The headline
The Council finalized a major overhaul of local zoning and land use regulations to curb high-density development. By passing four separate ordinances on third reading, the Council established new minimum lot sizes and tightened density requirements for residential and mobile home development across the county.
Minimum Lot Size Requirement for Residential Development (3rd Reading):
Council increased the minimum lot size for new residential development to 15,000 square feet.
DevelopmentHousing
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 increases the minimum lot size for residential development throughout Kershaw County to 15,000 square feet. For areas where county sewer service is unavailable, the minimum requirement is set at half an acre. The measure aims to curb high-density housing growth that Council members have cited as a major contributor to infrastructure strain and overcrowded schools. This was the third and final reading of the ordinance, which passed unanimously. Council members framed the vote as a significant proactive step toward managing rapid growth and ensuring that new developers adhere to higher standards. The change takes immediate effect, preventing the development of smaller, denser lot patterns that were previously permissible under the older zoning code. This measure represents a key component of the Council's broader effort to overhaul local land use regulations to preserve the county's character.
PASSED (Unanimous)
Votes at a glance ▸ tap to showtap to hide
Minimum Lot Size Requirement for Residential Development (3rd Reading):
Council increased the minimum lot size for new residential development to 15,000 square feet.
DevelopmentHousing
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 increases the minimum lot size for residential development throughout Kershaw County to 15,000 square feet. For areas where county sewer service is unavailable, the minimum requirement is set at half an acre. The measure aims to curb high-density housing growth that Council members have cited as a major contributor to infrastructure strain and overcrowded schools. This was the third and final reading of the ordinance, which passed unanimously. Council members framed the vote as a significant proactive step toward managing rapid growth and ensuring that new developers adhere to higher standards. The change takes immediate effect, preventing the development of smaller, denser lot patterns that were previously permissible under the older zoning code. This measure represents a key component of the Council's broader effort to overhaul local land use regulations to preserve the county's character.
PASSED (Unanimous)
Removal of Conservation Table from Zoning Ordinance (3rd Reading):
Council temporarily removed an unused conservation table from the zoning ordinance during a code rewrite.
DevelopmentEnvironment
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 measure removes a conservation table from the current zoning ordinance that has never been utilized by any developer. Council members clarified that this is a clerical step taken while the county is in the process of a comprehensive rewrite of the Unified Code of Zoning and Land Development Regulations (ZLDR). The table is expected to be reintroduced in a more functional form later this year as part of that broader regulatory overhaul. The ordinance passed on third reading with unanimous support after Council members received assurances that conservation-style development options would return to the county's toolkit. By removing the ineffective table now, the county simplifies the current code while preparing to implement more effective conservation planning tools in the future.
PASSED (Unanimous)
Who said what
» Derek Shoemake Council Member: clarified that the table was unused and is being removed temporarily during the ongoing zoning code rewrite. ▶︎» Russell Brazell Vice-Chairman: noted that he initially opposed the removal but is now supportive because the conservation option will return in a future form. ▶︎
Technical Correction to Zoning Ordinance Table (3rd Reading):
Council corrected errors in the zoning ordinance regarding triplex and quadruplex designations.
Development
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 corrects technical typos found within the zoning ordinance tables that incorrectly listed triplex and quadruplex categories. Council members described the fix as a routine clerical adjustment to ensure the code is accurate and readable for developers and staff. By eliminating these incorrectly applied categories, the county resolves internal conflicts within the document where terms were listed correctly in one section but erroneously in another. The measure passed on its third reading with a unanimous vote. This action is part of a larger, ongoing process to clean up the zoning code, ensuring that the regulations are clear and easy to enforce. No significant controversy or public opposition was noted regarding this correction.
PASSED (Unanimous)
Reduction of Mobile Home Density (3rd Reading):
Council reduced the maximum density for mobile home parks from six units to three units.
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 reduces the permitted density for mobile home developments in the county's highest-density areas from six units to three units. Council members explained that this aligns mobile home park standards with the new minimum residential lot size requirements passed earlier in the meeting. By bringing these regulations into balance, the Council aims to maintain consistent standards for all housing types throughout the county. The measure, which passed on third reading, is intended to serve as a check against high-density development patterns. Council members noted that this specific change, in conjunction with the new lot size requirements, will immediately prevent several types of dense housing projects that were previously allowed. This is considered a major milestone in the Council's current initiative to reshape local land use policies.
PASSED (Unanimous)
Amendment to Joint County Industrial Park Agreement (2nd Reading):
Council expanded the joint industrial park to include Pinnacle Precast for economic development.
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 approves the second reading of an amendment to the joint industrial park agreement between Kershaw and Fairfield counties. The primary purpose of this expansion is to incorporate the Pinnacle Precast property into the multi-county industrial park. While the facility already has a Fee-in-Lieu-of-Tax (FILOT) agreement in place, this move allows the company to access specific job credits and grant opportunities associated with the joint park structure. Officials noted that this is a routine economic development tool used by the county to incentivize business growth and job creation. The expansion received unanimous support from the Council. It will now head to a public hearing scheduled for September 12 before receiving final approval. This agreement reflects the ongoing regional strategy of partnering with neighboring counties to bolster local industrial competitiveness.
PASSED (Unanimous)
Amendment to Stormwater Management Ordinance (1st Reading):
Council passed an amendment to clarify the county's legal responsibilities for stormwater enforcement.
Water & 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 amends the Kershaw County Stormwater Management Ordinance to clarify that the county is not mandated to enforce DHEC permits outside of its designated Small Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS-4) area, which covers Lugoff and Elgin. By changing mandatory language from shall to may, the Council provides the county with the discretion to decide whether to intervene in stormwater issues that fall under DHEC's primary jurisdiction. Officials emphasized that this change protects the county from assuming unnecessary legal liability and administrative costs for issues that are properly the responsibility of the state. The measure passed on first reading unanimously. It will move to a public hearing on September 12. Council members viewed this as a necessary reform to streamline local government operations and reduce the burden of state-level enforcement on limited county resources.
PASSED (Unanimous)
Amendment regarding RV Park Stay Limits (1st Reading):
Council introduced an ordinance to increase RV park stay limits from three months to nine months.
Parks & 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 adjusts the zoning regulations for RV parks by increasing the maximum consecutive stay limit from three months to nine months. The change also mandates that park operators maintain a guest registry, which aligns with state requirements and provides county zoning staff with an enforcement mechanism to verify compliance. The ordinance is designed to accommodate workers who are in the county for long-term projects and need more than the current 90-day window. While some Council members initially expressed concerns about imposing any time limits at all, they agreed to support this increase on first reading to see how it affects local business owners. A public hearing is set for September 12, and further amendments could be considered as the Council evaluates the impact on local RV park operators.
PASSED (Unanimous)
Who said what
» Derek Shoemake Council Member: explained that the change helps workers stay longer and adds a registry requirement for better enforcement. ▶︎» Jimmy Jones Council Member: expressed skepticism about any limit but supported the ordinance to support local business while signaling potential future changes. ▶︎
Lease Agreement for Mount Pisgah Resource Center (1st Reading):
Council approved a lease agreement for the Mount Pisgah Community and Resource Center.
County property
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 formal lease and operating agreement for the Mount Pisgah Resource Center. The county, which acquired the former school site from the school district, will lease the facility to the Mount Pisgah Community and Resource Center, a 501c3 nonprofit organization, for $1 per year. The agreement sets a five-year term with a five-year automatic renewal, though any extension beyond 10 years will require further Council approval. It clearly defines the rules for maintenance and operational oversight of the property. Council members praised the work of Councilman Danny Catoe in securing this agreement, which fulfills a project vision that began with previous funding appropriations in 2022. The measure passed unanimously on first reading and is viewed as a vital step in supporting community-led services in the northern part of the county.
PASSED (Unanimous)
Inducement Resolution for Project Tree (Resolution):
Council passed an inducement resolution for an $80 million industrial investment known as Project Tree.
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 unanimously passed an inducement resolution for a project identified as Project Tree, which involves an anticipated $80 million investment in the county. This resolution serves as a formal statement of intent, indicating that if the project proceeds with the planned investment, the county will enter into a Fee-in-Lieu-of-Tax (FILOT) agreement at a future date to support the company. While the resolution is not a final, legally binding contract, it is a standard economic development tool used to signal the county's commitment to potential large-scale employers. Council members expressed strong support for the potential job growth associated with an investment of this size. This project is expected to be a major economic contributor to the area, pending the successful completion of subsequent development and financial agreements.
PASSED (Unanimous)
About this project: Project Tree »
Appointment of Chris Renfro to Tourism Advisory Committee:
Chris Renfro was appointed to the Tourism Advisory Committee to represent the hospitality sector.
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
Council unanimously appointed Chris Renfro to the Tourism Advisory Committee (ATAC). Renfro, a local business owner who operates the Renfro Ranch Campground in Lugoff, was nominated to represent the hospitality and lodging sector. Council members highlighted Renfro as an example of a dedicated, homegrown entrepreneur who is actively involved in the community. His appointment is expected to provide valuable local perspective to the committee, which oversees tourism-related initiatives in Kershaw County. There were no competing nominees for the seat, and the Council moved quickly to confirm his appointment after a brief introduction of his business contributions to the area.
PASSED (Unanimous)
Appointment of Paul White, Paul Curtis, and Scott Chambers to Airport Commission:
Council appointed three new members to serve on the Airport Commission.
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
Following a series of nominations, the Council unanimously appointed Paul White, Paul Curtis, and Scott Chambers to the Airport Commission. These appointments fill the vacancies on the commission, which is responsible for the oversight and development of the county's airport facilities. All three nominees were present during the meeting and expressed their willingness to serve the community. The Council members noted that there were several applicants interested in these roles, signaling strong public interest in local governance. Council leadership encouraged those not selected in this round to continue seeking opportunities to serve on other boards and commissions, as many vacancies remain available throughout the county.
PASSED (Unanimous)
Appointment of Leo Scott to Health Services District Seat 3:
Leo Scott was reappointed to Seat 3 of the Health Services District.
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
Council voted unanimously to reappoint Leo Scott to Seat 3 of the Health Services District. Councilman Derek Shoemake, who represents the district where Scott resides, requested the appointment, noting that Scott brings a valuable finance background to the board. Because of specific statutory term limit requirements, Scott is serving a shortened term, but Council members agreed that his expertise remains critical for the board's ongoing financial oversight. Scott, who had been serving on the board previously, was reappointed to continue his work in this capacity.
PASSED (Unanimous)
Appointment of Donnie Wilson to Health Services District At-Large Seat:
Donnie Wilson was reappointed to the Health Services District At-Large seat in a 5-0 vote.
Appointments
Yes 5 · No 0
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How they voted - unanimous
✓ 5 members voted yesThe meeting video recorded this as a vote count without naming each member individually; the member-by-member roll is added automatically once the county posts the official minutes.
What this was about
Council reappointed Donnie Wilson to the At-Large seat of the Health Services District with a 5-0 vote, while Councilman Ben Connell abstained. Supporters praised Wilson for his extensive background in finance and his years of service to the school district, describing him as a financial expert essential to the board's success. The appointment ensures continuity as the district manages the transition and settlement of matters related to the sale of the former hospital. Councilman Russell Brazell noted that he chose to abstain from the vote due to personal disagreement with the procedural approach to filling this specific vacancy, though he clarified that his stance was not a reflection on Wilson's personal character or qualifications.
PASSED For 5 · Against 0 (-1, B. Connell abstained)
Discussed, no vote ▸ tap to showtap to hide
- Rules of Order Amendment: A proposal to require all financial requests to be presented to the full Council before referral to the Finance Committee FAILED For 3 · Against 4.
- Zoning Map Amendment (Case 23-13): A request to rezone 4.05 acres on Jupiter Road from RD2 to B2 failed to receive a motion and was not voted upon.
- Economic Development: Council members expressed significant concerns regarding a rumored 750-home development in the Camden/District 6 area, citing strain on infrastructure and schools.
- Reburial Ceremony Accountability: Council members Jones and Cato requested an investigation into the transparency and use of public funds by the South Carolina Battlefield Trust and Historic Camden regarding a recent private reburial event on public property.
Public comment ▸ tap to showtap to hide
- Scott Chambers: Spoke regarding the Airport Commission, noting his experience as a pilot and interest in serving on the commission.
- Tom Webb: Provided an update on the Watery Trash Festival and shared a poem about community volunteerism and litter prevention.
- Correspondence: A public comment regarding a potential real estate transaction was submitted via email by Matt Hutchinson and distributed to Council members.
Coming up ▸ tap to showtap to hide
- Comprehensive Plan Public Meetings: October 3, 2023.
- Next Council Meeting: September 12, 2023 (Scheduled public hearings for Stormwater Management Ordinance and RV Park regulations).
- Board Appointments: Upcoming appointments scheduled for Library Board, Board of Zoning and Appeals, Clean Community Commission, and Old English District.
Independent summary, generated from the county's public video, not an official county communication.