The headline
Councilman Jimmy Jones announced that he will not seek re-election after 20 years of service on the Kershaw County Council, officially beginning his final year in office. Additionally, Council took significant proactive steps to curb the sale of unregulated "gas station drugs" by passing the first reading of an ordinance to restrict the sale and distribution of nitrous oxide and kratom to minors.
Prohibiting the sale/distribution of nitrous oxide and kratom to minors (1st Reading):
Council unanimously passed first reading prohibiting the sale and distribution of nitrous oxide and kratom to minors.
Unanimous · 7-0
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detailsless
How they voted - unanimous
✓ Ben Connell✓ Russell Brazell✓ Sammie Tucker Jr.✓ Derek Shoemake✓ Jimmy Jones✓ Brant Tomlinson✓ Danny CatoeWhat this was about
This ordinance prohibits the sale, distribution, or provision of nitrous oxide products and kratom products to minors under 18 years of age within unincorporated Kershaw County. The measure was drafted to address public health concerns over recreational inhalation of nitrous oxide canisters and psychoactive risks linked to kratom consumption among youth. Retailers must secure these products behind sales counters, in locked display cases, or in age-restricted sections to prevent direct access without employee assistance. The ordinance also requires products to carry clear labeling with ingredient lists, serving sizes, safety warnings, and explicit notices that sales to minors are prohibited. Retailers knowingly violating the age restriction face criminal misdemeanor charges with fines between $100 and $500, up to 30 days imprisonment, or both. Failure to store products properly carries civil penalties up to $1,000 for a first offense and $2,000 for subsequent offenses. Legitimate medical, dental, veterinary, culinary, and automotive uses of nitrous oxide remain exempt. Council unanimously approved the ordinance on first reading following an educational presentation from Alpha Behavioral Health Center representatives.
PASSED (Unanimous)
Who said what
» Danny Catoe Council Member: urged council members to support the ordinance based on the earlier presentation detailing public safety risks. ▶︎» Russell Brazell Vice-Chairman: strongly endorsed the ordinance to restrict minor access, describing unregulated gas station products as a major public safety problem. ▶︎» Ben Connell Chairman: asked legal counsel to verify that the proposed retail display and labeling rules align with state authority. ▶︎Votes at a glance ▸ tap to showtap to hide
Rezoning 16.68 acres at 1187 Black River Road (1st Reading):
Council unanimously approved first reading to rezone 16.68 acres on Black River Road to allow double-wide manufactured homes.
DevelopmentRoads
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 ordinance rezones a 16.68-acre parcel (TMS# 329-00-00-086) located at 1187 Black River Road in Camden from RD-1 (Rural Development District) to MRD-1 (Rural Development District). Property owner Josiefene S. Wade requested the change to replace an existing single-wide manufactured home with a double-wide unit and potentially place additional double-wides for immediate family members in the future. On December 8, 2025, the Kershaw County Planning Commission held a public hearing and unanimously voted 5-0 to recommend approval. The site features approximately 753 feet of road frontage along Black River Road and receives water service from the City of Camden alongside an individual septic system. The zoning classification change retains the same residential density limits of one unit per gross acre while permitting double-wide manufactured homes. County Council unanimously approved the measure on first reading on January 13, 2026. The ordinance will proceed to second reading, tentatively scheduled for January 27, 2026, before moving to final consideration.
PASSED (Unanimous)
Who said what
» Sammie Tucker Jr. Council Member: supported the rezoning because it helps family members locate homes on property adjacent to similar zoning without objection. ▶︎» Derek Shoemake Council Member: favored the proposal because it would not increase residential density or significantly expand non-residential land uses. ▶︎» Jimmy Jones Council Member: welcomed the rezoning request, describing the measure as a positive form of land-use deregulation for property owners. ▶︎
Amendment of regulations for public boat landings (1st Reading):
Council approved first reading of regulations restricting activities and establishing penalties for violations at public boat landings.
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 ordinance amends Chapter 24 of the Kershaw County Code of Ordinances to establish restated restrictions, prohibited activities, and parking regulations for all public boat landings in Kershaw County, including those owned by Duke Energy. Council initiated the updates following requests from Duke Energy and county officials to curb overcrowding, loitering, public intoxication, littering, open-flame grilling, camping, and unauthorized commercial operations. Prohibited conduct includes swimming within 200 yards of ramps or docks, fishing from launch areas, discharging firearms, operating off-road vehicles, and playing loud music. Parking restrictions prohibit leaving vehicles unattended over 24 consecutive hours or parking non-boat trailers in designated trailer spaces. Enforcement will be carried out by the Kershaw County Sheriff's Office and Code Enforcement through citations or traffic tickets. Violations carry misdemeanor penalties punishable by fines up to $500, imprisonment up to 30 days, or both, with each day representing a separate offense. County Council passed the ordinance unanimously on first reading, advancing it toward second reading.
PASSED (Unanimous)
Who said what
» Gerald Blanchard Presenter: explained that Duke Energy asked the county to help address inappropriate uses occurring at public boat ramps. ▶︎» Ben Connell Chairman: noted that the regulations aim to address disruptive behavior seen at local boat landings and clean up public areas. ▶︎» Derek Shoemake Council Member: confirmed that the proposed boat landing regulations would not require closing or locking public park access. ▶︎
Prohibiting the sale/distribution of nitrous oxide and kratom to minors (1st Reading):
Council unanimously passed first reading prohibiting the sale and distribution of nitrous oxide and kratom to minors.
Unanimous · 7-0
▸
detailsless
How they voted - unanimous
✓ Ben Connell✓ Russell Brazell✓ Sammie Tucker Jr.✓ Derek Shoemake✓ Jimmy Jones✓ Brant Tomlinson✓ Danny CatoeWhat this was about
This ordinance prohibits the sale, distribution, or provision of nitrous oxide products and kratom products to minors under 18 years of age within unincorporated Kershaw County. The measure was drafted to address public health concerns over recreational inhalation of nitrous oxide canisters and psychoactive risks linked to kratom consumption among youth. Retailers must secure these products behind sales counters, in locked display cases, or in age-restricted sections to prevent direct access without employee assistance. The ordinance also requires products to carry clear labeling with ingredient lists, serving sizes, safety warnings, and explicit notices that sales to minors are prohibited. Retailers knowingly violating the age restriction face criminal misdemeanor charges with fines between $100 and $500, up to 30 days imprisonment, or both. Failure to store products properly carries civil penalties up to $1,000 for a first offense and $2,000 for subsequent offenses. Legitimate medical, dental, veterinary, culinary, and automotive uses of nitrous oxide remain exempt. Council unanimously approved the ordinance on first reading following an educational presentation from Alpha Behavioral Health Center representatives.
PASSED (Unanimous)
Who said what
» Danny Catoe Council Member: urged council members to support the ordinance based on the earlier presentation detailing public safety risks. ▶︎» Russell Brazell Vice-Chairman: strongly endorsed the ordinance to restrict minor access, describing unregulated gas station products as a major public safety problem. ▶︎» Ben Connell Chairman: asked legal counsel to verify that the proposed retail display and labeling rules align with state authority. ▶︎
Rezoning 4.18 acres at 209 Boulware Road (2nd Reading):
Council unanimously passed second reading rezoning 4.18 acres on Boulware Road to General Business commercial classification.
DevelopmentRoads
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 ordinance amends the official zoning map to rezone a 4.18-acre parcel (TMS# 296-00-00-057) located at 209 Boulware Road in Lugoff from GD (General Development District) to B-2 (General Business District). The property owner, the Estate of Betty Sue Upchurch, submitted the map amendment request to align the parcel's zoning classification with three adjacent parcels under the same ownership. On November 10, 2025, the Kershaw County Planning Commission held a public hearing and voted 4-0 to recommend approval. The site currently contains two metal structures and a concrete pad with approximately 261 feet of road frontage along Boulware Road. The surrounding land includes single-family residences, commercial operations such as Powers Funeral Home, and vacant tracts. County sewer service is provided by Kershaw County and water is supplied by the Lugoff-Elgin Water Authority. Council passed the ordinance unanimously on second reading without further debate, following initial approval on December 9, 2025. Final adoption will occur upon successful passage of third reading at an upcoming meeting.
PASSED (Unanimous)
Regulations for golf cart operation on public roads (2nd Reading):
Council approved second reading allowing properly equipped golf carts to operate at night on low-speed public roads.
RoadsParks & rec
Unanimous · 7-0
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detailsless
How they voted - unanimous
✓ Ben Connell✓ Russell Brazell✓ Sammie Tucker Jr.✓ Derek Shoemake✓ Jimmy Jones✓ Brant Tomlinson✓ Danny CatoeWhat this was about
This ordinance establishes local regulations governing the operation of golf carts on public highways in unincorporated Kershaw County pursuant to South Carolina Code Section 56-2-90. Enacted following state legislation passed in May 2025, the local ordinance explicitly permits golf carts to operate at all hours, day and night, provided they are equipped with working headlights and taillights. Operation remains restricted to secondary highways and public roads with posted speed limits of 35 miles per hour or less. Drivers must hold a valid driver's license, maintain liability insurance, register the golf cart with the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles, and keep the cart within four miles of the registered address. Additionally, state law requires passengers under 12 years of age to wear safety belts when golf carts travel on public streets. Council unanimously approved the ordinance on second reading without changes, following its initial approval on December 9, 2025. The ordinance will take full effect upon passing third reading.
PASSED (Unanimous)
Reappointment of Robert Horton to Planning Commission (District 2):
Council unanimously reappointed Robert Horton to represent District 2 on the Kershaw County Planning Commission.
DevelopmentAppointments
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
County Council unanimously approved the reappointment of Robert Horton to the Kershaw County Planning Commission representing District 2. Nominated by Councilman Sammie Tucker Jr., Horton was commended for his fair-minded approach, dedication to community planning, and ongoing contributions to the county's Smart Growth Committee. The Planning Commission reviews rezoning requests, subdivision developments, and land-use regulations before forwarding recommendations to County Council.
PASSED (Unanimous)
Who said what
» Sammie Tucker Jr. Council Member: praised Robert Horton as a reasonable and open-minded representative for District 2 and the county. ▶︎» Derek Shoemake Council Member: commended Robert Horton for his contributions to both the Planning Commission and the Smart Growth Committee. ▶︎» Russell Brazell Vice-Chairman: expressed gratitude for Robert Horton's willingness to continue serving Kershaw County on the Planning Commission. ▶︎
County Council budget work session and retreat dates:
Council approved the schedule for upcoming budget workshops and the annual County Council budget retreat.
Taxes & budget
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
County Council voted unanimously to adopt the formal schedule for upcoming budget work sessions, Finance Committee workshops, and the annual Council budget retreat. The approved schedule includes Finance Committee budget workshops beginning February 12, 2026, and the official Council Budget Retreat set for February 13, 2026. The retreat provides council members and county staff an opportunity to align strategic priorities, establish fiscal policy goals, and guide administrative staff in crafting the upcoming fiscal year budget.
PASSED (Unanimous)
Discussed, no vote ▸ tap to showtap to hide
- Kershaw Environmental Collaborative: Council adopted a proclamation establishing a pilot partnership with the South Carolina Department of Environmental Services (DES) to improve environmental stewardship and watershed protection.
- Lynches River Log Jam Resolution: Council adopted a resolution commending the SCDNR, Global Eco Adventures, the Office of Resilience, and private construction partners for the successful removal of a major four-year-old log jam.
- Pecan Orchard Update: Staff confirmed that permitting for phase one is underway, with utility meetings scheduled for early February and a target for groundbreaking in June 2026.
- Vincent Road Public Works: Council reviewed maintenance updates, including recent ditching and pipe replacement, and discussed ongoing efforts to improve road accessibility.
- Pole Barn Engineering Permit: Council discussed a proposal to offer a standardized, pre-engineered pole barn permit process to reduce costs and complexity for residents, with further review pending.
- Finance Committee Update: Council discussed ongoing efforts to address aging sewer lines and future stormwater management initiatives.
Public comment ▸ tap to showtap to hide
The public comment period concluded with no speakers signed up to address the Council.
Coming up ▸ tap to showtap to hide
- Water Quality/208 Meeting: January 15, 2026.
- Budget Retreat: February 13, 2026.
- Finance Committee Budget Workshops: Various dates starting February 12, 2026.
independent summary, generated from the county's public video, not an official county communication.