The headline
Council approves 180-day moratorium on major subdivision applications. The council voted to pause the acceptance and processing of major subdivision applications within unincorporated areas of the county. This decision follows a broader debate among council members regarding the best approach to manage rapid growth and preserve environmental resources.
180-day moratorium on major subdivision approvals (1st Reading):
Council approved a 180-day pause on major subdivision applications to manage rapid county growth.
Development
Yes 6 · No 2
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How they voted
✗ S. Tucker Jr✗ B. ConnellWhat this was about
The Council passed a ordinance can become law; mostly procedural." style="border-bottom:1px dotted #9db9dd;cursor:help;text-decoration:none;">first reading of an ordinance establishing a 180-day moratorium on the acceptance and processing of major subdivision applications in unincorporated areas. A key amendment from Councilman Brant Tomlinson expanded the pause to include minor subdivisions of two or more lots, though single-family residences on one lot remain exempt. Councilman Jimmy Jones, who sponsored the measure, emphasized the need to protect environmental resources as mandated by state law. The move sparked considerable discussion about the balance between property rights and the preservation of rural character. Council members Sammie Tucker Jr. and Ben Connell voted against the motion. This temporary freeze is designed to give the Council time to evaluate development impacts and refine long-term growth policies before the moratorium expires.
PASSED For 6 · Against 2 (S. Tucker Jr. and B. Connell voted NO)
Who said what
» Jimmy Jones, Councilman: I am fully in support of the 180-day moratorium and ask my colleagues to take in consideration the impact this will have on the communities and the development.
Votes at a glance ▸ tap to showtap to hide
Adoption of agenda as amended:
Council approved the meeting agenda after removing an item regarding Freedom of Information Act requirements.
Yes 7 · No 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 Council formally adopted the evening's agenda following a procedural change. Councilman Jimmy Jones requested to remove Item 7A, which was slated to be a discussion on FOIA requirements. The motion to delete that specific topic was seconded by Councilman Sammie Tucker Jr. and passed unanimously. Chairman Ben Connell also shuffled the order of business, moving specific agenda items to follow the public comment session. This routine administrative action ensures all participants and staff are aligned on the topics to be addressed during the meeting. No further substantive changes were made to the schedule of business before the Council proceeded with the rest of the evening's items.
PASSED For 7 · Against 0 (Unanimous)
Approval of minutes for May 27, 2025 meeting:
Council approved the official minutes from the meeting, with Councilman Jimmy Jones abstaining.
Yes 6 · No 0
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How they voted - unanimous
✓ Ben Connell✓ Russell Brazell✓ Sammie Tucker Jr.✓ Derek Shoemake✓ Brant Tomlinson✓ Danny CatoeWhat this was about
This item involved the formal approval of the minutes from the current meeting. Councilman Sammie Tucker Jr. moved for the approval, and it was seconded by Councilman Danny Catoe. Councilman Jimmy Jones abstained from the vote, citing his absence from the specific portion of the meeting being recorded in those minutes. The rest of the Council voted in favor of the record. Maintaining accurate minutes is a vital part of the county's transparency efforts, ensuring that official proceedings are documented for future reference and public scrutiny. This action serves as the final certification of the night's administrative record.
PASSED For 6 · Against 0 (J. Jones abstained)
Hire Register of Deeds recommendation:
Council confirmed the hiring of Kelley Josey as the new Register of Deeds.
Yes 7 · No 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
County Administrator Danny Templar recommended Kelley Josey to fill the Register of Deeds position, following the retirement of long-time official Billie McLeod. Ms. Josey brings over 20 years of professional experience to the role, which Council members noted as a significant asset for the county. The Register of Deeds is responsible for the crucial task of recording property transactions and maintaining public land records. Councilman Sammie Tucker Jr. moved to approve the administrator's recommendation, and it was seconded by Councilman Danny Catoe. The appointment was approved unanimously by the Council, ensuring a seamless transition in this critical county department.
PASSED For 7 · Against 0 (Unanimous)
Who said what
» Danny Templar, County Administrator: Ms. Josey brings to Kershaw County a wealth of knowledge and experience pertaining to Register of Deeds with over 20 years of experience.
Appointment of District 4 to the Kershaw Health District:
Council reappointed Derial Ogburn to the Kershaw Health District for a six-year term.
Appointments
Yes 7 · No 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 Council voted to fill a board vacancy representing District 4 on the Kershaw Health District. Councilman Jimmy Jones nominated Derial Ogburn for the seat, citing the need for continued oversight in local health governance. The motion was seconded by Councilman Derek Shoemake and passed with unanimous support. This appointment ensures that the district maintains consistent leadership, as Mr. Ogburn will serve a full six-year term. The Health District plays an essential role in coordinating medical resources and public health initiatives across the county, making these appointments important for local service delivery.
PASSED For 7 · Against 0 (Unanimous)
Public Presentation by Karriem Edwards:
Council heard a presentation from the South Carolina Center for Fathers and Families regarding fatherhood programs.
Yes 7 · No 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
Karriem Edwards, president of the South Carolina Center for Fathers and Families, provided a presentation on the impact of fatherhood and the resources available to help local men succeed as parents. The organization aims to empower fathers facing various economic and social challenges, serving over 3,000 participants in 2024 through programs focused on employment and healthy relationships. Mr. Edwards requested the county adopt a proclamation to recognize June as Elevate Fatherhood Month. Council members Sammie Tucker Jr. and Derek Shoemake agreed to sponsor the upcoming proclamation. The presentation was met with unanimous support from the Council, highlighting the community's interest in programs that promote family stability and economic mobility.
PASSED For 7 · Against 0 (Unanimous)
Who said what
» Karriem Edwards, President of SC Center for Fathers and Families: The SCCFF is committed to empowering fathers facing economic, social, and personal challenges across all 46 counties of South Carolina.
Zoning Ordinance for Saw Mill business at 1045 Highway 1 North (1st Reading):
Council passed the first reading to rezone a 3.75-acre parcel for a new saw mill business.
Development
Yes 4 · No 3
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How they voted
✓ Ben Connell✓ Russell Brazell✓ Brant Tomlinson✓ Danny Catoe✗ Derek Shoemake✗ Sammie Tucker Jr.✗ Jimmy JonesWhat this was about
This ordinance seeks to rezone a 3.75-acre property at 1045 Highway 1 North in Cassatt from Rural Resource District (MRD-1) to General Development (GD) to allow the owners to operate a saw mill. The proposal drew debate among council members regarding the appropriate land use for the area. Despite opposition from council members Derek Shoemake, Sammie Tucker Jr., and Jimmy Jones, the first reading passed 4-3 with support from Chairman Connell, Russell Brazell, Brant Tomlinson, and Danny Catoe. The rezoning process will require further readings before it is finalized. Residents concerned about property usage and rural character may have opportunities to voice their opinions at subsequent public hearings before the measure is fully enacted.
PASSED For 4 · Against 3 (D. Shoemake, S. Tucker Jr., and J. Jones voted NO)
Special Source Revenue Credit Agreement (1st Reading in Title Only):
Council approved the first reading of an agreement to provide infrastructure credits for a new business.
Taxes & budget
Yes 7 · No 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 authorizes a Special Source Revenue Credit (SSRC) agreement between Kershaw County and 'Project NAM,' a business initiative expected to bring 50 new jobs to the area. By certifying the location as a textile mill site under state law, the county can offer infrastructure credits to help offset development costs. Economic Development Director Jeff Burgess presented the request to the Council, noting that specifics remain limited as the ordinance was read in title only. The Council unanimously approved the first reading, which serves as an initial step in incentivizing this project. This agreement is intended to foster economic growth and industrial expansion within the county, though additional details regarding the contract terms will be reviewed in upcoming sessions.
PASSED For 7 · Against 0 (Unanimous)
Who said what
» Jeff Burgess, Economic Development Director: Project NAM plans to bring 50 jobs to Kershaw County.
Catoe Amendment #1 to budget appropriations ordinance:
Council passed an amendment to adjust millage rates and fees in the upcoming fiscal year budget.
Taxes & budget
Yes 6 · No 1
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How they voted
✓ Ben Connell✓ Russell Brazell✓ Sammie Tucker Jr.✓ Derek Shoemake✓ Brant Tomlinson✓ Danny Catoe✗ Jimmy JonesWhat this was about
Councilman Danny Catoe introduced an amendment to the budget that alters tax and fee structures for the 2025-2026 fiscal year. The change reduces the proposed millage increase from 4 mills to 3.5 mills, while directing 0.5 mills toward solid waste funding. Additionally, the amendment decreases the solid waste fee from $32.00 to $26.70 and increases the fire budget by 3 mills while lowering the proposed fire fee from $45.00 to $17.00. Proponents argued these adjustments utilize Local Option Sales Tax revenue to prevent net cost increases for taxpayers. The amendment passed with a 6-1 vote, with Councilman Jimmy Jones dissenting. This budget adjustment represents a significant shift in how the county funds essential services like fire protection and waste management.
PASSED For 6 · Against 1 (J. Jones voted NO)
Who said what
» Danny Catoe, Councilman: The reason for wanting to decrease to 3.5 mills would be absolutely no cost to the taxpayers due to the Local Option Sales Tax.
Tucker Amendment #2 to budget appropriations ordinance:
Council authorized moving $547,762 from fire reserves to fund new fire truck purchases.
Taxes & budget
Yes 7 · No 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
Councilman Sammie Tucker Jr. successfully motioned to transfer $547,762 from the fire reserve fund to fire operations to facilitate the purchase of two new fire trucks. Administrator Danny Templar noted that the county found a unique opportunity to acquire the vehicles at a significant discount because another municipality canceled their order. By acting now, the county avoids potential multi-year wait times and future cost escalations for similar equipment. The transfer does not increase the total budget but shifts existing funds to take advantage of this procurement opportunity. The measure received unanimous approval from the Council, reflecting a consensus on the need to upgrade critical public safety equipment while securing favorable pricing.
PASSED For 7 · Against 0 (Unanimous)
Who said what
» Danny Templar, County Administrator: This is a great opportunity to save money on two trucks for the price of one and it is a great opportunity for staff.
180-day moratorium on major subdivision approvals (1st Reading):
Council approved a 180-day pause on major subdivision applications to manage rapid county growth.
Development
Yes 6 · No 2
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detailsless
How they voted
✗ S. Tucker Jr✗ B. ConnellWhat this was about
The Council passed a first reading of an ordinance establishing a 180-day moratorium on the acceptance and processing of major subdivision applications in unincorporated areas. A key amendment from Councilman Brant Tomlinson expanded the pause to include minor subdivisions of two or more lots, though single-family residences on one lot remain exempt. Councilman Jimmy Jones, who sponsored the measure, emphasized the need to protect environmental resources as mandated by state law. The move sparked considerable discussion about the balance between property rights and the preservation of rural character. Council members Sammie Tucker Jr. and Ben Connell voted against the motion. This temporary freeze is designed to give the Council time to evaluate development impacts and refine long-term growth policies before the moratorium expires.
PASSED For 6 · Against 2 (S. Tucker Jr. and B. Connell voted NO)
Who said what
» Jimmy Jones, Councilman: I am fully in support of the 180-day moratorium and ask my colleagues to take in consideration the impact this will have on the communities and the development.
Lugoff Fire Department budget increase of 7.62 mills:
Council approved a 7.62-mill tax increase for the Lugoff Fire Department to balance their budget.
Taxes & budgetEMS & fire
Yes 7 · No 0
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How they voted - unanimous
✓ Ben Connell✓ Russell Brazell✓ Derek Shoemake✓ Sammie Tucker Jr.✓ Danny Catoe✓ Brant Tomlinson✓ Jimmy JonesWhat this was about
Fire Chief Chris Spitzer presented an overview of the Lugoff Fire Department’s budget, requesting a 7.62-mill increase, totaling approximately $400,000. Chief Spitzer explained that the department has not seen a tax increase since 2012 and warned that without these funds, the department would be forced to terminate staff, cancel raises, and cut critical line items. The Council unanimously approved the request, recognizing the necessity of maintaining operational standards and emergency service capacity. This funding boost aims to ensure the department can continue to provide safe and effective services to the residents of Lugoff. The decision highlights the growing financial pressures facing local public safety agencies amidst rising operational costs.
PASSED For 7 · Against 0 (Unanimous)
Who said what
» Chris Spitzer, Lugoff Fire Chief: If I do not receive the mills increase, I will sadly have to terminate some staff, deny promotions, cost of living increases, and raises.
Request for $30,000 donation to Catawba Wateree Water Management Group:
Council rejected a $30,000 donation request to help address algae issues on Lake Wateree.
Water & sewer
Yes 3 · No 4
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How they voted
✓ Russell Brazell✓ Danny Catoe✓ Jimmy Jones✗ Sammie Tucker Jr.✗ Derek Shoemake✗ Ben Connell✗ Brant TomlinsonWhat this was about
Vice-Chairman Russell Brazell moved to provide a $30,000 one-time donation to the Catawba Wateree Water Management Group (CWWMG) to address persistent algae blooms on Lake Wateree. While the funds were available within existing sewer or utility budgets, some council members questioned the fairness of the county bearing the cost without assurance that other participating entities were contributing an equal share. Following a debate regarding the scope of the county's responsibility and the effectiveness of the proposed funding, the motion failed in a 3-4 vote. Councilman Sammie Tucker Jr., Derek Shoemake, Ben Connell, and Brant Tomlinson voted against the donation. The issue remains a point of concern for lakefront residents, many of whom addressed the council during public comments regarding the state of the water.
FAILED For 3 · Against 4 (S. Tucker Jr., D. Shoemake, B. Connell, and B. Tomlinson voted NO)
Exit Executive Session:
Council concluded their private executive session discussion regarding legal matters.
Yes 4 · No 0
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How they voted - unanimous
✓ Ben Connell✓ Sammie Tucker Jr.✓ Brant Tomlinson✓ Danny CatoeWhat this was about
After deliberating on matters covered by attorney-client privilege, the Council voted to exit the executive session. The session was held to discuss legal advice related to potential or pending claims under S.C. Code section 30-4-70 (a)(2). The motion to exit was made by Councilman Sammie Tucker Jr. and seconded by Councilman Brant Tomlinson. Only five council members remained to vote on the exit, as Vice-Chairman Russell Brazell and Councilman Jimmy Jones did not return to the dais. This private session is a standard procedure that allows the Council to confer with legal counsel without violating transparency laws regarding public disclosure of sensitive information.
PASSED For 4 · Against 0 (Unanimous)
Adjourn meeting:
Council voted to adjourn the meeting at 10:51 p.m.
Yes 4 · No 0
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How they voted - unanimous
✓ Sammie Tucker Jr.✓ Derek Shoemake✓ Brant Tomlinson✓ Danny CatoeWhat this was about
Following the conclusion of all business items and the executive session, the Council moved to officially adjourn the May 27, 2025, meeting. Councilman Danny Catoe made the motion to adjourn, seconded by Councilman Sammie Tucker Jr. The vote to close the meeting was unanimous among the five members present at the time. This final action effectively ended a long evening of debate on budget amendments, development moratoriums, and local fire department funding. The Council is scheduled to reconvene for their next regular meeting on June 10, 2025.
PASSED For 4 · Against 0 (Unanimous)
Discussed, no vote ▸ tap to showtap to hide
- Brazell Amendment #3 to budget appropriations ordinance: This motion failed; however, the tally provided in the official minutes for the motion itself is noted as a failure among the documented proceedings.
- Approval to Live Stream Planning Commission Meetings: Councilman Jimmy Jones introduced a motion to stream Planning Commission meetings, but the motion was withdrawn by the sponsor following discussion regarding logistics and costs.
Public comment ▸ tap to showtap to hide
Residents addressed the council regarding growth and development concerns, the proposed moratorium, and issues related to algae at Lake Wateree. Speakers included Helen Crolley, Ted Brunson, Mike Burkott, Michele Sanger, Barbara Tatge, Linda Kanatzar, Lynne Conto, Di Dubose, Thomas Allen, Laura Bowen, Ron Cooper, Amanda Outen, Autumn Dunlap, and Ken Koth.
Coming up ▸ tap to showtap to hide
- Regular Council Meeting: June 10, 2025.
- Special Called Meeting: June 17, 2025.
This is an independent summary prepared from the county's official published minutes, not an official county communication.