How they voted - unanimous

What this was about

This ordinance rezones a 0.50-acre parcel at 1306 Skyview Drive from R-10 (Medium Density Residential) to B-2 (General Business). The property is owned by the Second Chance Fellowship church, which sought the change to better align with the zoning of its adjacent church facilities. The applicant noted that the B-2 classification is necessary to expand community outreach, continue homeless services in partnership with the United Way, and ensure compliance with insurance and local regulations. The Planning Commission unanimously recommended approval during its September 11, 2025 hearing. While the church has specific intended uses, the rezoning is a general use change, meaning the property could be used for any permitted B-2 business activity under the county zoning code. The measure passed its first and second readings in September and October, and the final approval on November 18 allows the zoning map to be formally updated.

Who said what

» Councilman Danny Catoe: The pastor has explained his intent for the property, and the church continues to do amazing things for the community.

» Councilman Brant Tomlinson: I appreciate my colleagues supporting this as it will provide a place of worship and vital services for the community.

How they voted - unanimous

What this was about

County Council authorized a $140,000 contract with State Tree Service Inc. of Sumter to perform grinding services for approximately 30,000 cubic yards of yard waste at the county landfill. This annual maintenance is required to comply with state regulatory standards for a Class B landfill and helps maximize storage capacity by reducing debris into wood chips. Four bids were submitted for the project, with State Tree Service providing the lowest quote. The project was budgeted for $180,000, meaning the award comes in $40,000 under budget. Council members expressed interest in future opportunities to market the resulting wood chips as a commodity, such as for boiler fuel or plastic decking components, rather than simply composting the waste on-site. The administrator noted that the higher costs compared to past years are due to market fluctuations and rising equipment mobilization expenses.

Who said what

» Administrator Danny Templar: This is an annual service required to maintain state standards and turn debris into chips to create capacity.

» Councilman Russell Brazell: I would like to explore options to turn this waste into a commodity that could potentially offset costs in the future.

How they voted - unanimous

What this was about

Council voted to rename the boat ramp at Veteran Park as the 'Medal of Honor Boat Ramp' to honor the four Kershaw County residents who have received the nation's highest military decoration. The recipients honored are Sergeant Richard H. Hilton, Corporal John C. Vilipigu, Corporal Donald L. Trudel, and Sergeant Major Thomas Patrick Payne. The naming coincides with the facility's ribbon-cutting ceremony. Council members supported the move as a way to acknowledge the county's significant military history and the bravery of those who have served. Councilman Jimmy Jones noted that while he had been critical of the park project's past financial decisions, he fully supported this tribute due to the prestige and significance of the Medal of Honor.

Who said what

» Chairman Ben Connell: This will ensure that each time someone uses the ramp, they are prompted to learn about those who exhibited such bravery.

» Councilman Jimmy Jones: Renaming this is a huge gesture, and we must ensure the site is maintained at a level worthy of that name.

How they voted - unanimous

What this was about

Council unanimously approved the reappointment of Kayci Brazell to the Kershaw County Library Board representing District 5. Councilman Brant Tomlinson sponsored the reappointment, commending Brazell for her dedicated service during her previous term. Fellow council members echoed his support, noting her professionalism and commitment to the local library system.

How they voted - unanimous

What this was about

Jac Carrington was reappointed to the Recreation Advisory Commission representing District 5. Councilman Brant Tomlinson, who sponsored the reappointment, praised Carrington’s passion for local youth and his active participation in maintaining facilities, such as personally helping with upkeep at the Larry Doby fields. Carrington's reappointment was approved by a unanimous vote.

Who said what

» Councilman Brant Tomlinson: Jac has been a driving force in securing funding for our recreation department and works tirelessly for our youth.

How they voted - unanimous

What this was about

Council unanimously reappointed Kevin Culp to the Recreation Advisory Commission as an at-large member. Culp was recognized by the council for his advocacy regarding facility maintenance and his involvement in current county recreational projects. Councilman Russell Brazell specifically praised Culp for his willingness to serve as a vocal advocate for the community throughout the development of new park facilities.

Who said what

» Councilman Russell Brazell: I thank Kevin for being a voice for this community during times when others were silent.

How they voted - unanimous

What this was about

Allan Judy was reappointed to represent District 4 on the Recreation Advisory Commission. Sponsor Councilman Jimmy Jones noted Judy’s long history of working with children in youth sports and his consistent attendance and engagement at commission meetings. Council members expressed broad support for Judy’s pragmatic and fiscally conservative approach to recreational development.

Who said what

» Councilman Russell Brazell: Mr. Judy is a conservative individual who saw the value in our recreation projects, which speaks volumes to me.

How they voted - unanimous

What this was about

Council voted to refer a draft ordinance to the Planning Commission that aims to regulate retail establishments selling hemp-derived and synthetic cannabinoid products. The proposed text amendment would create 'Section 3.3.29' of the county’s Unified Code of Zoning and Land Development Regulations, establishing these retail stores as a conditional use in specific zoning districts. This classification would subject such businesses to location, separation, and operational restrictions. Councilman Russell Brazell explained that the measure is intended to address loopholes that currently allow potent THC products - sometimes disguised as seltzers or gummies - to be sold to minors in convenience stores without adequate age verification or zoning oversight. The Planning Commission is now tasked with reviewing the proposal and providing a recommendation back to the County Council for final adoption.

Who said what

» Councilman Russell Brazell: This ordinance will save families and protect children from potent products that are currently being sold with no age limits.

How they voted - unanimous

What this was about

Council approved a motion to authorize the County Administrator to execute a consent order with the South Carolina Department of Environmental Services (SCDES) regarding the Kershaw County Wastewater Treatment Plant. This legal measure is intended to resolve regulatory issues and establish a path forward for facility compliance. The details of the order were finalized during the meeting's executive session. Council members voiced their support, noting that the agreement ensures the plant remains on the right path and is being managed effectively by county staff to meet state standards.

Who said what

» Councilman Danny Catoe: This is something that will put us on the right path to ensure everything is going smoothly.