State-Level Impact: A Conversation with Rep. Charlie Hartz

In this episode of the Aiken Corporation Podcast, Megan Pruitt sits down with Aiken City Manager Stuart Bedenbaugh for an inside look at how the city operates—and how Aiken is navigating a period of rapid growth.Stuart shares his journey into public service and breaks down the role of a city manager, offering insight into how day-to-day decisions, infrastructure investments, and long-term planning all work together to shape a community.The conversation explores what’s driving Aiken’s momentum—from its unique quality of life and strategic location to emerging industries like cyber and nuclear innovation. Stuart also discusses the transformative impact of the new downtown mixed-use building, partnerships with Savannah River National Lab and USC Aiken, and the importance of thoughtful, strategic growth.Listeners will also gain perspective on:How small decisions create long-term impactThe realities behind managing growth in a highly engaged communityThe role of public-private partnerships in economic developmentWhy listening is one of the most important leadership toolsWhether you're a business leader, community stakeholder, or resident invested in Aiken’s future, this episode offers a valuable look at the decisions and partnerships shaping what comes next.

How do decisions made in Columbia directly impact the future of Aiken?In this episode of The Aiken Corporation Podcast, Executive Director Megan Pruitt sits down with South Carolina State Representative Charlie Hartz for a conversation about leadership, policy, and the alignment between local vision and state-level action.As both a member of the South Carolina House of Representatives and a Board Member of The Aiken Corporation, Representative Hartz brings a unique perspective on how legislation, infrastructure investment, workforce development, and economic policy shape growth opportunities for communities like ours.In this episode, we discuss:• How state policy influences local economic development• The importance of business recruitment and retention strategy• Public-private partnerships and regional competitiveness• What effective advocacy looks like at the State House• Where Aiken is positioned for future momentumThis episode offers insight into how collaboration between local leaders and state officials can drive long-term prosperity for Aiken.