Why Mark Smith?
To understand Mark Smith’s qualifications to run for Council, one must first understand Mark’s background, passionate entrepreneurial spirit, and belief in the reality of the American Dream. To use Mark’s words, “I believe in the American Dream because I live it—my family, my work, my church—I have been blessed in countless ways in my life, and particularly by this community, and public service is one of the ways I try to give back.”
Mark’s service and leadership experience is extensive, and includes:
What does this have to do with running for office?
Running a small business and leading non-profits in this community have given Mark insight and experience that would be valuable service as a member of Council. “As a small businessman, the need to be efficient and fiscally responsible is ingrained in me. But it’s been during my years of volunteer service in non-profits that I’ve expanded my thinking about how to accomplish more with less. You can’t let funding guide your vision or your quest for excellence—you must think creatively, explore options, and sometimes blaze new trails. My desire is to bring that perspective to town council.”
As the co-owner and vice president of McAlister-Smith Funeral Homes and Palmetto Cremation Society, Mark is well aware of the challenges of doing business in Charleston County. With four locations and over 20 employees, he is also well connected to the hard work that goes into earning a paycheck. “My employees pay enough in taxes. My family pays enough in taxes. It’s time for county council to treat every dime they collect and spend like a sacred trust, because that’s what it is.”
Mark’s true passion, of course, is his family: His wife of 17 years, Elayne Forastiere Smith, and his three sons, Parker (age 14), Avery (age 13), both attending Cario Middle School, and Domenic (age 10), attending Pinckney Elementary School. They are a family that plays together, and serves together at Seacoast Church. As family life pertains to government, Mark says, “Like all parents, Elayne and I want the very best for our children. We are trying to instill in them our morals and values, it is important to me that government doesn’t try to interfere with our efforts in raising the boys. I believe decisions made by elected officials should always be made with respect to the impact on families.”
This is Mark’s first time to seek public office, but he was inspired to run by the encouragement of family, friends, employees, other small business owners, and Republican leaders. All across South Carolina voters have responded to the fresh perspectives offered by political newcomers, and the optimism they offer. Mark says, “I’ve never considered running before, because I wasn’t interested in the political games. But my involvement with the recent elections convinced me that voters of every creed and color are tired of political games, too. They want new ideas, solutions, and accountability. And that’s what I plan to provide.”
