Council approves Economic Development incentives and moves to address airport/equine land use concerns
The council voted to finalize tax incentive agreements for Project New Life, a $16 million expansion project expected to create 32 jobs. Additionally, council members began the process of drafting zoning text amendments to clarify regulations for event venues and pole barns, aiming to balance agricultural land use with commercial needs.
Fee-In-Lieu of Taxes Agreement for Project New Life (3rd Reading):
Taxes & budget
Unanimous · 7-0
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detailsless
PASSED (Unanimous)
Votes at a glance ▸ showhide
Fee-In-Lieu of Taxes Agreement for Project New Life (3rd Reading):
Taxes & budget
Unanimous · 7-0
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detailsless
PASSED (Unanimous)
Textile Mill Site Certification for Former TB Kawashima Site (3rd Reading):
Unanimous · 7-0
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detailsless
PASSED (Unanimous)
Memorandum of Understanding with Health Services District of Kershaw County:
Parks & rec
Yes 6 · No 1
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PASSED For 6 · Against 1. This MOU formally commits ARPA funds to ongoing recreation projects including Woodward Park
Housekeeping/Procedural Votes (Agenda adoption, minutes approval, appointments, executive session):
Appointments
Unanimous · 7-0
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PASSED (Unanimous). The council appointed Alfred Mae Drakeford to the Santee-Lynches Regional COG Board and finalized Grievance Committee appointments
Discussed, no vote ▸ showhide
- Airport and Land Use: The council heard from multiple speakers regarding the proposed Airport Overlay District and its impact on the local equine industry. Council members emphasized that they seek a balanced plan that protects both the airport and traditional horse-related property uses.
- Charitable Donations: Chairman Connell highlighted the value of charitable services donated to the county, noting that businesses providing such services should be recognized for tax purposes.
- Airport Hangar Strategy: Ron Prestage, a local pilot and airport stakeholder, recommended the county adopt a policy allowing private investment in hangars as an economic development tool to attract corporate aviation.
Coming up ▸ showhide
- Planning & Zoning: The Planning Department and County Attorney are tasked with drafting potential ZLDR text amendments regarding pole barn permitting and event venue zoning.
- Project Bids: Bids for the Woodward Park project are expected late in the week of December 10, 2024, with updates expected in January.
- Next Meetings: Future council discussions will include further refinement of the Airport Overlay District and progress reports on the KC West development.
This is an independent summary prepared from the county's official published minutes and the meeting's live stream, not an official county communication.