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Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Repair in James Island, SC

The summers can be hot and humid, especially near coastal areas, meaning your HVAC system works extra hard in the afternoons. On the opposite side of the spectrum, winters can be cold and chilly enough to cause ice storms and months of winter jacket-wearing.

That's why it's crucial that home and business owners have access to a trustworthy HVAC system that is ready to keep you warm when needed and cool when the temps heat up. But in order to maintain and repair complex residential and commercial HVAC systems, you need a team of reliable technicians to take care of you and your family. JAC Services has got your HVAC repair in James Island, SC covered, no matter how large or small the problem.

Why We Best

The JAC Services Difference

At JAC Services, we specialize in providing top-notch installation, repairs, and maintenance services for HVAC systems in homes, businesses, and restaurants. Moreover, we are a reputable food equipment service provider that utilizes cutting-edge technology and upholds the highest standards of integrity and excellence.

We aim to provide you with the same level of exceptional service, skilled HVAC repair, and affordable prices that we would want for ourselves. At the end of the day, our goal is to keep you comfortable in your home or business while providing you with the necessary equipment and repairs to keep on working. And as locals who live in the Lowcountry, we're committed to providing those services at prices that won't make you go bankrupt. And that, in a nutshell, is what makes us stand apart from others: personalized and reliable HVAC services that you can rely on 24/7.

A few of our specialties include:

  • HVAC Repair in James Island, SC
  • HVAC Maintenance
  • Residential HVAC Services
  • Commercial HVAC Services
  • Refrigeration and Freezer Repair
  • Food Service & Restaurant Equipment Maintenance

Whether your restaurant needs new equipment ASAP or the HVAC unit in your commercial property is acting up, our team has the tools and training to fix your problem correctly, so you can get back to loving life in South Carolina.

Residential HVAC Repair in James Island, SC

They say that home is where the heart is, but it's also where you're most comfortable - unless, of course, your A/C or heat goes out when you need it most. When it does, you need a reliable source of help that can remediate the situation quickly and with professionalism, and that's where JAC Services comes in.

JAC Services is here to take care of all your heating, cooling, and HVAC requirements, whether you require a regular HVAC check or an urgent repair on your heating or cooling system. Our team of skilled technicians is committed to providing personalized and prompt service that goes above and beyond your expectations. Why? Because that's how we would want our families treated, too.

It all starts with an in-depth inspection to determine what the problem is. From there, our skilled technicians will help you select the best HVAC solution for your needs. We offer a wide range of residential HVAC services, including:

  • Preventative Maintenance Programs
  • Heating & Air Repair
  • Tankless Water Heater Repair and Installation
  • UV Light Installation
  • Coil Cleaning
  • Belt Replacement
  • Filter Changes
  • Drain Pan Cleaning
  • More

Once we discover the best HVAC services for your needs, we use of the highest quality parts and time-tested preventative maintenance solutions to ensure your home is comfortable year-round.

Call Now for Home Heating & Air Services arrow

How Preventative Maintenance is Key to Residential HVAC Longevity

As homeowners, it's crucial to ensure that our HVAC systems are maintained year-round. Whether they're keeping us cool during hot summers or giving us warmth during South Carolina's cold winters, HVAC systems work tirelessly to ensure a cozy indoor environment for ourselves and our families. However, it's important to note that regular maintenance is key to maintaining efficiency, minimizing costs, and increasing the lifespan of your HVAC system.

Here are just a few of the most common reasons why regular preventative maintenance is a smart investment for homeowners in The Palmetto State:

Cost Savings

On the surface, paying for HVAC repair in James Island, SC, may seem like you're wasting money, but nothing could be further from the truth. In fact, investing in an HVAC maintenance plan from JAC Services can actually end up saving you hard-earned money in the long run. Here's how:

  • Expensive Repairs: Preventative maintenance is great for finding and fixing potentially expensive HVAC issues early on before big breakdowns happen, which can cost much more money.
  • Increased HVAC System Lifespan: As is the case with any type of mechanical system, your HVAC unit won't run forever. Fortunately, regular maintenance from licensed professionals can increase your system's longevity by delaying the need for an expensive system replacement.
  • Maintaining Warranty: When was the last time you looked at your HVAC system's warranty? Many warranties require homeowners to keep their units maintained with regular service. In doing so, you're protecting your investment while avoiding the huge headaches associated with voided HVAC warranties.

Efficiency

HVAC repair in James Island, SC, is key to achieving optimal efficiency. With time, your system can accumulate dust, debris, and other contaminants that can affect its performance. On the other hand, a well-maintained HVAC system can provide you with consistent and efficient heating and cooling, ensuring that you stay comfortable while minimizing energy waste.

Check out these benefits of regular HVAC maintenance for improved efficiency:

  • Enhanced Airflow: Maintenance plans from JAC Services can include system cleanouts and filter replacements, both of which promote proper airflow and air distribution around your home.
  • Less Energy: A well-maintained HVAC system means it's running optimally, which translates to less energy consumption and, by proxy, lower power bills.
  • Proper Performance: Taking care of minor HVAC issues with professional maintenance often prevents major problems that affect your HVAC unit's performance. Lack of performance can lead to breakdowns and costly repairs, neither of which you want.

Longevity of the HVAC System

Most homeowners think of their HVAC unit as an investment, and they'd be right. But to keep that unit working for years, proper maintenance and repairs are often necessary. Here's why:

  • Less Damage: By nipping smaller issues in the bud early and keeping your system free of debris, ongoing maintenance plans help minimize wear and tear while prolonging your HVAC system's life.
  • Longer-Lasting Performance: When an HVAC system is well-maintained, it performs to the best of its ability, delivering trustworthy cooling and heating year-round.
  • Peace of Mind: When you have your system maintained by professionals, you can have the peace of mind knowing your unit is in good hands. And when your HVAC is cared for by the pros, you can rest easy knowing your unit will work for a long time to come.

It's smart to keep in mind that HVAC maintenance isn't a one-time chore. It's best to have it done regularly by a team of professionals. That way, you and your family can reap the full benefits of your HVAC unit.

Remember - maintaining your HVAC system involves more than just simple cleaning and inspection. It requires a number of important tasks, including draining the system, inspecting capacitors and motor amperages, adjusting fan speeds, cleaning coils, setting gas pressures, conducting safety inspections, checking electrical connections, and calibrating controls. By taking these additional steps, you can optimize the performance of your HVAC system and minimize the likelihood of unexpected breakdowns while ensuring that you enjoy comfortable indoor temperatures throughout the year.

Cost Savings

On the surface, paying for HVAC repair in James Island, SC, may seem like you're wasting money, but nothing could be further from the truth. In fact, investing in an HVAC maintenance plan from JAC Services can actually end up saving you hard-earned money in the long run. Here's how:

  • Expensive Repairs: Preventative maintenance is great for finding and fixing potentially expensive HVAC issues early on before big breakdowns happen, which can cost much more money.
  • Increased HVAC System Lifespan: As is the case with any type of mechanical system, your HVAC unit won't run forever. Fortunately, regular maintenance from licensed professionals can increase your system's longevity by delaying the need for an expensive system replacement.
  • Maintaining Warranty: When was the last time you looked at your HVAC system's warranty? Many warranties require homeowners to keep their units maintained with regular service. In doing so, you're protecting your investment while avoiding the huge headaches associated with voided HVAC warranties.

Efficiency

HVAC repair in James Island, SC, is key to achieving optimal efficiency. With time, your system can accumulate dust, debris, and other contaminants that can affect its performance. On the other hand, a well-maintained HVAC system can provide you with consistent and efficient heating and cooling, ensuring that you stay comfortable while minimizing energy waste.

Check out these benefits of regular HVAC maintenance for improved efficiency:

  • Enhanced Airflow: Maintenance plans from JAC Services can include system cleanouts and filter replacements, both of which promote proper airflow and air distribution around your home.
  • Less Energy: A well-maintained HVAC system means it's running optimally, which translates to less energy consumption and, by proxy, lower power bills.
  • Proper Performance: Taking care of minor HVAC issues with professional maintenance often prevents major problems that affect your HVAC unit's performance. Lack of performance can lead to breakdowns and costly repairs, neither of which you want.

Longevity of the HVAC System

Most homeowners think of their HVAC unit as an investment, and they'd be right. But to keep that unit working for years, proper maintenance and repairs are often necessary. Here's why:

  • Less Damage: By nipping smaller issues in the bud early and keeping your system free of debris, ongoing maintenance plans help minimize wear and tear while prolonging your HVAC system's life.
  • Longer-Lasting Performance: When an HVAC system is well-maintained, it performs to the best of its ability, delivering trustworthy cooling and heating year-round.
  • Peace of Mind: When you have your system maintained by professionals, you can have the peace of mind knowing your unit is in good hands. And when your HVAC is cared for by the pros, you can rest easy knowing your unit will work for a long time to come.

It's smart to keep in mind that HVAC maintenance isn't a one-time chore. It's best to have it done regularly by a team of professionals. That way, you and your family can reap the full benefits of your HVAC unit.

Remember - maintaining your HVAC system involves more than just simple cleaning and inspection. It requires a number of important tasks, including draining the system, inspecting capacitors and motor amperages, adjusting fan speeds, cleaning coils, setting gas pressures, conducting safety inspections, checking electrical connections, and calibrating controls. By taking these additional steps, you can optimize the performance of your HVAC system and minimize the likelihood of unexpected breakdowns while ensuring that you enjoy comfortable indoor temperatures throughout the year.

Commercial HVAC Repair in James Island, SC

As a business owner, you know that commercial HVAC failure can cause major disruptions to your daily operations. Whether due to age, wear and tear, or unresolved issues, the sudden breakdown of your HVAC unit can lead to uncomfortable temperatures and unpleasant noises. At JAC Services, we understand the importance of keeping your commercial HVAC system running smoothly, and we're here to provide expert maintenance and repairs to ensure that your business stays comfortable and productive, no matter the time of year.

Our licensed and insured technicians offer a variety of commercial heating & air solutions tailored to your budget and specific needs, from one-off fixes to ongoing maintenance plans. We put our clients first when it comes to commercial HVAC repair, which is why so many entrepreneurs and "doers" choose JAC Services over the rest.

When you trust our team, you can rest easy knowing your business is in knowledgeable, capable hands. We always prioritize the following for our commercial clients:

  • Quick Response Times
  • High-Quality Workmanship
  • Full-Service HVAC Repair & Installations for Businesses in South Carolina
  • Competitive Pricing
  • Custom Maintenance Plans
  • More

When your HVAC system needs expert attention, don't risk your livelihood with amateurs - contact JAC Services today to get your job done right.

Coolers James Island, SC

Food Service & Restaurant Equipment Maintenance

As the coolest company in James Island, we know the best ways to turn up the heat. While JAC Services is known for HVAC repair in James Island, SC, we also provide commercial entities like restaurants with professional equipment maintenance and repairs. Because having the proper equipment is necessary, but making sure it works correctly is crucial. When it doesn't, your food service clients aren't happy, and your revenue stream suffers.

From fryers and grills to steamers and heating cabinets, we've got you covered, whether you're a restaurant in downtown James Island or a catering company in Summerville. We strive to exceed your expectations by ensuring that you receive prompt, individualized service from a team that truly cares about your success. Our high-trained technicians can help repair and maintain a wide range of restaurant equipment, including:

Have an emergency? Don't stress - we also offer last-minute equipment maintenance and repairs when you need them the most. Call us today for a quote on any restaurant equipment repair or maintenance need.

5 Signs It's Time to Repair Your Commercial Kitchen Equipment

It might not be fun to hear, but the truth is that commercial kitchen equipment doesn't last forever. Refrigerators experience leaks, freezers malfunction, and ventilation systems stop working. The issue is that when you're focused on providing excellent food and service to your customers, you may not be aware of these issues. Here are some of the most common warning signs that it's time to repair your restaurant equipment.

Problems Finding Parts

As your kitchen equipment ages, locating replacement parts may become increasingly difficult. This is a clear indication that your equipment has exceeded its recommended lifespan. Additionally, retrofitting can pose a challenge for repair technicians who must search for alternative parts to restore functionality. Not only can this be expensive, but it also elevates the risk of dangerous incidents such as fires, electrical issues, leaks of freon gas or natural gas, and more.

Unreliable Performance

Efficiency in your kitchen is paramount to providing excellent service and ensuring customer satisfaction. However, outdated commercial kitchen equipment can hinder performance and compromise the quality of your dishes. As such, it's crucial to address equipment issues promptly with professional repairs from JAC Services.

Disconcerted Staff

Having employees constantly complain about the workplace due to unreliable or unsafe equipment can lead to a high turnover rate, which is an expensive problem to have. Investing in equipment repairs can improve staff morale and help instill a sense of pride in their work.

Faulty Door Seals

It's crucial to keep the seals on your fridge door in good condition to maintain the temperature inside. If the seals aren't properly sealed, cold air can escape, and warm air can enter, which wastes energy and increases the risk of food spoiling. It's a good idea to check the seals regularly and call for repairs at the first sign of damage.

Problems Finding Parts

As your kitchen equipment ages, locating replacement parts may become increasingly difficult. This is a clear indication that your equipment has exceeded its recommended lifespan. Additionally, retrofitting can pose a challenge for repair technicians who must search for alternative parts to restore functionality. Not only can this be expensive, but it also elevates the risk of dangerous incidents such as fires, electrical issues, leaks of freon gas or natural gas, and more.

Unreliable Performance

Efficiency in your kitchen is paramount to providing excellent service and ensuring customer satisfaction. However, outdated commercial kitchen equipment can hinder performance and compromise the quality of your dishes. As such, it's crucial to address equipment issues promptly with professional repairs from JAC Services.

Disconcerted Staff

Having employees constantly complain about the workplace due to unreliable or unsafe equipment can lead to a high turnover rate, which is an expensive problem to have. Investing in equipment repairs can improve staff morale and help instill a sense of pride in their work.

Faulty Door Seals

It's crucial to keep the seals on your fridge door in good condition to maintain the temperature inside. If the seals aren't properly sealed, cold air can escape, and warm air can enter, which wastes energy and increases the risk of food spoiling. It's a good idea to check the seals regularly and call for repairs at the first sign of damage.

Commercial Refrigeration and Freezer Repair?

Ice is nice when it comes to keeping your refrigeration and freezer equipment operating at peak performance, and JAC Services is your partner in ensuring that happens. Our knowledgeable technicians will work closely with you and your management team to find refrigeration and food service equipment solutions that fit your business needs and budget. From repairs to preventative maintenance, JAC Services is the answer to all your refrigeration needs.

We specialize in several commercial refrigeration and freezer repair services, including:

  • Freezers
  • Coolers
  • Faucets
  • Ice Machines
  • Hot Water Heaters
  • Exhaust Hoods & Air
 Freezers James Island, SC

How Do I Know if I Need Commercial Freezer Repair?

  • Frost Buildup - Your unit should be freezing food, not itself. Consistent frost is a sign of sealing issues, which should be corrected ASAP.
  • Spoiled Food - The main goal of commercial fridges and freezers is to keep food fresh. If your food is spoiling, something is wrong.
  • Flooding - Like most commercial equipment in restaurants and kitchens, leaks are a telltale sign that you need equipment repair.
  • Strange Noises - Most commercial freezing equipment hums. But if you hear loud, unusual sounds (or even a lack of noise), it could be time to call for repairs.
  • Increased Energy Bill - One of the first signs your equipment needs repairs is that your power bill is more expensive than ever before.

Regular cleaning and maintenance are crucial to ensuring your commercial freezer is always in top condition. It's important to keep a lookout for any potential problems, as catching them early can prevent costly repairs and headaches for your business down the line. JAC Services is the go-to expert for all your commercial freezer and refrigerator maintenance needs. We offer repair services, installations, and even remote temperature monitoring to keep your business running smoothly. Don't hesitate to contact us today for all your freezer repair needs.

 Ice Machines James Island, SC

Why Choose Us?

Trust JAC Servies for the Best HVAC Repair in James Island, SC

At JAC Services, we're honored and privileged to serve homeowners and business owners in South Carolina. We're proud to have built an exceptional team of hardworking technicians and experts who are fully dedicated to providing you with HVAC repair in South Carolina - from minor repairs to major installations and everything in between.

Contact our office today so that we can learn more about your residential or commercial HVAC concerns. That way, we can provide you with a cost-effective solution, so you can continue being comfortable in your home or office.

Phone (843) 863-0465

What Clients Say About Us

Latest News in James Island, SC

Miniature golf course proposed for Folly Road, while LoveShackFancy plants roots near Kiawah

A miniature golf course with an onsite restaurant and bar has been proposed for a busy corner on James Island.The lot at Folly Road and Grimball Road Extension is currently empty and surrounded by a chain-link fence. It's across from Spyglass Seaside, a resort-style apartment complex.Plans have been submitted to transform the property into a development called Community Corner, which would include a miniature golf course with a restaurant, bar and retail space ...

A miniature golf course with an onsite restaurant and bar has been proposed for a busy corner on James Island.

The lot at Folly Road and Grimball Road Extension is currently empty and surrounded by a chain-link fence. It's across from Spyglass Seaside, a resort-style apartment complex.

Plans have been submitted to transform the property into a development called Community Corner, which would include a miniature golf course with a restaurant, bar and retail space on nearly three acres. The applicant is Grimball Corner Investments LLC.

The developer is looking to incorporate 114 parking spaces, most of which would be on another parcel across Grimball Road Extension. There is an existing traffic signal at the intersection, and sidewalks would be added to both sides of the property, renderings show.

The area is zoned for limited business, which allows for a variety of commercial uses and services that are compatible with residential areas.

Charleston’s Technical Review Committee, a staff-level look at site plans, considered Community Corner on Jan. 16. The city asked the owner to revise and resubmit plans based on concerns about stormwater runoff, flooding, traffic and other issues.

Charles Wilson of Grimball Corner Investments declined to comment about the development.

Pop-up no more

Think pink. Lots of it, in every shade.

That's what shoppers of Freshfields Village can expect when LoveShackFancy transitions from a pop-up to a permanent boutique at the Kiawah Island retail center.

New York City-based lifestyle brand was founded in 2013 by stylist, designer and creative director Rebecca Hessel Cohen who wanted to revel in the beauty of a rose-colored world.

The new Charleston area store offers an expanded selection of its uber-feminine women’s fashion and accessories, as well as perfume bedding and a children's collection.

In 2018, Cohen opened opened her first Charleston storefront at 218 King St. She now operates 20 stores throughout the U.S., from California to New York, and the United Kingdom.

Nearby in Freshfields Village, Café Eugenia, a to-go café and gourmet market, is expanding to a space next door and will be offering cooking classes and specialty workshops.

StretchLab, an assisted stretching studio, also opened 164 Gardeners Circle in the outdoor retail center. The studio offers help with increased mobility, improved posture and injury prevention through one-on-one stretch sessions for all fitness levels.

The franchise previously held a popup at the shopping center offering 15 minute demonstrations.

Another StretchLab is currently open on 151 Market St. in downtown Charleston.

Bank note

An Alabama lender has cut the ribbon on a new branch at 319 North Cedar St. in Summerville.

The site is the second in the Charleston area for Birmingham-based ServisFirst Bank, which for years has had an office in The Cigar Factory at 701 East Bay St. on the peninsula.

The Flowertown outpost will have 10 employees and features a drive-thru.

Coast-to-coast

Southern California lifestyle brand Jenni Kayne is making its Palmetto State debut on Charleston's busiest retail corridor.

The West Hollywood company said it plans to open its first retail location in the state on April 12 at 364 King St., between Calhoun Street and Burns Lane.

The 2,340-square-foot parcel will stock a full range of Jenni Kayne's coastal-inspired products, including apparel, accessories and décor. The store will also carry Oak Essentials, the founder's clean skincare line.

Drink up

A New Orleans-style restaurant in North Charleston is angling to add beer and liquor to its menu offerings.

The Seafood Pot recently applied to the S.C. Department of Revenue for on-site consumption of adult beverages in its Gas Lite Square location at 5629 Rivers Ave.

Taco 'bout Nexton

The Mexican-style restaurant El Patron Nexton is preparing to open and recently submitted an application to sell beer, wine and liquor at its at future Marketplace at Nexton space at 422 Cross Park Lane.

Premier Building Construction posted a sneak peek of the progress with floor-to-ceiling glazed overhead doors. The 2,900 square-foot restaurant will have indoor and outdoor bars and dining space.

A new chapter

A dark academia-inspired coffee shop and bookstore will officially open April 12 in Mount Pleasant.

Patrons of The Archive can buy a book, sit at the bar and enjoy a cocktail or mocktail, coffee, pastries and more in its corner spot at 700 Shelmore Blvd., near Mathis Ferry Road and the I'On neighborhood.

The store tailors to a subgenre of romance books and thrillers typically set in schools or secret societies, but will have something for everyone, owner Amanda Badeau said.

Enviro-outlet

Tanger Outlets in North Charleston will hold an Earth Day event April 19 from noon-3 p.m. with live music, native plant and bouquets sales, and a free gardening class. There will also be critters from the S.C. Aquarium, local vendors and hands-on workshops about protecting the environment.

Summerville vs James Island Scout Blog

James Island 8 Summerville 3Under the bright lights of a crucial region matchup, Summerville and James Island faced off in a highly anticipated battle. With both teams jockeying for position in the standings, the energy was electric, and the stakes couldn’t have been higher. Fans packed the stands, eager to witness a clash between two talented programs with postseason implications on the line.Both teams delivered in all aspects of the game, showcasing dominant pitching, timely hitting, and stellar defense. Clutch perfor...

James Island 8 Summerville 3

Under the bright lights of a crucial region matchup, Summerville and James Island faced off in a highly anticipated battle. With both teams jockeying for position in the standings, the energy was electric, and the stakes couldn’t have been higher. Fans packed the stands, eager to witness a clash between two talented programs with postseason implications on the line.

Both teams delivered in all aspects of the game, showcasing dominant pitching, timely hitting, and stellar defense. Clutch performances shaped the night as underclassmen stepped up and veteran leaders answered the call. From the first pitch to the final out, this game was a showcase of intensity and high-level competition.

Check out the notes and videos below for a breakdown of the top performers from this thrilling matchup!

Taj Marchand, 2026, SS, James Island, Ole Miss Commit

Talking about starting the game off with a bang!! Taj took a fastball up and out over the plate and went OPPO for a homerun that will give his future fans at Ole Miss plenty of beer showers!! Showed off a flat path while being able to stay on plane with an 87 mph FB up and out along with good bat speed and power. A high level talent that plays the game with tons of excitment and energy. Ended the game going 2/2 with 2 Rs and 2 RBI along with 2 BB while also playing a great short stop. Proved again while he is not only one of the best players in the state of SC but also one of the top players in the country. He is able to effect the game in multiple ways that can help his team help. Extremly fun player to watch play!!!

‘26 Taj Marchand goes OPPO for a HR ???? #PalmettoPower for @JamesIslandBase One of the top 27s in the country and @OleMissBSB Commit #PBFG24 Alum #TeamSC @ShooterHunt @Taj_Marchand pic.twitter.com/ZMhNL7weSQ

— Prep Baseball South Carolina (@PrepBaseball_SC) April 2, 2025

Marchand’s HR from the side https://t.co/NODb6c9qrp pic.twitter.com/dqcUL26mGG

— Prep Baseball South Carolina (@PrepBaseball_SC) April 2, 2025

Trip Ostergard, 2027, 2B, James Island

Classroom Champions: James Island teacher working to help ill students avoid missing class

JAMES ISLAND, S.C. (WCSC) - When a student misses school, it can be hard to get caught up, which has prompted a James Island teacher to start collecting materials to help.Jennifer Wakefield teaches International Baccalaureate Anthropology, AP European History and U.S. History at James Island Charter High School. Wakefield, who has worked at the school for eight years, says her students are what she likes best about her job.“These guys, like working with the kids, yeah. I like watching the light bulbs go off,” Wakefi...

JAMES ISLAND, S.C. (WCSC) - When a student misses school, it can be hard to get caught up, which has prompted a James Island teacher to start collecting materials to help.

Jennifer Wakefield teaches International Baccalaureate Anthropology, AP European History and U.S. History at James Island Charter High School. Wakefield, who has worked at the school for eight years, says her students are what she likes best about her job.

“These guys, like working with the kids, yeah. I like watching the light bulbs go off,” Wakefield says.

In a school full of kids, sickness is bound to happen, but Wakefield says she wants to be prepared.

“We’re in my IB class, so it’s a lot of work, it’s high-level work and so missing days can be super detrimental,” she says.

Some of her students have six classes a day, which she says it a lot to miss and a lot of make-up work, which can add to a student’s stress. With multiple classes and many students, she says supplies can run out quick.

“We actually just used the last, one of my last tissue containers, and so it’s either the kids have to go use toilet paper in the bathroom or I have tissues in here and so that’s one of the main things I really need,” she says. “Hand sanitizer we’re running low as well.”

She says sometimes she must purchase supplies for students out of her own pocket, and this is not always sustainable.

“These extra kind of things are really great to have and without, I wouldn’t be able to on my salary, like, be able to buy some of the stuff,” Wakefield says. “So, it’s nice to be able to give kids options and give them extra supplies that the school can’t or doesn’t provide.”

Wakefield says she wants her classroom to provide students with a calm environment to work where they can feel at home.

“School can be stressful, so I try to make it as comfortable as possible in here for them,” Wakefield says. “So, this kind of stuff are things that are extra but they do change in the way people the kids enjoy school.”

Click here to become a Live 5 Classroom Champions by donating to help fund this project.

Donors Choose collects the money, purchases the items the teacher has requested, and sends them directly to the teacher. That way, you know that your donation is used appropriately, and all donations are tax-deductible.

If you are a teacher who wants to be featured on Classroom Champions, email us at [email protected].

Copyright 2025 WCSC. All rights reserved.

James Island Town Council ends 6-year cost agreement

CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCSC) - James Island Town Council met Thursday to discuss a hot topic among community members, stirring up some concerns.The Cost Sharing Agreement between the town of James Island and the James Island Public Service District comes to an end after six years.Every year, the town sent a certain amount of money to subsidize PSD taxes for community members.The PSD deliver...

CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCSC) - James Island Town Council met Thursday to discuss a hot topic among community members, stirring up some concerns.

The Cost Sharing Agreement between the town of James Island and the James Island Public Service District comes to an end after six years.

Every year, the town sent a certain amount of money to subsidize PSD taxes for community members.

The PSD delivers water, sewer and fire services throughout the island.

Person after person spoke at public comment–the majority of whom were against the council’s decision to get rid of the cost agreement that was originally signed back in 2019.

“I was born and raised on this island. We, the people, are angry at the arrogance of imposing taxes on families after an insane inflation of the last four years,” community member Steve Browder said.

Because those PSD services were subsidized under the agreement, a handful of town residents are concerned that getting rid of them will increase PSD tax bills including water, sewer, and fire services.

However, there were a few other residents who were for this change.

“And I’m thankful for that. Don’t get me wrong. I want it to stay like that. I don’t want it to go all the way up, but at the same time, you have to understand that there is a cost to living. There’s a cost to safety. There’s a cost to growth. There’s a cost to prosperity. And unfortunately, just like we’re all talking about, inflation, things are moving up. And to do anything, whether it’s a drainage project or whether it’s an art project, it takes capital, right?” community member Schuyler Blair said.

This past year, the town sent $1.3 million to subsidize those taxes, but with this change, they’re not going to be losing money. They will reallocate that money toward the park and the art center in the town.

“So some of us will pay more, some of us will pay less depending on the value of your homes. But again, It’s not money that we are levying. It’s rates and mileage that the PSD has levied that we have been subsidizing. I say we, I mean, all this industry [has] been subsidizing,” Councilman Daniel C. Boles said.

When it came to voting to give the mayor authority to make the call, the council voted 4-1, with one councilman opposing.

“You know, I’m not sure if we’d have to do an amendment. I’m not sure how this would be handled since it is all new territory. But again, this is a complicated plan. I do agree with that. But it was a plan that I believe benefited a lot of people,” Councilman Darren “Troy” Mullinax said.

During the discussion, the majority of the council members repeatedly said they want to be frugal with their money and funds, while still providing for their community.

In fact, many of them said going away with this agreement won’t be as destructive as it sounds when comparing James Island to other nearby cities and towns.

Copyright 2025 WCSC. All rights reserved.

This Lowcountry farm has been operating for 300 years. It's one of the oldest in South Carolina.

JOHNS ISLAND — The most popular person with the animals at Legare Farms is the one with the food.On a cold and blustery March morning, Linda Legare-Berry is the day's star as she walks to a shed near the enclosure where the cows, donkeys, goats and pigs are. With part of the enclosure open, allowing the animals to wander, two Sicilian donkeys, Aurora and Coco, follow her into the shed as she gathers the stock feed pellets.Legare-Berry shoos the donkeys...

JOHNS ISLAND — The most popular person with the animals at Legare Farms is the one with the food.

On a cold and blustery March morning, Linda Legare-Berry is the day's star as she walks to a shed near the enclosure where the cows, donkeys, goats and pigs are. With part of the enclosure open, allowing the animals to wander, two Sicilian donkeys, Aurora and Coco, follow her into the shed as she gathers the stock feed pellets.

Legare-Berry shoos the donkeys away so she can close the door behind her. But Aurora and Coco wait and then follow her while she feeds the animals by hand, and almost fighting with the cows after the last of the pellets gets dumped on the ground.

Some animals have a particular taste for other morsels beyond stock feed, Legare-Berry notes.

"Coco loves marshmallows," she said as she fed the donkey.

Legare-Berry is the ninth generation of her family to work on Legare Farms, which is celebrating 300 years of operations this year. The 300-acre property is one of the oldest farms in South Carolina.

The farm, located down a long dirt drive off River Road south of the county airport, celebrated its historical milestone with a Heritage Day on March 8. The event included hayrides, antique tractors and a corn cannon. They also did demonstrations of activities that once took place on the farm, like indigo dyeing and candle makingree. There also were reenactments of the American Revolution and Civil War, both of which Legare family members fought in.

One of three siblings that runs the farm today, Legare-Berry has spent the last seven years working on a book that details its history, starting with Solomon Legare, a silver and goldsmith who immigrated from France in the late 17th century.

Legare-Berry said she worries if the history isn't written down, it will be lost to time. She hopes it will help her children and grandchildren learn the farm's past and continue running it for another 300 years.

History of cash crops and versatility

Solomon Legare bought property on Johns Island in 1725, which marked the beginning of Legare Farms. The first couple generations of Legares grew rice and indigo, Legare-Berry said. The fourth generation started growing Sea Island cotton, completing the big-three of cash crops grown on Southern plantations.

Legare-Berry said the farm did use slave labor.

"I don’t think there would be any farms anywhere in the Lowcountry that didn’t," she said. But other than one will from Thomas Legare in 1842, Legare-Berry said she hasn't been able to find other wills that mention any enslaved people by name.

She's found more information about enslaved people from records of the Johns Island Presbyterian Church, where both the Legare family as well as the enslaved laborers attended.

After the Revolutionary War, the farm stopped growing indigo. It stopped harvesting Sea Island cotton after World War I. In the 1920s, the family started growing cabbage and potatoes, Legare-Berry said. Over time they switched to grain, watermelons and cantaloupes, and started raising animals like cows and sheep.

Now, the Legares plant a variety of vegetables, like collard greens, broccoli, cauliflower, brussels sprouts and squash.

Legare-Berry said the farm has continued to work for three centuries, in part, because of its versatility.

"So many of the other farmers that we've known had one niche that they were in, and when it failed for whatever reason, they couldn’t keep going," Legare-Berry said. "Our family has apparently always been very adaptable and willing to change with the times."

Wayne O’Bryant, historian at the Center for African American History, Art and Culture in Aiken, said it's impressive for Legare Farms to remain within the family for 300 years. There are several historic properties that are no longer owned by the families they're named after, like the William Aiken House on King Street, he said.

"It's not like it's the only case, but there's not a lot of cases of people holding on to (property) from the 1700s to the present," O’Bryant said. "It's relatively rare."

Many plantations are now designated historic sites and ownership has changed to a historic society or a municipality so it could be run as a tourist destination, O’Bryant said. What makes Legare Farms interesting is that it remains an operational farm and that's how the Legares make money, he said.

Legare-Berry said it can be a difficult responsibility to keep the farm going through tough times. But she's grateful the family has a beautiful piece of property on the Stono River and has the opportunity to bring kids out to the farm to teach them more about agriculture.

"When I was a teenager, I couldn't wait to get away," Legare-Berry said. "You couldn’t drag me away now."

Looking back, she said she realizes she had an idyllic childhood being raised on the farm. While she didn't enjoy having to work growing up, she now appreciates the work ethic she developed.

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