parker Poe - Government & Municipalities Emily Luther Ray Jones Emily Zackon Ryan Romano Parker Poe - Government & Municipalities Emily Luther Ray Jones Do you have a question, a topic idea, or a request? Please email us at StrongerBonds@parkerpoe.com. Stronger Bonds is recorded and produced by Robby Woodard. If you like golf, check out BestBall.com...your clubhouse for insightful golf content and stories that matter.

    43 min
  4. From the Council Chair to the Senate Floor: An Interview with Senator Overture Walker

    12/15/2025

    From the Council Chair to the Senate Floor: An Interview with Senator Overture Walker

    In this episode of Stronger Bonds, Emily Luther and Ray Jones welcome South Carolina State Senator Overture Walker for an inspiring conversation about public service, local government partnerships, and the transformative impact of economic development in the Midlands.  Tune in for heartfelt reflections, practical advice for local leaders, and behind-the-scenes stories about Scout Motors and legislative strategies.  Whether you’re interested in government, community building, or personal growth, this episode offers valuable insights and a genuine dose of connection—don’t miss it! Overture’s Senate Bio: South Carolina Legislature Online - Member BiographyStoney Walker Law Firm: Personal Injury & Criminal Defense Attorney | North Charleston & Columbia, SCTimestamped Overview 00:00 "South Carolina Senator's Journey" 06:13 "Reflecting Paths and Choices" 06:45 Stable Families Build Strong Communities 11:23 Reflections on County Council Service 14:07 Economic Contrast: Upstate vs. Midlands 20:21 "Governance Focus: Citizens' Best Interest" 23:03 "Addressing Sex Offender Residency Laws" 27:34 Dr. King Revised Iconic Speech 30:10 "Don't Suffer in Silence" 31:51 "Local Impact Over Legislation" 35:48 "Fostering Local-Government Collaboration" 38:37 "School Board's Role in Policy" 43:00 Mandatory Ignition Interlock Proposal 46:55 "Transferring Roads to Local Control" 49:00 Fireworks, Laws, and Grass 54:58 "Family Holidays and Travel" 55:41 "Family First, Busy Days" Parker Poe - Government & Municipalities Emily Luther Ray Jones Do you have a question, a topic idea, or a request? Please email us at StrongerBonds@parkerpoe.com. Stronger Bonds is recorded and produced by Robby Woodard. If you like golf, check out BestBall.com...your clubhouse for insightful golf content and stories that matter.

    1 hr
  5. Bridging State and Local Government: Insights from Speaker Murrell Smith

    11/03/2025

    Bridging State and Local Government: Insights from Speaker Murrell Smith

    In this episode of Stronger Bonds, Ray and Emily sit down with a special guest who’s been at the center of decision-making in South Carolina for nearly 25 years: Murrell Smith, Speaker of the South Carolina House of Representatives. Join us as Speaker Smith shares his journey from a young attorney with a passion for politics to leading the State House, reflecting on the lessons learned along the way. We’ll get into what it means to build relationships, earn trust, and serve a community—not just at the state level, but locally in Sumter, where the concept of “Team Sumter” has helped foster growth and unity. This episode is packed with insights on the evolving role of state government as a partner for cities, counties, and school districts, strategies for effective advocacy, and the future of economic development in South Carolina. Plus, stick around for some lighter moments where we talk favorite local eats, family, and life outside the legislature. Whether you’re involved in local government, curious about public service, or just want to know what’s happening behind the scenes as South Carolina continues to grow, this is an episode you won’t want to miss. Murrell Smith BioSmith RobinsonTimestamped Overview 00:00 State-Local Government Collaboration Insight 03:49 "Seizing Life's Opportunities" 06:35 "Commitment and Legacy in Service" 09:45 "Learn Rules and People" 15:17 "Resolving Issues, Elevating Sumter" 19:17 "Challenges of Part-Time Legislating" 20:58 Family First, Always Balancing Life 23:39 Building Partnerships Over Criticism 28:02 "Streamlining Education and Workforce Goals" 30:46 Infrastructure and Growth Challenges 36:14 "Reviving Nuclear in South Carolina" 38:14 "South Carolina's Reshoring Success" 42:08 Tax Equity and Shared Responsibility 46:31 South Carolina's Justice System Challenges 47:45 "Around the Counter Chats" 50:50 Sumter Dining Highlights Parker Poe - Government & Municipalities Emily Luther Ray Jones Do you have a question, a topic idea, or a request? Please email us at StrongerBonds@parkerpoe.com. Stronger Bonds is recorded and produced by Robby Woodard. If you like golf, check out BestBall.com...your clubhouse for insightful golf content and stories that matter.

    53 min
  6. Examining Act 388: Part 3 – A Local Government Perspective

    09/12/2025

    Examining Act 388: Part 3 – A Local Government Perspective

    In this episode of Stronger Bonds, Emily Luther and Ray Jones sit down with Todd Glover, Executive Director of the Municipal Association of South Carolina, to dive into the real-world effects of Act 388 on local governments. From limited property tax growth to the growing reliance on sales taxes and fees, they explore the challenges municipalities face in balancing budgets, funding essential services, and navigating shifting tax burdens. Tune in for an engaging and candid discussion packed with firsthand insights, local government stories, and ideas on where reforms could go next—perfect for anyone interested in the intersections of taxes, policy, and community impact! Todd Glover, Executive Director of the Municipal Association of SCMunicipal Association of South Carolina Act 388 of 2006: South Carolina Legislature OnlineTimestamped Overview 00:00 Todd's Aiken Connection Revealed 04:15 Choosing MPA Over Law 09:17 Regional Advocacy Meetings Overview 11:27 Act 388 and School Funding Shift 15:33 Property Tax Caps and Revenue Shifts 18:05 Property Tax Pressure Concerns 23:14 Assessed Value Caps and Millage Queries 24:24 Rollback Millage Impact Discussion 28:44 City Administrator's Tough Decisions 32:07 "Tax System Challenges Explained" 36:04 Tax Burden Shifting Strategies Analyzed 37:20 "Importance of Employee Raises" 46:19 "Persisting Problem, No Solution Yet" Parker Poe - Government & Municipalities Emily Luther Ray Jones Do you have a question, a topic idea, or a request? Please email us at StrongerBonds@parkerpoe.com. Stronger Bonds is recorded and produced by Robby Woodard. If you like golf, check out BestBall.com...your clubhouse for insightful golf content and stories that matter.

    50 min
  7. How Local Governments Borrow Money

    08/26/2025

    How Local Governments Borrow Money

    Welcome back to Stronger Bonds, where Emily Luther and Ray Jones dive into the fascinating world of government development, taxes, and public finance! In this episode, Emily and Ray are taking it back to basics—shedding light on what it really means to be a “bond lawyer” and demystifying the process of how local governments borrow money. Have you ever wondered how your property taxes are connected to that new school building, park, or updated water system in your community? Emily and Ray break down the different types of government debt, the roles that bond lawyers play, and the multi-step process of bringing public projects from planning to completion. You’ll learn why government borrowing isn’t the same as personal debt, how your elected officials and frontline administrators weigh tough financial decisions, and how the community’s voice sets government priorities in motion. With their usual blend of practical insight, humor, and real-world stories—including summer adventures in France, moving college kids, and the “mystery” of a bond closing—Emily and Ray make the complexities of public finance approachable for everyone, whether you’re tuning in during your commute or just curious about what happens behind the scenes of your local government. Get ready to go behind the scenes of city hall as Stronger Bonds untangles the nuts and bolts of government borrowing, the checks and balances in place to protect taxpayers, and the teamwork required to make community improvements a reality. This episode is packed with valuable takeaways for elected officials, administrators, and citizens alike! Timestamp: 00:00 Inside Public Finance Law 05:48 Challenges for Finance and Admin Staff 08:35 Understanding Millage and Property Tax 11:48 Validating Government Bonds Process 14:13 "Understanding Tax Exempt Debt" 16:20 Understanding Government Debt Types 20:39 Balancing Infrastructure Needs and Public Concerns 23:17 "Revenue Management and Debt Coverage" 25:51 "Revenues and Insights Session" 30:20 Bond Issuance Process Explained 32:19 Strategic Planning and Stakeholder Engagement 37:39 Three-Reading Ordinance Process 41:07 "Teamwork in Bond Authorization" 42:33 "Size Dictates Debt Management" 47:31 Meeting Documentation Verification Process 50:43 The Complexity of Closing Deals 51:38 Bond Deals: A Beginner's Guide 55:15 Act 388 Discussion Preview Parker Poe - Government & Municipalities Emily Luther Ray Jones Do you have a question, a topic idea, or a request? Please email us at StrongerBonds@parkerpoe.com. Stronger Bonds is recorded and produced by Robby Woodard. If you like golf, check out BestBall.com...your clubhouse for insightful golf content and stories that matter.

    57 min
  8. Examining Act 388: Part 2 – The Inside Story

    06/30/2025

    Examining Act 388: Part 2 – The Inside Story

    Welcome to another episode of Stronger Bonds! In this installment, hosts Emily Luther and Ray Jones return after a brief hiatus to continue their deep dive into one of South Carolina's most transformative pieces of tax legislation—Act 388. Picking up where they left off in their Act 388 series, Ray and Emily are joined by a special guest: Vincent Sheheen, former state senator, mayor of Camden, attorney, and author—who was actually in the room during Act 388’s genesis. Together, they unpack the insider story behind the bill, discuss the driving forces and key players that shaped its passage, and explore the compromises that shifted property tax reform in new and sometimes controversial directions. Listeners will get exclusive insights into the legislative process, hear stories from the Senate floor (including the legendary “chicken box” negotiations), and learn about the far-reaching impact of Act 388 on local governments, schools, and South Carolina’s future. Plus, stick around for the always-fun Around the Counter segment, where the team shares their favorite local “hole in the wall” lunch spots—and invites listeners to send in their own recommendations. Whether you’re a property tax aficionado, a local government pro, or just hungry for a fun lunch recommendation, this episode promises sharp insights, candid conversation, and a peek behind the legislative curtain. Thanks for joining us on Stronger Bonds, where we talk all things government, development, taxes, finance, and yes—lunch! Act 388 of 2006: South Carolina Legislature OnlineVincent’s Book: https://uscpress.com/The-Concise-Guide-to-South-Carolina-State-GovernmentThe Honorable Vincent A. Sheheen, Mayor of Camden, SC: Your Guide to Camden, SCVincent A. Sheheen, Attorney & Mediator - Savage, Royall, & Sheheen 00:00 Introduction 03:38 Municipal Millage Levying Questions 06:42 Improving Act 388 Impact 12:23 School Funding's Impact on Property Tax 13:08 Key Legislative Leaders Unite 17:27 Property Tax Revolution and Impacts 22:23 Property Tax Impact on Housing Market 24:05 Senate Compromise on Property Tax 28:07 Tax Breaks Hinder Economic Growth 31:58 Millage Cap Exemptions for Counties 34:02 Property Tax Reform for Education 35:51 Writing South Carolina's Government Guide 41:56 Favorite Hole-in-the-Wall Lunches? 45:28 Exploring Act 388 Insights Parker Poe - Government & Municipalities Emily Luther Ray Jones Do you have a question, a topic idea, or a request? Please email us at StrongerBonds@parkerpoe.com. Stronger Bonds is recorded and produced by Robby Woodard. If you like golf, check out BestBall.com...your clubhouse for insightful golf content and stories that matter.

    48 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
10 Ratings

About

Stronger Bonds is a podcast that explores the important and sometimes complex topics that local governments and businesses face daily.In each short, digestible episode, Ray Jones and Emily Luther, seasoned attorneys at Parker Poe, will have an honest, unfiltered conversation on a specific issue - whether that's financing, taxes, infrastructure, economic development, or more. It'll be just like sitting in on one of our chats at the office.We have a passion for building relationships and helping clients solve problems. That's what inspired the name "Stronger Bonds" - it represents the bonds we form and the bonds used to finance projects that move communities forward.So join us as we break down intricate subject matter in an engaging, accessible way. We'll give you the 30,000-foot view and arm you with practical knowledge you can use. Be sure to tune in and reach out with any topics you'd like us to cover.Thanks for embarking on this podcast journey with us! Simple Conversations about Complex Topics

Information

  • Creator
    ParkerPoe.com
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    19
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Stronger Bonds
  • Show Website
    Stronger Bonds

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