The headline
Council honored the life and service of Officer Christopher Michael DeLong, Jr., during a solemn resolution and public presentation. The meeting also addressed transparency and policy concerns regarding data center moratoriums and Automated License Plate Reader (ALPR) technology.
Resolution Honoring the Life of Officer Christopher Michael DeLong, Jr. (1st Reading):
Council honored the life and service of Officer DeLong with a solemn resolution.
Unanimous · 7-0
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How they voted - unanimous
✓ Ben Connell✓ Russell Brazell✓ Sammie Tucker Jr.✓ Derek Shoemake✓ Jimmy Jones✓ Brant Tomlinson✓ Danny CatoeWhat this was about
The resolution honors Officer Christopher Michael DeLong, Jr., a member of the Columbia Police Department who passed away on August 29, 2026. Officer DeLong, a resident of the Lugoff-Elgin community, was recognized by Council for his dedication, compassion, and ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. The measure celebrates his role as a devoted husband, father, and professional who sought to make a difference in his community. Council members expressed deep condolences to his wife, Hannah, and his two children, Stella and Sutton, emphasizing the county's commitment to supporting the family through this grieving process. The resolution passed unanimously as a formal public acknowledgement of his service and the local impact of his loss. This act ensures his legacy is memorialized within the county's official records while providing the grieving family with a symbol of the community's support.
PASSED (Unanimous)
Who said what
» Ben Connell Chairman: offered condolences and noted the profound impact of Officer DeLong's death on the community ▶︎» Russell Brazell Vice-Chairman: expressed sympathy for the family and noted the strong support shown by the local community ▶︎» Danny Catoe Council Member: shared his own law enforcement background and empathy for the grieving family ▶︎» Jimmy Jones Council Member: honored DeLong as a hero who gave his life protecting the citizens ▶︎» Sammie Tucker Jr. Council Member: urged the community to continue supporting the family and the children long-term ▶︎Votes at a glance ▸ tap to showtap to hide
Resolution Honoring the Life of Officer Christopher Michael DeLong, Jr. (1st Reading):
Council honored the life and service of Officer DeLong with a solemn resolution.
Unanimous · 7-0
▸
detailsless
How they voted - unanimous
✓ Ben Connell✓ Russell Brazell✓ Sammie Tucker Jr.✓ Derek Shoemake✓ Jimmy Jones✓ Brant Tomlinson✓ Danny CatoeWhat this was about
The resolution honors Officer Christopher Michael DeLong, Jr., a member of the Columbia Police Department who passed away on August 29, 2026. Officer DeLong, a resident of the Lugoff-Elgin community, was recognized by Council for his dedication, compassion, and ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. The measure celebrates his role as a devoted husband, father, and professional who sought to make a difference in his community. Council members expressed deep condolences to his wife, Hannah, and his two children, Stella and Sutton, emphasizing the county's commitment to supporting the family through this grieving process. The resolution passed unanimously as a formal public acknowledgement of his service and the local impact of his loss. This act ensures his legacy is memorialized within the county's official records while providing the grieving family with a symbol of the community's support.
PASSED (Unanimous)
Who said what
» Ben Connell Chairman: offered condolences and noted the profound impact of Officer DeLong's death on the community ▶︎» Russell Brazell Vice-Chairman: expressed sympathy for the family and noted the strong support shown by the local community ▶︎» Danny Catoe Council Member: shared his own law enforcement background and empathy for the grieving family ▶︎» Jimmy Jones Council Member: honored DeLong as a hero who gave his life protecting the citizens ▶︎» Sammie Tucker Jr. Council Member: urged the community to continue supporting the family and the children long-term ▶︎
Proclamation for United for Baby Diaper Need Awareness Week (1st Reading):
Council declared September 14-20 as Diaper Need Awareness Week to support local families in crisis.
Unanimous · 7-0
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How they voted - unanimous
✓ Ben Connell✓ Russell Brazell✓ Sammie Tucker Jr.✓ Derek Shoemake✓ Jimmy Jones✓ Brant Tomlinson✓ Danny CatoeWhat this was about
This proclamation recognizes the week of September 14th through September 20th, 2026, as National Diaper Need Awareness Week in Kershaw County. Julie Huff, representing the local nonprofit United for Baby, explained that the organization provides free diapers and wipes to families struggling with the high costs of basic infant necessities, which can exceed 200 dollars per month. The initiative highlights a public health crisis where many families struggle to afford enough diapers to keep their children clean and healthy, often impacting a parent's ability to attend work or school. Council adopted the proclamation to increase local visibility and encourage donations to support these efforts. By addressing diaper need, the county aims to improve infant health and provide economic stability for local families currently facing these financial challenges.
PASSED (Unanimous)
Resolution Recognizing National Preparedness Month and the South Carolina State Guard (1st Reading):
Council recognized National Preparedness Month and honored the volunteers of the SC State Guard.
Unanimous · 7-0
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How they voted - unanimous
✓ Ben Connell✓ Russell Brazell✓ Sammie Tucker Jr.✓ Derek Shoemake✓ Jimmy Jones✓ Brant Tomlinson✓ Danny CatoeWhat this was about
This resolution designates September 2026 as National Preparedness Month and formally recognizes the contributions of the South Carolina State Guard. The State Guard, a professional volunteer organization distinct from the National Guard, provides vital support during disasters, including search and rescue, medical assistance, and logistics. Councilman Brant Tomlinson sponsored the resolution, sharing his personal experience seeing the State Guard assist communities following severe weather events like Hurricane Joaquin. The measure encourages residents to prepare for emergencies while honoring the volunteers who sacrifice their time to strengthen the state's resilience. The State Guard representative, Mr. Thigpen, emphasized the importance of their role as a force multiplier for state agencies during times of need.
PASSED (Unanimous)
Ordinance Approving a Private Hangar Contract at Kershaw County Airport (2nd Reading):
Council approved a contract for a private airport hangar to clarify ownership and tax obligations.
Unanimous · 7-0
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How they voted - unanimous
✓ Ben Connell✓ Russell Brazell✓ Sammie Tucker Jr.✓ Derek Shoemake✓ Jimmy Jones✓ Brant Tomlinson✓ Danny CatoeWhat this was about
This ordinance approves a private hangar contract at the Kershaw County Airport, allowing the tenant, Ron Prestage, to retain ownership of an existing hangar until 2036. The agreement stems from recent investments made by the licensee that qualify for abatement under Ordinance 104.2025. Because the county derives significant ad valorem tax revenue from the hangar as private property and avoids maintenance costs, Council determined that continuing private ownership is beneficial. The contract includes provisions to ensure compliance with FAA grant assurances and clarifies that the hangar will revert to county ownership at the end of the term. The measure passed unanimously following its second reading, securing the county's administrative and financial interests in the airport property.
PASSED (Unanimous)
Ordinance Establishing a Temporary Moratorium on Data Centers and Cryptocurrency Mining (2nd Reading):
Council advanced a temporary pause on new data center and crypto-mining permits to study regulations.
Unanimous · 7-0
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How they voted - unanimous
✓ Ben Connell✓ Russell Brazell✓ Sammie Tucker Jr.✓ Derek Shoemake✓ Jimmy Jones✓ Brant Tomlinson✓ Danny CatoeWhat this was about
This ordinance establishes a temporary moratorium on the acceptance and review of applications for data centers, data processing facilities, and cryptocurrency mining operations. The pause allows Council time to consider potential state-level regulatory actions and to amend the Kershaw County Unified Code of Zoning and Land Development Regulations (ZLDR). Residents expressed significant concerns during public comments regarding the impact of these facilities on water consumption, electric grid capacity, and environmental health. Chairman Connell noted that while technology is essential, a 'pause' provides the necessary space for Council to educate themselves and draft appropriate standards. The ordinance passed its second reading with unanimous support, signaling a cautious approach toward the industry's rapid growth in the county.
PASSED (Unanimous)
Ordinance Regarding Directional Signs for Hospitals and Medical Facilities (2nd Reading):
Council approved an amendment to permit directional signage for local hospitals and medical facilities.
Unanimous · 7-0
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How they voted - unanimous
✓ Ben Connell✓ Russell Brazell✓ Sammie Tucker Jr.✓ Derek Shoemake✓ Jimmy Jones✓ Brant Tomlinson✓ Danny CatoeWhat this was about
This ordinance amends the ZLDR to allow for specific directional signs pointing toward hospitals and medical facilities. The change exempts these directional markers from certain prohibited sign regulations and off-premise advertising restrictions, ensuring that visitors can easily navigate to emergency care. Councilman Derek Shoemake explained that this staff-generated proposal is intended solely to improve navigation for the public rather than serve as a method for general commercial advertising. Following the Planning Commission's review and amendments, the ordinance passed its second reading unanimously. This administrative update ensures that public health infrastructure is easily accessible throughout the county while maintaining standards against excessive or distracting signage.
PASSED (Unanimous)
Ordinance Clarifying Subdivision of Land Exemptions and Stormwater Regulations (2nd Reading):
Council updated zoning codes to align with state stormwater permits for exempt land subdivisions.
DevelopmentWater & sewer
Unanimous · 7-0
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How they voted - unanimous
✓ Ben Connell✓ Russell Brazell✓ Sammie Tucker Jr.✓ Derek Shoemake✓ Jimmy Jones✓ Brant Tomlinson✓ Danny CatoeWhat this was about
This ordinance clarifies the ZLDR regarding the subdivision of land, specifically ensuring that exempt subdivisions remain subject to state-level stormwater requirements. It clarifies that parcels created under exempt provisions may be treated as part of a Larger Common Plan (LCP) as defined by the South Carolina Department of Environmental Services (SCDES) for NPDES general permit compliance. This update is designed to ensure that small-scale development does not bypass necessary environmental oversight, particularly regarding stormwater discharges during construction. While the technical nature of the amendment led to some discussion about its broader impact, the ordinance passed its second reading to ensure that the county's regulations remain consistent with state standards and environmental protection protocols.
PASSED (Unanimous)
Ordinance Clarifying Fire Hydrant Requirements in Major and Minor Subdivisions (2nd Reading):
Council amended fire hydrant requirements to provide flexibility for minor subdivisions.
DevelopmentEMS & fire
Unanimous · 7-0
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How they voted - unanimous
✓ Ben Connell✓ Russell Brazell✓ Sammie Tucker Jr.✓ Derek Shoemake✓ Jimmy Jones✓ Brant Tomlinson✓ Danny CatoeWhat this was about
This ordinance amends Section 5:1.4-5 of the ZLDR to further clarify fire hydrant requirements for major and minor subdivisions. Councilman Derek Shoemake, who worked jointly with the county administration and fire services on the proposal, explained that the amendment helps 'right-size' fire protection expectations in rural parts of the county where existing water infrastructure may not support standard requirements. The ordinance allows for discretionary review by the Planning Commission and the Fire Marshal, ensuring that safety is prioritized while preventing undue burden on minor land developments. The amendment passed its second reading following clarification that it provides necessary flexibility without compromising ISO compliance or public safety standards.
PASSED (Unanimous)
Ordinance Increasing Boundaries of the Joint Industrial Park for Project Gemstone (3rd Reading):
Council finalized the expansion of a joint industrial park to include Project Gemstone property.
Jobs & economyParks & rec
Unanimous · 7-0
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How they voted - unanimous
✓ Ben Connell✓ Russell Brazell✓ Sammie Tucker Jr.✓ Derek Shoemake✓ Jimmy Jones✓ Brant Tomlinson✓ Danny CatoeWhat this was about
This ordinance concludes the three-reading process to increase the boundaries of the Joint Industrial Park between Kershaw and Fairfield counties. The expansion specifically adds real property associated with the economic development initiative known as 'Project Gemstone.' Under state law, adding land to a multi-county industrial park is a mandatory step to finalize Fee-in-Lieu-of-Tax (FILOT) agreements and incentivize business investment. By formally expanding the park, the county secures its ability to provide economic development benefits that attract new industry to the region. The measure passed its third reading unanimously, solidifying the legal framework required for the project's development and ensuring the county remains competitive for similar future industrial investments.
PASSED (Unanimous)
About this project: Project Gemstone »
Appointments for Employee Relations Committee (1st Reading):
Council approved the appointments of members to the county's Employee Relations Committee.
Appointments
Unanimous · 7-0
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How they voted - unanimous
✓ Ben Connell✓ Russell Brazell✓ Sammie Tucker Jr.✓ Derek Shoemake✓ Jimmy Jones✓ Brant Tomlinson✓ Danny CatoeWhat this was about
This vote authorizes the appointments to the Kershaw County Employee Relations Committee, a body mandated by county policy to manage employee grievances and internal concerns. County Administrator Danny Templar presented the list of candidates to Council, noting that the committee is an essential component of county government operations. The appointments were initially discussed during the previous meeting and were brought forward for formal approval to ensure the committee remains fully staffed and functional. Council's approval reinforces their commitment to maintaining structured, professional human resources processes for the county's workforce. The measure passed unanimously.
PASSED (Unanimous)
Motion to Amend Minutes of August 25, 2026, to Correct Vote Tallies:
Council corrected the minutes from August 25 to accurately reflect the votes on a park agreement.
Unanimous · 7-0
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How they voted - unanimous
✓ Ben Connell✓ Russell Brazell✓ Sammie Tucker Jr.✓ Derek Shoemake✓ Jimmy Jones✓ Brant Tomlinson✓ Danny CatoeWhat this was about
Council approved a motion to amend the minutes of the August 25, 2026, regular meeting. The correction addresses an error in the recorded vote tally for the multi-county park agreement. Specifically, the minutes were updated to correctly show that Councilmen Danny Catoe and Jimmy Jones were opposed to the measure, while clarifying the voting position of Councilman Brant Tomlinson. This administrative action ensures that the official historical record of the meeting is accurate and reflects the true intent of the council members involved. The amendment passed unanimously, following a review of the session's proceedings.
PASSED (Unanimous)
Discussed, no vote ▸ tap to showtap to hide
- Inmate/Road Crews: Council and the Detention Center staff discussed the logistics, legal liabilities, and historical context of using inmates for litter detail and community service.
- Flock Safety Cameras: Sheriff Lee Boan provided a presentation on the legal and operational use of ALPR systems, emphasizing that the technology does not track individual location data or use facial recognition. Council members engaged in a dialogue regarding privacy concerns and public perception.
- Project Ballast: Citizens raised concerns regarding the potential volatility of natural gas and liquid propane infrastructure near the northern fire service area.
Public comment ▸ tap to showtap to hide
Eight residents spoke during the public comment period. Topics included concerns over the Fourth Amendment implications of Flock surveillance cameras, environmental and water usage impacts of data centers, and requests for clear parameters regarding a proposed veterans monument.
Coming up ▸ tap to showtap to hide
- Cheer Competition: The first annual chair competition at North Central High School is scheduled for September 19, 2026.
- Voter Registration Drop-in: An event for residents to update registration information is set for September 15, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at 1117 Broad Street.
Independent summary, generated from the county's public video, not an official county communication.