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 passed an ordinance prohibiting the sale of nitrous oxide and kratom to minors in the county.
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 addresses the rise of unregulated substances, often dubbed gas station drugs, by banning the sale of nitrous oxide and kratom to anyone under 18 years of age. It also imposes strict display and labeling requirements, mandating that such products be stored behind counters or in locked cases. The move comes following a presentation by the Alpha Center and the Opioid Abatement Coalition, which highlighted how these products are often marketed with deceptive health claims and packaged to appeal to youth. Violations result in fines up to $500 and potential jail time for retailers. Council members emphasized that this action is a proactive attempt to close legal loopholes, as these substances are constantly evolving, making state-level enforcement difficult. The county aims to establish guardrails that protect public health while allowing legitimate commercial use for adults.
PASSED (Unanimous)
Who said what
» Councilman Danny Kato: Stated that the presentation from the Alpha Center was eye-opening and that he was shocked by how easily accessible these products are in local stores.
» Vice-Chairman Russell Brazell: Criticized the marketing of these substances toward youth and thanked the Alpha Center for their support in keeping these products off the streets.
Votes at a glance ▸ tap to showtap to hide
Rezoning 16.68 acres at 1187 Black River Road (1st Reading):
Council approved the first reading of an ordinance to rezone 16.68 acres for residential development.
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 applicant, Josiefene S. Wade, requested to rezone a 16.68-acre parcel located at 1187 Black River Road from RD-1 (Rural Development) to MRD-1 (Rural Development). The property currently contains two single-wide manufactured homes. The Planning Commission unanimously recommended approval on December 8, 2025, noting that the applicant intends to place double-wide manufactured homes on the property for family members. Although staff noted this is a general use rezoning request - meaning all MRD-1 uses are permitted regardless of the applicant's specific intent - the proposed zoning remains consistent with surrounding land uses. The parcel is located in District 2 and utilizes individual septic tanks and City of Camden water. No public opposition was raised during the Planning Commission hearing, and Council moved it forward for second reading following unanimous approval.
PASSED (Unanimous)
Who said what
» Councilman Sammie Tucker, Jr.: Noted that he is familiar with the land and the surrounding area, and confirmed there were no objections to the request.
» Councilman Derek Shoemake: Observed that the rezoning does not significantly increase density and avoids making the land more intensive.
Amendment of regulations for public boat landings (1st Reading):
Council voted to adopt stricter regulations for public boat landings to curb littering and public intoxication.
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 amends Chapter 24 of the County Code to address growing issues at public boat landings, including overcrowding, litter, loitering, and public intoxication. The measure follows requests from Duke Energy, which owns several landings in the county, to help manage these facilities. The new regulations explicitly prohibit activities such as camping, open-flame grilling, discharging firearms, and playing loud music, while also limiting parking and prohibiting fishing from ramps and courtesy docks. Violations are classified as a misdemeanor, carrying penalties of up to $500 in fines or 30 days in jail. Council members expressed strong support for these measures, viewing them as necessary steps to protect county assets and ensure these areas remain family-friendly and accessible for legitimate recreational use.
PASSED (Unanimous)
Who said what
» Councilman Jimmy Jones: Applauded the initiative, noting that the county needs stronger enforcement to ensure people behave properly at these public facilities.
» Councilman Brant Tomlinson: Supported the measure, stating that he does not want to see these areas trashed and that the ordinance is good for the community.
Prohibiting the sale/distribution of nitrous oxide and kratom to minors (1st Reading):
Council passed an ordinance prohibiting the sale of nitrous oxide and kratom to minors in the county.
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 addresses the rise of unregulated substances, often dubbed gas station drugs, by banning the sale of nitrous oxide and kratom to anyone under 18 years of age. It also imposes strict display and labeling requirements, mandating that such products be stored behind counters or in locked cases. The move comes following a presentation by the Alpha Center and the Opioid Abatement Coalition, which highlighted how these products are often marketed with deceptive health claims and packaged to appeal to youth. Violations result in fines up to $500 and potential jail time for retailers. Council members emphasized that this action is a proactive attempt to close legal loopholes, as these substances are constantly evolving, making state-level enforcement difficult. The county aims to establish guardrails that protect public health while allowing legitimate commercial use for adults.
PASSED (Unanimous)
Who said what
» Councilman Danny Kato: Stated that the presentation from the Alpha Center was eye-opening and that he was shocked by how easily accessible these products are in local stores.
» Vice-Chairman Russell Brazell: Criticized the marketing of these substances toward youth and thanked the Alpha Center for their support in keeping these products off the streets.
Rezoning 4.18 acres at 209 Boulware Road (2nd Reading):
Council approved the second reading to rezone 4.18 acres to B-2 General Business district.
DevelopmentRoads
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 rezoning request concerns a 4.18-acre parcel located at 209 Boulware Road in Lugoff, owned by the Estate of Betty Sue Upchurch. The applicant sought to rezone the land from GD (General Development) to B-2 (General Business) to match the zoning of three adjacent parcels already owned by the estate. The Planning Commission recommended approval with a 4-0 vote in November 2025. Staff clarified that while this is a general use rezoning - meaning the property could technically be used for any B-2 permitted use - the intent is to align the parcel with existing commercial property. No development plans were submitted, but the change is considered consistent with the Urban Growth Area designation in the Comprehensive Plan. With the second reading passing, the property moves one step closer to final approval.
PASSED (Unanimous)
Who said what
» Councilman Derek Shoemake: Noted that the request is a downzoning and that the applicant had adequately answered all previous questions.
Regulations for golf cart operation on public roads (2nd Reading):
Council approved an ordinance to regulate the operation of golf carts on 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 provides a local framework for golf cart usage following the passage of South Carolina Act No. 64 in May 2025. It permits golf cart operation on county-maintained roads with speed limits of 35 mph or less, provided the operator follows state safety requirements. A key addition in this ordinance is the authorization for nighttime operation, provided the golf cart is equipped with functional headlights and taillights meeting DMV standards. Owners must also adhere to state laws regarding insurance, age requirements, and seat belt usage for children under 12. Council members noted that the measure provides a clear path for residents to use these vehicles safely within their neighborhoods. The ordinance passed its second reading unanimously, aligning county rules with broader state standards while specifically enabling the expanded hours of operation.
PASSED (Unanimous)
Who said what
» Councilman Brant Tomlinson: Explained that the ordinance expands upon state law by allowing golf cart operation after dark provided safety measures are met.
Reappointment of Robert Horton to Planning Commission (District 2):
Council unanimously reappointed Robert Horton to represent District 2 on the Planning Commission.
DevelopmentAppointments
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
Robert Horton was reappointed to the Kershaw County Planning Commission for another term. Councilman Sammie Tucker, Jr. praised Horton for his balanced, open-minded approach to planning and his dedication to the county's development goals. His reappointment ensures continuity on the commission.
PASSED (Unanimous)
Who said what
» Councilman Sammie Tucker, Jr.: Described Horton as a great representative who is reasonable, compromising, and open-minded.
County Council budget work session and retreat dates:
Council approved the schedule for upcoming budget workshops and a strategic planning retreat.
Taxes & budget
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 vote formalizes the calendar for the fiscal year 2026-2027 budget planning process, ensuring public transparency regarding when Council will conduct oversight and policy setting. The approved schedule includes Finance Committee budget workshops starting on February 12, 2026, and a dedicated budget retreat on February 13, 2026. These meetings are critical for the county to align its financial resources with its stated mission of delivering efficient, safe, and effective services to residents. During these sessions, Council members will review departmental funding requests, address infrastructure maintenance needs like the aging sewer system discussed in the finance update, and set the financial priorities for the coming year. The retreat specifically serves as a strategic planning session where Council members define their long-term vision and operational goals for the county. This structured approach allows for thorough debate on tax allocations and spending priorities before the budget is finalized. Residents are encouraged to monitor the county website for specific times and locations of these workshops to stay informed about how their tax dollars are being managed.
PASSED (Unanimous)
Who said what
» Chairman Ben Connell: These dates are self-explanatory, and while we all have work and life commitments, we will do our best to attend.
» Councilman Sammie Tucker, Jr.: The retreat is going to be done in-house this year, and it is very important to have your input because staff needs a map and a vision for where to go.
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.