The headline
Council initiates a 12-month moratorium on data centers to allow time for regulatory development. Following extensive public comment and internal debate, the council voted to move forward with a 12-month moratorium on data center construction. The council aims to use this period to draft specific zoning and safety regulations while monitoring potential state-level legislation.
Master Planned Development District Ordinance (Deferred):
Council deferred the second reading of an ordinance establishing a residential master planned district.
Development
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 council voted unanimously to defer the second reading of an ordinance designed to create a new zoning overlay district called the Residential Master Planned District (RMPD). This overlay is intended to promote innovative design, protect natural resources, and provide a variety of housing choices within unified residential projects. The Planning Commission previously provided a favorable recommendation on the text amendment, including modifications to perimeter buffer requirements. The deferral allows for further refinement of the ordinance before it moves to a final vote. During the meeting, council members decided that more time was needed to review the implications of the overlay before granting it final approval. This measure will return to the council agenda for deliberation in two meetings. The delay ensures that the council can conduct a more thorough assessment of how this new zoning tool will affect future residential growth and current infrastructure capacities in Kershaw County.
PASSED (Unanimous). The council voted to defer this item for two meetings
Votes at a glance ▸ tap to showtap to hide
Private Hangar Contract at Kershaw County Airport (1st Reading):
Council approved the first reading of an ordinance to establish contract terms for a private airport hangar.
Yes 6 · No 1
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How they voted
✓ Ben Connell✓ Russell Brazell✓ Sammie Tucker Jr.✓ Derek Shoemake✓ Brant Tomlinson✓ Danny Catoe✗ Jimmy JonesWhat this was about
This ordinance initiates the first reading of a contract for a private hangar at the Kershaw County Airport. The measure sets the specific contract rates, lease terms, and the legal framework for the county to authorize execution of the agreement. This action is part of the county's ongoing management of airport facilities and infrastructure to support private aviation operations. By formalizing these terms, the council ensures that private hangar usage remains consistent with county regulations and airport operational standards. This is the first of three required readings, meaning the agreement will return for further review and public input. Following the passage of this reading, the county will proceed with final contract negotiations before the second reading. The council vote was 6-1, indicating broad support for the initiative despite opposition from Councilman Jimmy Jones. Residents should expect this item to return to the agenda for second reading as the airport authority works to finalize the specific operational requirements.
PASSED For 6 · Against 1
Multi-County Industrial Park Agreement with Lancaster County (1st Reading):
Council authorized a joint industrial park agreement with Lancaster County to facilitate future economic development projects.
Jobs & economyParks & rec
Yes 4 · No 3
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How they voted
✓ Russell Brazell✓ Sammie Tucker Jr.✓ Derek Shoemake✓ Brant Tomlinson✗ Ben Connell✗ Danny Catoe✗ Jimmy JonesWhat this was about
This ordinance authorizes the creation of a Multi-County Industrial Park (MCIP) agreement between Kershaw and Lancaster counties. This legal arrangement is a standard economic development tool that allows counties to share tax revenues and property classifications for industrial sites. By establishing this partnership, Kershaw County gains additional flexibility in offering incentives to potential employers, such as the previously discussed Project Ballast. The agreement creates a joint district initially located within Kershaw County boundaries, providing a framework for future investment and job creation. This vote marks the first reading of the ordinance, which requires two additional readings before final adoption. The decision passed 4-3, highlighting a split among council members regarding the county's current economic development strategy. Supporters emphasize the need for regional partnerships to remain competitive, while opponents have questioned the transparency and necessity of these specific agreements at this time.
PASSED For 4 · Against 3
Amendments to ZLDR Height Limitations (1st Reading):
Council approved a first reading to amend zoning regulations regarding structural height limitations for energy projects.
Yes 4 · No 3
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How they voted
✓ Ben Connell✓ Sammie Tucker Jr.✓ Derek Shoemake✓ Brant Tomlinson✗ Russell Brazell✗ Danny Catoe✗ Jimmy JonesWhat this was about
This ordinance seeks to amend the Unified Code of Zoning and Land Development Regulations (ZLDR) to clarify exceptions to existing height limitations. The amendment specifically targets structures associated with energy infrastructure, such as exhaust stacks and other industrial components that exceed the typical 35-foot height limit. This proposal follows recent discussions regarding the development of large-scale energy facilities in the county. By adjusting the ZLDR, the council aims to create a clearer regulatory path for industrial infrastructure that is necessary for modern energy projects. The measure passed its first reading on a 4-3 vote, demonstrating continued debate over how to balance economic development with existing zoning standards. The ordinance must go through two more readings, including a public hearing, to gather community feedback and finalize the specific language of the height exceptions. This process allows for rigorous debate on whether these changes are appropriate for the county's future landscape.
PASSED For 4 · Against 3
Who said what
» Sammie Tucker Jr. Council Member: offered the motion for the first reading of the height limitation amendment ▶︎» Danny Catoe Council Member: expressed concern that the amendment is tailored to benefit a specific project ▶︎» Jimmy Jones Council Member: urged council to prioritize the community over the project and expressed disappointment in the process ▶︎
Master Planned Development District Ordinance (Deferred):
Council deferred the second reading of an ordinance establishing a residential master planned district.
Development
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 council voted unanimously to defer the second reading of an ordinance designed to create a new zoning overlay district called the Residential Master Planned District (RMPD). This overlay is intended to promote innovative design, protect natural resources, and provide a variety of housing choices within unified residential projects. The Planning Commission previously provided a favorable recommendation on the text amendment, including modifications to perimeter buffer requirements. The deferral allows for further refinement of the ordinance before it moves to a final vote. During the meeting, council members decided that more time was needed to review the implications of the overlay before granting it final approval. This measure will return to the council agenda for deliberation in two meetings. The delay ensures that the council can conduct a more thorough assessment of how this new zoning tool will affect future residential growth and current infrastructure capacities in Kershaw County.
PASSED (Unanimous). The council voted to defer this item for two meetings
Probate Judge Special Commitment Hearings Resolution (Final):
Council approved a resolution allowing the Kershaw County Probate Judge to conduct involuntary commitment hearings for other counties.
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 resolution approves a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) enabling the Kershaw County Probate Judge to serve as a special probate judge for emergency involuntary commitment cases originating in other South Carolina counties. This initiative is designed to be revenue positive for Kershaw County, as costs associated with these hearings will be offset by fees paid by the Department of Mental Health and participating private facilities. The judge will receive a salary increase of $25,000 to compensate for the additional caseload, which is fully supported by the generated fees. The county has committed to funding up to $120,000 for necessary equipment and personnel to ensure these hearings are conducted efficiently. This agreement is expected to be reviewed annually during the budget process to ensure it remains revenue neutral. By assisting smaller counties lacking adequate resources, Kershaw County is leveraging its judicial capacity to provide a vital regional service while maintaining a net gain for the county budget.
PASSED (Unanimous)
Data Center Moratorium (Motion to Amend/1st Reading process):
Council moved to begin the process for a 12-month moratorium on data center construction.
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
Following extensive public concern regarding potential data center development, the council voted unanimously to initiate the process for a 12-month moratorium. This temporary suspension of development will provide the county with the necessary time to research data centers, understand their impact on local infrastructure and water resources, and draft comprehensive zoning regulations. Council members emphasized that this pause is not an outright ban but a tool to ensure that if these facilities are permitted in the future, they meet strict standards that protect the county's environment and residents' quality of life. The 12-month period also aligns with the ongoing legislative discussions at the state level. While the vote today serves as a formal step toward creating the moratorium ordinance, the council will require three readings and a public hearing before it is legally enacted. This approach allows the council to maintain control over future growth while listening to community feedback.
PASSED (Unanimous). Council approved a 12-month moratorium for the next agenda
Who said what
» Russell Brazell Vice-Chairman: proposed the moratorium to allow time to develop guardrails for data center development ▶︎» Jimmy Jones Council Member: amended the motion to a 12-month moratorium to ensure the measure receives council support ▶︎» Derek Shoemake Council Member: expressed support for a shorter moratorium and future regulations ▶︎
Cancel November 24 and December 22 Council Meetings:
Council voted to cancel the final two council meetings of the year due to the holiday season.
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 council approved the cancellation of its regularly scheduled meetings on November 24 and December 22, 2026. These dates fall during the Thanksgiving and Christmas holiday periods, respectively. By deciding to cancel these sessions now, the council allows members and staff to plan their holiday travel and observe the holidays with their families. The council remains committed to its schedule for all other months, ensuring that county business continues uninterrupted throughout the remainder of the year. This is a recurring administrative action that the council typically performs to accommodate the holiday calendar.
PASSED (Unanimous)
Discussed, no vote ▸ tap to showtap to hide
- Inmate Work Crews/Road Crews: Council discussed the feasibility of using inmates for road litter cleanup. Staff cited legal and constitutional limitations, noting that many current detainees are violent offenders or pre-sentenced, making road labor difficult. Council requested further data from the jail administrator.
- Convenience Center Hours: Council debated the recent decision to limit hours at convenience centers. While staff highlighted significant cost savings and reduced out-of-county dumping, council members raised concerns regarding service accessibility for residents on Lake Wat 水ery. Staff will continue to monitor the data and assess potential adjustments.
Public comment ▸ tap to showtap to hide
Nine residents addressed the council regarding data centers, the proposed gas power plant, and convenience center hours. Speakers expressed deep concerns about the environmental impact of data centers, potential noise and water usage, and the need for stricter regulations. Other comments addressed property damage caused by road maintenance equipment and requested more transparency regarding ongoing industrial projects.
Coming up ▸ tap to showtap to hide
- Council will review data and potential operational adjustments for convenience centers at future meetings.
- The 12-month moratorium on data centers will return for formal first reading.
- A report on jail rosters regarding inmate work crew eligibility is expected in two meetings.
Independent summary, generated from the county's public video, not an official county communication.