The strongest words at the annual State of the Community event came from York Technical College President Dennis Merrell, who accused lawmakers of breaking promises to the state's technical institutions.

Merrell said his school has lost 30 percent, or about $3 million, of its state funding over the past four years due to budget cuts and shifting priorities. As a result, he said, York Tech cannot keep up with the demands of a growing population.

"It seems like every year, everybody starts with a hope and a prayer and goes searching for dollars," said Merrell, asked later about his comments. "More and more of the burden is having to come from the students. Then we get accused of raising tuition recklessly, when in fact we're trying to operate."

Issues with Columbia aside, leaders offered upbeat assessments at Wednesday's meeting, put on by the Rock Hill Area Council, which is part of the York County Regional Chamber of Commerce. They told an audience of 100 that Rock Hill is planning well for growth and becoming an attractive place for companies.

School board Chairman Bob Norwood, however, lamented the state's decision to mandate school start dates and questioned how providing vouchers to private schools would improve public education.

Mayor Doug Echols took a gentler approach, arguing that decisions are best left up to those closest to the communities they serve.

'It's difficult to feel good'

For Rock Hill leaders to criticize Columbia is nothing new. Echols has spoken often during his tenure about the Legislature's infringement on home rule.

Told of Wednesday's barrage, state Rep. Gary Simrill, R-Rock Hill, seemed unsurprised.

"This has been going on for years," he said. "At the end of the day, those in the Legislature and on the local governments answer to the same public. The goal in Columbia is not to usurp any power. It's to serve our constituency. Sometimes you bump up against the next level."

But business executives, educators and public officials were told the conflict runs deeper. As they ate from a buffet of egg soufflé, sausage and fruit provided by the York County Regional Chamber of Commerce, leaders urged them to stand up for local control.

"I really do believe we have politicians in Columbia that care more about their party affiliation than doing what's best," Norwood said later. "When you don't get a phone call or get information before moves are made, it's difficult to feel good about a relationship."

Matt Garfield • 329-4063