The headline
Council moved to regulate local sales of synthetic cannabinoid products and established new guidelines for golf cart operation. These ordinances were passed on ordinance can become law; mostly procedural." style="border-bottom:1px dotted #9db9dd;cursor:help;text-decoration:none;">first reading as the county looks to address emerging public safety and zoning concerns.
Ordinance regarding Hemp-Derived or Synthetic Cannabinoid Products (1st Reading):
Council moved to regulate the sale and operation of retail stores selling synthetic cannabinoid products.
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 ordinance introduces new regulations into the Kershaw County Unified Code of Zoning and Land Development by adding Section 3:3.29. The measure aims to establish synthetic cannabinoid and hemp-derived product retailers as a conditional use, rather than a permitted use, across specific zoning districts. The intent is to implement stricter oversight regarding the location, separation distance between similar businesses, and general operational restrictions to address public safety concerns. This vote represents the first of two required readings, signaling the beginning of a formal legislative process to curb potential issues surrounding these retail shops. During the public comment period, Pastor Steve Lee and Leon Prosser of the Alpha Center Board of Directors addressed the Council regarding this topic. The proposal reflects the county's effort to balance business development with community health and safety standards, and it will return for a second reading in early 2026.
PASSED For 7 · Against 0
Who said what
» Pastor Steve Lee: Addressed the Council regarding the new regulatory ordinance for hemp-derived and synthetic cannabinoid products.
» Leon Prosser: Representing the Alpha Center Board of Directors, he provided comments to the Council regarding the cannabinoid ordinance.
Votes at a glance ▸ tap to showtap to hide
Adoption of Agenda, Proclamations, Minutes Approval, and Executive Session (Multiple):
Council conducted routine organizational business, including approving meeting agendas, minutes, and honoring a local church.
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 collection of routine administrative items serves as the procedural foundation for the County Council's operations. The Council unanimously adopted the agenda for the December 9, 2025, meeting and approved the minutes from the November 18, 2025, regular meeting. Additionally, the Council issued a proclamation recognizing Mt. Moriah Baptist Church for its upcoming 160th anniversary, celebrating the institution's longstanding role in the Camden community. The meeting also included an executive session held under state code to receive legal briefings regarding confidential matters protected by attorney-client privilege. These procedural steps are essential for maintaining the official record and ensuring compliance with the South Carolina Freedom of Information Act. By handling these matters at the beginning and end of the meeting, the Council keeps its operations transparent and aligned with the established rules for public governance.
PASSED (Unanimous)
Ordinance regarding Hemp-Derived or Synthetic Cannabinoid Products (1st Reading):
Council moved to regulate the sale and operation of retail stores selling synthetic cannabinoid products.
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 ordinance introduces new regulations into the Kershaw County Unified Code of Zoning and Land Development by adding Section 3:3.29. The measure aims to establish synthetic cannabinoid and hemp-derived product retailers as a conditional use, rather than a permitted use, across specific zoning districts. The intent is to implement stricter oversight regarding the location, separation distance between similar businesses, and general operational restrictions to address public safety concerns. This vote represents the first of two required readings, signaling the beginning of a formal legislative process to curb potential issues surrounding these retail shops. During the public comment period, Pastor Steve Lee and Leon Prosser of the Alpha Center Board of Directors addressed the Council regarding this topic. The proposal reflects the county's effort to balance business development with community health and safety standards, and it will return for a second reading in early 2026.
PASSED For 7 · Against 0
Who said what
» Pastor Steve Lee: Addressed the Council regarding the new regulatory ordinance for hemp-derived and synthetic cannabinoid products.
» Leon Prosser: Representing the Alpha Center Board of Directors, he provided comments to the Council regarding the cannabinoid ordinance.
Rezoning 4.18 acres at 209 Boulware Road from GD to B-2 (1st Reading):
Council approved the first reading to rezone a four-acre parcel in Lugoff for general business use.
DevelopmentRoads
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 approve the first reading of an ordinance to amend the official county zoning map for a 4.18-acre property located at 209 Boulware Road in Lugoff. The parcel, identified by tax map sheet number 296-00-00-057, is currently zoned as a General Development (GD) district and will transition to a B-2 General Business District. This zoning change typically allows for a wider range of commercial and retail activities, supporting the county's ongoing development goals for the Lugoff area. Because this is a land-use modification, it follows a standard legislative process requiring two successful readings by the Council before the map is officially updated. No immediate project was cited for the land, but the change provides the property owner with greater flexibility for potential future development. The unanimous 7-0 vote indicates strong consensus among council members regarding this specific land-use transition.
PASSED For 7 · Against 0
Ordinance to establish regulations for golf carts (1st Reading):
New rules were proposed to align county golf cart operations with state legal requirements.
Parks & rec
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 ordinance, sponsored by Councilmen Jimmy Jones and Brant Tomlinson, establishes a formal framework for operating golf carts on public streets within Kershaw County, pursuant to Section 56-2-90 of the South Carolina Code of Laws. The proposed rules require that operators be at least 16 years old with a valid driver's license and mandate that carts be insured through the DMV. Additionally, the ordinance restricts operation to secondary streets with speed limits of 35 mph or less, limits travel to a 4-mile radius from the registered address, and prohibits nighttime operation. Children under 12 are specifically required to wear seat belts when the vehicle is in motion on public roadways. This legislation is designed to ensure safety as the popularity of golf cart transportation grows in residential areas. The Council passed the first reading unanimously and will revisit the measure for a final vote at a future meeting.
PASSED For 7 · Against 0
Resolution approving 2026 Council meeting dates (Final):
Council finalized the schedule for its regular monthly meetings throughout the 2026 calendar year.
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 resolution formally adopts the calendar for all regular Kershaw County Council meetings scheduled for 2026. Under the approved schedule, the Council will continue to meet on the second and fourth Tuesday of every month at 6:00 p.m. in the County Council Chambers at the Government Center in Camden. This official notice ensures that the public remains informed of when the Council will convene to conduct business, fulfill transparency requirements, and facilitate participation. The schedule begins on January 13, 2026, and spans through December 22, 2026. The adoption of this resolution also allows the Council to plan for potential work sessions, particularly early in the year, to address county priorities. Setting these dates in advance is a routine annual requirement that helps staff and residents coordinate with the local government’s legislative cycle.
PASSED For 7 · Against 0
Appointment to Planning Commission - District 5 (Action):
Christopher Stryffeler was appointed to represent District 5 on the Kershaw County Planning Commission.
DevelopmentAppointments
Yes 5 · No 0
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How they voted - unanimous
✓ Ben Connell✓ Russell Brazell✓ Derek Shoemake✓ Sammie Tucker Jr.✓ Danny CatoeWhat this was about
The Council appointed Christopher Stryffeler to serve on the Kershaw County Planning Commission as the representative for District 5. The Planning Commission plays a critical role in the community by reviewing zoning amendments, land-use plans, and development proposals before they are presented to the Council for final action. By filling this vacancy, the Council ensures that District 5 has a direct voice in the county's long-term growth and infrastructure strategies. This appointment was approved by a 5-0 vote during the meeting. Engaging residents in these commission roles is central to the county's mission of responsible stewardship and balanced growth.
PASSED For 5 · Against 0
Appointment to Clean Community Commission (Action):
Four new members were appointed to the Clean Community Commission to assist with local environmental efforts.
Appointments
Yes 5 · No 0
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How they voted - unanimous
✓ Ben Connell✓ Russell Brazell✓ Sammie Tucker Jr.✓ Brant Tomlinson✓ Danny CatoeWhat this was about
The Council appointed a slate of four new members to the Kershaw County Clean Community Commission: Conor Rom, Virginia Long, Danielle Preussner, and Jennifer Branham, representing the Town of Elgin. These appointments come as a result of recruitment efforts led by Jill Wolfe to strengthen the commission's work in beautification and local environmental oversight. The Clean Community Commission is vital for maintaining the county's aesthetic and environmental standards, and the addition of these members is expected to help revitalize the group's outreach programs. Councilman Derek Shoemake specifically recognized the effort put into the recruitment process during the vote, which passed 5-0. These volunteers are tasked with helping keep Kershaw County clean and promoting sustainable habits among residents and businesses throughout the area.
PASSED For 5 · Against 0
Who said what
» Councilman Derek Shoemake: Thanked Mrs. Jill Wolfe for her significant efforts in recruiting the new commission members.
Discussed, no vote ▸ tap to showtap to hide
Council received the annual audit presentation for fiscal year 2024/2025 and a presentation from the South Carolina Department of Environmental Services regarding stormwater management and MS4 permitting obligations. Members also held a discussion on the status of the Pecan Orchard project and reviewed a $105,000 donation earmarked for new pickleball courts at the West Wateree Complex.
Public comment ▸ tap to showtap to hide
Pastor Steve Lee addressed the Council regarding the ordinance regulating hemp-derived and synthetic cannabinoid products. Leon Prosser, representing the Alpha Center Board of Directors, also provided comments to the Council.
Coming up ▸ tap to showtap to hide
The next regular meeting of the Kershaw County Council is scheduled for January 13, 2026. Council requested a follow-up presentation in January regarding how the South Carolina Department of Environmental Services can further assist the county with stormwater infrastructure.
This is an independent summary prepared from the county's official published minutes, not an official county communication.