Southern Living magazine named the City of Charleston "the South’s Best City 2017" for its dining options, hotels and museums, noting that "there’s always something new to discover." The magazine named the City of Beaufort "the South’s Best Small Town 2017," due to its scenery, heritage/history, charm, cultural events, water activities, unique festivals and local seafood.
The City of Rock Hill won first place in its population category in the National League of Cities’ City Cultural Diversity Awards, which recognized six cities for implementing programs that enhance and promote cultural diversity in their communities. Rock Hill won for its "Liberty and Justice for All" Freedom Walkway’s Ode to Civil Rights.
Teresa Benjamin, the clerk/treasurer for the City of Lake City, earned her Certified Municipal Clerk designation through the International Institute of Municipal Clerks. The CMC certification is one of the highest levels of training a municipal clerk can attain and is recognized internationally for its extensive education and experience requirements.