South Carolina ETV (SCETV) announces the return of Palmetto Perspectives with a powerful new episode “Let’s Be Neighbors” airing live on ETV on June 26 from 7 – 8 p.m. Viewers can also watch the broadcast live on the SCETV website, YouTube channel or Facebook page. The episode will also simulcast on South Carolina Public Radio. Palmetto Perspectives is a community affairs program dedicated to tackling the pressing issues facing South Carolina and its communities. This episode will focus on one of the state’s most urgent and complex challenges: attainable housing.
According to recent U.S. Census data, South Carolina is among the fastest-growing states in the nation, adding more than 90,000 new residents between July 2022 and July 2023—a growth rate of 1.7%, placing the state third in the nation. This rapid influx of residents is putting additional pressure on an already strained housing market, with many communities facing shortages of affordable and workforce housing. A 2023 Palmetto State Housing Study revealed that more than 75,000 South Carolinians spend over half their income on rent, and the state faces a shortage of more than 87,000 affordable rental homes for extremely low-income households.
The episode will feature a live studio audience and a panel discussion led by Palmetto Perspectives host Thelisha Eaddy, the local Morning Edition host for SC Public Radio. Eaddy has been a trusted voice in South Carolina’s media landscape since joining SC Public Radio in 2015, covering key issues such as disaster recovery and public health.
Panelists include:
Representative Chandra Dillard – SC House of Representatives, District 23. Rep. Dillard serves on the House Ways and Means Committee and has led initiatives supporting infrastructure, community development and equitable housing access in her district and beyond.
Clayton Ingram – External Relations and Policy Manager, South Carolina State Housing and Finance Development Authority. Ingram oversees legislative affairs, communications, and public education initiatives for SC Housing. Since joining the agency in 2008, he has played a key role in shaping housing policy and stakeholder engagement. His prior public service includes leadership roles at the SC Department of Insurance and the State Budget and Control Board.
Jamilla Harper – Chief Operating Officer, Metanoia. A Lowcountry native and College of Charleston graduate, Harper is the first Black female COO of Metanoia. She leads strategic community development efforts in North Charleston, working alongside residents and local leaders to create sustainable opportunities for growth and empowerment.
Joey Von Nessen – Research Economist, Darla Moore School of Business at the University of South Carolina. Von Nessen specializes in housing economics, economic forecasting and market analysis, advising state and national organizations and frequently briefing the Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond.
Scott Morgan – Upstate Multimedia Reporter, South Carolina Public Radio. Morgan covers housing, health and economic issues and has been recognized nationally for his in-depth storytelling and investigative reporting.
Palmetto Perspectives aims to amplify conversations happening in local communities across South Carolina. “Let’s Be Neighbors” will examine the root causes and current obstacles to attainable housing in South Carolina, while also spotlighting projects and policies that are driving local solutions. The discussion will emphasize the importance of collaboration among government, developers, community advocates and residents to expand access to safe, affordable housing options across the Palmetto State.
Members of the public are invited to join the live studio audience for this important discussion. Registration is required and can be completed online.
QUOTES
“Palmetto Perspectives continues to elevate the issues that matter most to the people of South Carolina. With ‘Let’s Be Neighbors,’ we bring attention to the growing housing challenges facing our communities—and the leaders working to meet the need.” –SCETV President and CEO Adrienne Fairwell
"This episode will highlight not just the problems but also solutions already in progress across the state. We want to inform and empower communities with the knowledge they need to take action.” –Palmetto Perspectives Producer Leroy Green
“Attainable housing is a necessity that impacts individuals, communities and economies. Having stable, affordable housing can lead to better health outcomes for every member of the family, increase educational achievement for children and create stronger, local economies. It’s our goal that this episode will illuminate projects that are seeing housing success and also the pieces of this puzzle others can put together to help make attainable housing a sustained reality in their area.” –Palmetto Perspectives Host Thelisha Eaddy
FAST FACTS
- Palmetto Perspectives “Let’s Be Neighbors” airs live on ETV on June 26 from 7–8 p.m., featuring a live studio audience and a panel of experts and advocates.
- While South Carolina was the 3rd fastest-growing state in the U.S. in 2023, the state faces a shortage of over 87,000 affordable rental homes for extremely low-income households.
- Registration is required and can be completed online.
- Viewers can also watch the broadcast live on the SCETV website, YouTube channel or Facebook page.
About South Carolina ETV and Public Radio
South Carolina ETV and Public Radio (SCETV) is the state's public educational broadcasting network. SCETV amplifies South Carolina voices, provides educational experiences and strengthens communities, while working toward creating a stronger, more connected and informed South Carolina. In addition to airing local programs, such as The Know Show, Making It Grow, and This Week in South Carolina, SCETV also presents multiple programs to regional and national audiences, including Books By The River, After Action, Reconnecting Roots, Reel South, Downing of a Flag and Southern Songwriters with Patrick Davis.
Media Contact
Landon Masters
media@scetv.org
(803) 737-3337
