CHARLESTON, S.C. - South Carolina will have to refine its antiterrorism strategy to better meet federal funding priorities, State Law Enforcement Chief Robert Stewart said after Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff visited here.

Stewart said Monday he spoke with Chertoff about homeland security funding and the state's need to have a basic resources in rural areas.

Chertoff said his agency will emphasize spending on antiterrorism defenses, deployment capabilities and technology. He also said the agency will stress spending on defense against the greatest threats. "Obviously, we cannot fund everything," he said.

Stewart said Chertoff's visit to the Wando Welch Terminal was productive. Some local officials have been concerned about port security and funding for efforts to improve security overall.

But Stewart said South Carolina must adopt more of Chertoff's approach, mixing money and resources where they will do the most good. The state already supplies county emergency personnel with operations such as search and rescue, hazardous material and bioterrorism response.

"What (Chertoff) is saying is not counter to what we're doing here," Stewart said. "If there continues to be a decline in funds, we would have concerns."

Chertoff came to Charleston because he was impressed with Project SeaHawk, the nation's first port security command and control center that will oversee port operations. The project features a team of federal, state and local agencies on security efforts at the port. "It's a great example of partnership," Chertoff said.

South Carolina has received $90 million in funding for homeland security, including $60 million for Project SeaHawk, Stewart said.

Wando Welch, the largest State Ports Authority terminal, was the first stop at any port for Chertoff, who took over in February. His visit followed reports of ports and law enforcement funding concerns.

"A lot of the new security requirements haven't been funded," said Byron Miller, SPA spokesman. "A new proposal lumps (federal) port security grants in with other transportation mode grants. That causes some concern."