The headline
Council passed the second reading of a temporary moratorium on major subdivision approvals. The ordinance, which seeks to pause specific development while the county updates its comprehensive plan and land use ordinances, now moves toward a third reading and public hearing following a 4-1 vote. Council members indicated they are working on potential amendments regarding the definition of small subdivisions to reach a broader consensus before the final vote.
Second Reading of 180-day moratorium ordinance:
Council approved a temporary moratorium on major subdivision approvals, with plans for future adjustments.
Yes 4 · No 1
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How they voted
✓ 4 members voted yes✗ Sammie Tucker Jr.The official minutes recorded this vote as a count without listing each member by name.
What this was about
Council passed the second reading of an ordinance establishing a temporary 180-day moratorium on the acceptance and processing of major subdivision applications. The measure is designed to pause high-density development while the county updates its comprehensive plan and land use ordinances. Council members Derek Shoemake, Brant Tomlinson, Jimmy Jones, and Ben Connell voted in favor, while Sammie Tucker Jr. cast the dissenting vote. Discussion focused on the balance between managing rapid growth and protecting private property rights. Council members indicated they intend to refine the definition of minor subdivisions and potentially narrow the scope of the moratorium through amendments before the third and final reading. A public hearing is scheduled for July 8, 2025, with a final vote expected on July 22, 2025, allowing time for Council to reach a consensus on the final language.
PASSED For 4 · Against 1
Who said what
» Derek Shoemake Council Member: proposed a compromise to redefine small subdivisions to better protect small business owners ▶︎» Jimmy Jones Council Member: supported the moratorium but urged his colleagues to continue refining the policy ▶︎» Ben Connell Chairman: expressed skepticism about the impact on private property rights ▶︎Votes at a glance ▸ tap to showtap to hide
Proclamation for Elevate Fatherhood Month:
Council proclaimed June 2025 as Elevate Fatherhood Month to support fatherhood initiatives in Kershaw County.
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 County Council officially designated June 2025 as Elevate Fatherhood Month to recognize the vital role fathers play in the development and well-being of families and the broader community. This proclamation highlights the collaborative efforts between the South Carolina Center for Fathers and Families and the Midlands Fatherhood Coalition, which provides resources, job training, and mentorship to help men navigate fatherhood responsibilities. During the meeting, members of the Midlands Fatherhood Coalition presented data showing the positive impact of their programs, including increased child support payments and improved family stability. Council members emphasized that supporting these fathers leads to reduced poverty, lower crime rates, and better outcomes for children. This ceremonial recognition aims to encourage citizens to honor the fathers in their lives and promotes ongoing community support for programs that help fathers succeed as responsible parents.
PASSED (Unanimous)
Second Reading of rezoning ordinance for 1045 Highway 1 North:
The motion to rezone 3.75 acres from Rural Resource to General Development failed due to no second.
Development
Yes 0 · No 0
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✓ Every member present voted yes
What this was about
Council considered a request to rezone a 3.75-acre parcel located at 1045 Highway 1 North in Cassatt from MRD-1, Rural Resource District, to GD, General Development District. The rezoning was intended to facilitate a change in land use for the property, but the motion to proceed to a second reading failed to receive a second from any Council member present. Consequently, the ordinance died on the floor. Residents from the nearby area had previously voiced concerns regarding potential noise, the lack of a site plan, and the impact such a rezoning could have on the character of their rural neighborhood. The failure of this motion effectively halts the rezoning request for the time being, maintaining the property's current zoning designation.
FAILED For 0 · Against 0. The motion to approve the rezoning failed due to a lack of a second
Second Reading of Special Source Revenue Credit Agreement for Project NAM:
Council passed the second reading of a tax incentive agreement for Project NAM, bringing 50 jobs.
Taxes & budgetJobs & economyDevelopment
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 approved the second reading of a Special Source Revenue Credit (SSRC) agreement for an economic development initiative known as Project NAM. This agreement provides infrastructure credits to support the establishment or expansion of facilities in the county, which is projected to result in a $12 million capital investment and the creation of at least 50 new jobs. The project is also certified as a textile mill site under the South Carolina Textile Communities Revitalization Act. Economic Development Director Jeff Burgess noted that the project is a significant win for the local economy. This vote moves the agreement forward, following a successful first reading in title-only, and signals the county's commitment to business recruitment and infrastructure development. The agreement remains on track for final approval as the county continues to prioritize job growth.
PASSED (Unanimous). This agreement supports an economic development project expected to bring 50 jobs to the county
Second Reading of 180-day moratorium ordinance:
Council approved a temporary moratorium on major subdivision approvals, with plans for future adjustments.
Yes 4 · No 1
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detailsless
How they voted
✓ 4 members voted yes✗ Sammie Tucker Jr.The official minutes recorded this vote as a count without listing each member by name.
What this was about
Council passed the second reading of an ordinance establishing a temporary 180-day moratorium on the acceptance and processing of major subdivision applications. The measure is designed to pause high-density development while the county updates its comprehensive plan and land use ordinances. Council members Derek Shoemake, Brant Tomlinson, Jimmy Jones, and Ben Connell voted in favor, while Sammie Tucker Jr. cast the dissenting vote. Discussion focused on the balance between managing rapid growth and protecting private property rights. Council members indicated they intend to refine the definition of minor subdivisions and potentially narrow the scope of the moratorium through amendments before the third and final reading. A public hearing is scheduled for July 8, 2025, with a final vote expected on July 22, 2025, allowing time for Council to reach a consensus on the final language.
PASSED For 4 · Against 1
Who said what
» Derek Shoemake Council Member: proposed a compromise to redefine small subdivisions to better protect small business owners ▶︎» Jimmy Jones Council Member: supported the moratorium but urged his colleagues to continue refining the policy ▶︎» Ben Connell Chairman: expressed skepticism about the impact on private property rights ▶︎
First Reading in Title Only of Ordinance for SC Department on Aging office space:
Council passed an ordinance to provide office space for the SC Department on Aging.
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 first reading in title-only for an ordinance authorizing a memorandum of agreement between the Kershaw County Library and the South Carolina Department on Aging. This agreement allows the state department to utilize dedicated office space within the Kershaw County Library facility. Council members commended Library Director Amy Shofield for her leadership and her efforts to enhance library services for the community. This initial reading establishes the legal framework for the partnership, which aims to provide seniors with better access to aging resources. As the ordinance progresses, the county will formalize the terms of the usage, ensuring that the library remains a central hub for community services. The measure passed unanimously, reflecting the Council's support for collaborative efforts that utilize county resources to assist local residents.
PASSED (Unanimous)
First Reading in Title Only of Ordinance for sale of 205 Sumter Highway:
Council approved the first reading of an ordinance to sell the county-owned EMS 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
Council approved the first reading in title-only to authorize the sale and conveyance of approximately 1.76 acres of real property at 205 Sumter Highway. The property currently serves as an EMS station, but the county has identified a more optimal location for these operations. The revenue generated from this sale will be reinvested into the renovation of a newly acquired property to better suit the county's emergency medical service needs. This sale is part of a broader strategy to optimize county-owned assets and modernize facilities. The ordinance will return for further review, where specifics regarding the contract of sale and appraisal values will be discussed before final approval. Council members support the move, noting that it will improve service delivery efficiency while also managing fiscal resources responsibly.
PASSED (Unanimous)
Resolution for Safe Streets grant application:
Council authorized a grant application for road safety improvements with a $200,000 local match.
RoadsGrants
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 a resolution authorizing the submission of a grant application to the National Safe Streets and Roads for All program. The county is seeking funding to develop a Safety Action Plan and conduct demonstration projects aimed at reducing fatalities and serious injuries on local roadways. The resolution commits the county to $200,000 in local matching funds, which leverages additional federal support that could total up to $1 million for safety enhancements. Councilman Sammie Tucker Jr., who introduced the resolution, noted that the funds could be used for critical road safety features such as center turn lanes. This application represents a significant move by the county to access state and federal infrastructure dollars after two decades of limited funding. The grant will support various roadway improvements across the county, particularly in high-traffic areas requiring immediate safety upgrades.
PASSED (Unanimous). This authorizes the submission of a grant application and commits $200,000 in local matching funds
Reappoint Nick Moore to Kershaw County Health Service District:
Council unanimously reappointed Nick Moore to the Kershaw County Health Service District board.
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 to reappoint Nick Moore to the Kershaw County Health Service District board. Councilman Sammie Tucker Jr., who brought the appointment forward, praised Moore for his diligent service, particularly noting his leadership within the board's finance committee. The Health Service District has been instrumental in managing health facilities such as the Beachwood site and ensuring that generated revenue is reinvested into the community for health-related purposes. Moore’s expertise was described as vital for the ongoing management of these projects and the district's long-term financial health. The appointment was supported by all Council members present, with Chairman Ben Connell and others echoing support for the board's recent performance. Moore will continue his term, ensuring continuity for the district’s efforts to expand and improve healthcare access for Kershaw County residents.
PASSED (Unanimous)
Routine housekeeping ▸ tap to showtap to hide
Council voted unanimously to approve the meeting agenda as amended, adopt minutes from the May 27, 2025, meeting, enter and exit executive session, and adjourn the meeting.
Discussed, no vote ▸ tap to showtap to hide
- Impact Fees: Council discussed the status of impact fee studies with staff. A consultant is scheduled to brief the Council further on June 17.
- Finance Committee Report: Council received an update on the budget, noting that a 3.5-mil increase and fee adjustments are included in the upcoming third reading.
- Airport Commission Appointment: The appointment for the District 5 seat was tabled until the June 17 meeting to allow for further review of applicants.
- Executive Session Item 15A: Council moved to defer this discussion to the June 17 meeting.
Public comment ▸ tap to showtap to hide
Residents addressed the Council regarding the proposed moratorium, expressing varying perspectives on the impact of large versus small subdivision growth. Other speakers provided comments on local zoning requests, airport advisory commission interest, and the implementation of impact fees for infrastructure funding.
Coming up ▸ tap to showtap to hide
- June 17, 2025: Third reading of the budget, impact fee presentation, and deferred Airport Commission appointment.
- July 8, 2025: Public hearing regarding the subdivision moratorium.
- July 22, 2025: Expected third reading of the subdivision moratorium.
This is an independent summary prepared from the county's official published minutes and the meeting's live stream, not an official county communication.