The headline
Pecan Orchard drainage repairs move forward. Following an executive session, the Council authorized the County Administrator to proceed with significant heavy maintenance and drainage improvements within the Pecan Orchard subdivision. The Council also voted to pursue the purchase of a vacant lot in the subdivision to facilitate the necessary stormwater infrastructure, with the total project costs capped at $350,000.
Purchase of vacant lot in Pecan Orchard:
Council authorized the purchase of a vacant lot in Pecan Orchard to facilitate stormwater infrastructure.
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
The Council formally authorized the County Administrator and legal staff to pursue the purchase of a vacant lot within the Pecan Orchard subdivision. This purchase, capped at fair market value, is critical to the success of the broader stormwater drainage plan authorized earlier in the meeting. Engineers identified the parcel as the necessary site for infrastructure that will manage water runoff caused by county roads in the area. By acquiring this lot, the county can resolve technical hurdles that had previously stalled the project.
PASSED (Unanimous)
Who said what
» Sammie Tucker, Jr., Councilman: This is part of the hold up too, because without this, it makes the project impossible to do.
Votes at a glance ▸ tap to showtap to hide
Agenda Adoption:
Council voted to approve the meeting agenda as presented.
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
The meeting agenda for March 24, 2026, was officially adopted by the Kershaw County Council. This is a routine administrative procedure that sets the scope of the meeting. The motion was made by Councilman Sammie Tucker, Jr. and seconded by Councilman Danny Catoe. The adoption passed with a unanimous vote from all members present. Councilman Brant Tomlinson was absent from the meeting.
PASSED (Unanimous)
Minutes Approval (March 24, 2026 Regular Meeting):
Council approved the official minutes from the March 24, 2026, regular meeting.
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
The Council formally approved the minutes for the March 24, 2026, regular meeting. This action ensures the accuracy of the official public record regarding the proceedings, discussions, and votes taken during that session. Councilman Danny Catoe moved for the approval, which was seconded by Councilman Sammie Tucker, Jr., and passed unanimously.
PASSED (Unanimous)
First Reading: Ordinance to rezone 41 Youngs Bend Road from RD-2 to GD:
Council approved the first reading of an ordinance to rezone property at 41 Youngs Bend Road.
DevelopmentRoads
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 initiates the rezoning of a 32.17-acre portion of a parcel located at 41 Youngs Bend Road from Rural Development District (RD-2) to General Development District (GD). During the discussion, Councilman Derek Shoemake explained that this rezoning is intended to provide a buffer for an adjacent business that has been looking to expand its footprint. The Planning Commission reviewed the proposal and recommended the change unanimously. As this was only the first reading, the measure will return to the Council for future readings before becoming final law. The Council expressed support for the expansion, noting that surrounding properties are already zoned for General Development, which prevents concerns regarding spot zoning.
PASSED (Unanimous)
Who said what
» Derek Shoemake, Councilman: This is a chance for a very good business that has been doing great things for Kershaw County to have a buffer into which it can expand in the future.
» Sammie Tucker, Jr., Councilman: I think this is a great partner and economic development opportunity for the citizens of Kershaw County.
First Reading: Ordinance to amend ZLDR Section 3:3 Conditional Uses, Rural Country Club Requirements:
Council began the process of amending zoning regulations concerning Rural Country Club requirements.
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 first reading addresses a text amendment to the Kershaw County Unified Code of Zoning and Land Development Regulations (ZLDR) regarding Rural Country Club conditional uses. The amendment specifically modifies the definitions and regulations for these venues, including changes to guest lodge bedroom counts and lot size requirements. The purpose is to refine the criteria under which such facilities can operate in rural districts, ensuring they remain compatible with the surrounding character. This ordinance is part of a broader effort to facilitate high-end economic development and tourism while maintaining strict land-use protections. The amendment will undergo further scrutiny in subsequent readings.
PASSED (Unanimous)
Tucker Amendment to ZLDR Ordinance:
Council voted to adopt specific amendments to the ZLDR ordinance regarding rural country clubs.
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
Councilman Sammie Tucker, Jr. introduced an amendment to the ZLDR ordinance to refine the definitions and regulations for Rural Country Golf Clubs. This amendment was developed in coordination with staff and the applicant to address concerns raised by the Planning Commission. It clarifies that these regulations apply specifically to golf-related venues and adds stricter standards for guest lodging and land use to ensure development does not negatively impact agricultural or rural areas. The amendment received unanimous support from the Council members.
PASSED (Unanimous)
Who said what
» Stephen Smoak, Applicant Representative: My client is in the process of making a significant investment in multiple golf courses in Kershaw County, and this is a request that is in furtherance of that project.
» John DeBose, County Staff: Planning commission's concerns were not about a golf course, it was this idea that the guest lodging component could perhaps exist on its own; the amendments Mr. Smoke prepared are responsive to that concern.
Amended ZLDR Ordinance (Section 3:3):
Council approved the first reading of the ZLDR ordinance as amended by Councilman Tucker.
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
Following the adoption of the Tucker Amendment, the Council voted to approve the underlying ZLDR ordinance amendment as amended. This ordinance updates Section 3:3 of the zoning code to create specific, regulated pathways for rural golf resort development. The requirements include mandatory acreage minimums, shielding of outdoor lighting to protect the night sky, and strict end-times for events to manage noise. By narrowing the scope to focus specifically on golf-centric facilities rather than broad event venues, the Council aims to encourage specialized tourism while protecting local rural character.
PASSED (Unanimous)
Who said what
» Derek Shoemake, Councilman: This paves the way for some really great economic development and tourism opportunities for Kershaw County.
First Reading: Ordinance to amend Chapter 24 regarding Solicitation and Panhandling:
Council approved the first reading of an ordinance to regulate solicitation and panhandling.
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
The Council moved to amend Chapter 24 of the county code to add regulations governing solicitation and panhandling in unincorporated areas. Modeled after successful legislation recently enacted by the City of Camden, this ordinance is designed to improve public safety and traffic flow. It prohibits aggressive behavior, such as intimidation, touching people without consent, or obstructing traffic at intersections. Supporters noted that panhandling has become a safety concern, particularly at busy traffic junctions. The Council intends to ensure that these new rules do not conflict with existing permitting systems for legitimate 501(c)(3) fundraising activities, and staff will provide additional clarification on those protections before the second reading.
PASSED (Unanimous)
Who said what
» Derek Shoemake, Councilman: You cannot aggressively beg, meaning begging with the intent to intimidate another; you cannot obstruct traffic, you cannot touch the person you're talking to without their consent.
» Jimmy Jones, Councilman: I'm happy to see an ordinance like this that addresses it and I don't have a problem with people panhandling, I just don't want it in our neck of the woods.
Appointments to Accommodations Tax Advisory Commission:
Council appointed a slate of four new members to the Accommodations Tax Advisory Commission.
Taxes & budgetAppointments
Yes 6 · No 0
▸
detailsless
How they voted - unanimous
✓ Ben Connell✓ Sammie Tucker Jr.✓ Derek Shoemake✓ Jimmy Jones✓ Danny Catoe✓ Russell BrazellWhat this was about
The Council appointed Dee Patel, Shane Duncan, Kayci Brazell, and Thomas Mullikin, Jr. to the Accommodations Tax Advisory Commission. The appointments were presented as a slate, with staggered terms to ensure continuity in leadership: terms for Districts 1, 2, and 3 expire in 2029, while terms for Districts 4, 5, and 6 expire in 2027. Vice Chairman Russell Brazell recused himself from the vote to avoid a conflict of interest, as a family member was among the appointees. The Commission plays a vital role in advising the Council on the allocation of hospitality and accommodations tax funds.
PASSED For 6 · Against 0 (Vice Chairman R. Brazell abstained)
Who said what
» Sammie Tucker, Jr., Councilman: I want to say thanks to all of the candidates who put their names up to be appointed.
Appointment to Recreation Advisory Commission (Matt Downey):
Council appointed Matt Downey to fill a vacancy on the Recreation Advisory Commission.
Parks & recAppointments
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
Matt Downey was appointed to the Recreation Advisory Commission to replace the seat formerly held by Shane Kirkley. His term runs from March 24, 2026, through March 24, 2029. Council members highlighted Mr. Downey's prior involvement with local youth sports coaching as a key reason for his appointment, noting the importance of having dedicated members to oversee the county's growing recreation program.
PASSED (Unanimous)
Who said what
» Sammie Tucker, Jr., Councilman: I think this is a great individual who's already doing a lot of amazing things in the coaching arena in our Rec Department.
Heavy maintenance authorization for Pecan Orchard:
Council authorized Public Works to conduct extensive drainage and road maintenance in the Pecan Orchard subdivision.
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
Following an executive session, the Council authorized the County Administrator to direct the Public Works Department to begin heavy drainage maintenance in the Pecan Orchard neighborhood. This project includes road grading, ditching, driveway repairs, pipe replacements, and upsizing pipes to 18 inches. Additionally, the project will establish an upper outfall and involve external contracting for the 419 Berry Place cross-pipe project, which includes a 36-inch closed system. This initiative comes after significant resident frustration regarding flooding, and while Council members acknowledged the work would not solve all inherent hydrological issues, they emphasized it was a necessary step toward mitigation. The project is part of a previously approved $350,000 budget allocation.
PASSED (Unanimous)
Who said what
» Sammie Tucker, Jr., Councilman: The county cannot fix the inherent hydrological conditions of the neighborhood, which the county has no control or responsibility for.
» Russell Brazell, Vice Chairman: I'm going to support it, and I'm really hopeful that the staff is going to follow through and do this right.
Purchase of vacant lot in Pecan Orchard:
Council authorized the purchase of a vacant lot in Pecan Orchard to facilitate stormwater infrastructure.
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
The Council formally authorized the County Administrator and legal staff to pursue the purchase of a vacant lot within the Pecan Orchard subdivision. This purchase, capped at fair market value, is critical to the success of the broader stormwater drainage plan authorized earlier in the meeting. Engineers identified the parcel as the necessary site for infrastructure that will manage water runoff caused by county roads in the area. By acquiring this lot, the county can resolve technical hurdles that had previously stalled the project.
PASSED (Unanimous)
Who said what
» Sammie Tucker, Jr., Councilman: This is part of the hold up too, because without this, it makes the project impossible to do.
Executive Session entry and exit:
Council entered and exited a closed session to discuss legal matters regarding Pecan Orchard.
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
The Council entered into executive session to receive a legal briefing protected by attorney-client privilege, specifically concerning the Pecan Orchard drainage project. This closed session allowed for candid discussions regarding contractual obligations and pending actions before the Council reconvened to take public votes on maintenance and property acquisition. All members present voted in favor of entering and exiting the session.
PASSED (Unanimous)
Adjournment:
Unanimous · 7-0
▸
detailsless
How they voted - unanimous
✓ Ben Connell✓ Russell Brazell✓ Sammie Tucker Jr.✓ Derek Shoemake✓ Jimmy Jones✓ Brant Tomlinson✓ Danny CatoePASSED (Unanimous)
Discussed, no vote ▸ tap to showtap to hide
- Proclamation: Council presented a proclamation recognizing Logan Hinton and the Lugoff-Elgin High School wrestling team for their 5A State Championship season.
- Haile Gold Mine: Presentation moved to the April agenda.
- Council Briefings: Members discussed ongoing infrastructure improvements, including Pecan Orchard drainage, Vincent Road repairs, and the Junior Leadership program success. The Administrator provided updates on park project timelines and increased youth sports participation.
Coming up ▸ tap to showtap to hide
- Special Called Meeting: Tuesday, March 31, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. to discuss growth issues and the first reading of Smart Growth Committee recommendations.
This is an independent summary prepared from the county's official published minutes and the meeting's live stream, not an official county communication.