Council passes second reading of data center moratorium amid ongoing security technology debate
Council unanimously approved a temporary moratorium on data centers and cryptocurrency operations to allow time for regulatory review. Additionally, Sheriff Lee Boan addressed public concerns regarding Flock Safety cameras, emphasizing that the technology serves as a tool for public safety rather than persistent surveillance.
10 votes10 passed2 split
The vote behind the headline
Temporary Moratorium on Data Centers and Cryptocurrency (2nd Reading):Council passed a temporary moratorium on new data center and cryptocurrency mining facility applications.
Unanimous · 7-0
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How they voted - unanimous
✓ Ben Connell✓ Russell Brazell✓ Derek Shoemake✓ Jimmy Jones✓ Brant Tomlinson✓ Danny Catoe✓ Sammie Tucker Jr.
Following the first reading on August 25, 2026, the council gave second reading approval to this temporary moratorium. The measure halts the acceptance and processing of applications for zoning, construction permits, and site plans related to data centers, data processing facilities, and cryptocurrency mining operations. The purpose of this pause is to allow the county time to evaluate the impact of these facilities on the local power grid, water resources, and infrastructure. During this period, the planning department and council intend to review potential state regulatory changes and draft amendments to the Unified Code of Zoning and Land Development Regulations (ZLDR) that would specifically govern these high-intensity uses. The move reflects growing community concerns regarding the environmental and infrastructure strain these developments might place on Kershaw County.
Approval of Agenda (None):Council unanimously approved the agenda for the September 8, 2026, meeting.
Unanimous · 7-0
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How they voted - unanimous
✓ Ben Connell✓ Russell Brazell✓ Derek Shoemake✓ Jimmy Jones✓ Brant Tomlinson✓ Danny Catoe✓ Sammie Tucker Jr.
What this was about
The Kershaw County Council met on September 8, 2026, to conduct their regular meeting. During the adoption of the agenda, Chairman Ben Connell confirmed a quorum was present, noting that Councilman Sammie Tucker Jr. was joining remotely while the other members were in person. The motion to adopt the agenda was made, seconded, and passed unanimously by all members present and voting. The agenda included several ceremonial honors, public hearings regarding industrial park agreements, and important discussions on county policy and public safety technology. Following the formal adoption, Chairman Connell exercised his prerogative to move the resolution honoring the late Officer Christopher Michael DeLong Jr. to the beginning of the meeting. This allowed the mourning family to receive the council's formal recognition before other legislative business proceeded.
Proclamation for National Diaper Need Awareness Week (None):Council proclaimed September 14-20, 2026, as National Diaper Need Awareness Week in Kershaw County.
Unanimous · 7-0
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How they voted - unanimous
✓ Ben Connell✓ Russell Brazell✓ Derek Shoemake✓ Jimmy Jones✓ Brant Tomlinson✓ Danny Catoe✓ Sammie Tucker Jr.
Councilman Derek Shoemake sponsored this proclamation, which recognizes the critical public health issue of diaper need. The measure highlights that many families in Kershaw County struggle to afford clean diapers, which are often required for children to attend daycare and for parents to remain in the workforce. By proclaiming September 14th through September 20th as National Diaper Need Awareness Week, the county aims to encourage local residents to support organizations like United for Baby that distribute these essential supplies to families in need. The proclamation emphasizes that ensuring access to basic necessities helps stabilize family economic prospects and improves infant health outcomes. Shameka Huff, Executive Director of United for Baby, accepted the honor on behalf of the organization.
Resolution for National Preparedness Month and SC State Guard (None):Council recognized September 2026 as National Preparedness Month and honored the SC State Guard.
Unanimous · 7-0
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How they voted - unanimous
✓ Ben Connell✓ Russell Brazell✓ Derek Shoemake✓ Jimmy Jones✓ Brant Tomlinson✓ Danny Catoe✓ Sammie Tucker Jr.
Councilman Brant Tomlinson sponsored this resolution to raise awareness about emergency preparedness and to commend the South Carolina State Guard for their volunteer service. The resolution acknowledges the variety of hazards faced by South Carolina, including hurricanes and severe storms, and emphasizes the importance of partnerships between local governments, first responders, and volunteer military organizations. By honoring the State Guard, the council recognized their commitment to assisting fellow citizens during disaster recovery and their role as a force multiplier for state and local authorities. The resolution encourages all Kershaw County residents to take meaningful steps to protect themselves and their families during potential disasters. Honoree Thigpen accepted the recognition on behalf of the State Guard members.
Private Hangar Contract at Airport (2nd Reading):Council approved a private hangar contract at the Kershaw County Airport, allowing a tenant to retain title.
Unanimous · 7-0
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How they voted - unanimous
✓ Ben Connell✓ Russell Brazell✓ Derek Shoemake✓ Jimmy Jones✓ Brant Tomlinson✓ Danny Catoe✓ Sammie Tucker Jr.
This ordinance approves a private hangar contract for Ron Prestage, a tenant at the Kershaw County Airport. The contract allows the tenant to retain ownership of their hangar unit until 2036, acknowledging recent capital investments made by the tenant. The measure is consistent with the county's Ordinance 104.2025, which provides a path for existing hangar contracts - where the hangar was built by the tenant - to receive fee abatements if certain economic development criteria are met. In this case, the tenant satisfies the required criteria, including substantial taxable investment within the county. By maintaining the hangar in private ownership, the county avoids administrative maintenance burdens and operational costs while continuing to collect significant ad valorem tax revenue. The agreement includes strict provisions to ensure the tenant complies with FAA regulations and county policies.
PASSED (Unanimous)
Temporary Moratorium on Data Centers and Cryptocurrency (2nd Reading):Council passed a temporary moratorium on new data center and cryptocurrency mining facility applications.
Unanimous · 7-0
▸detailsless
How they voted - unanimous
✓ Ben Connell✓ Russell Brazell✓ Derek Shoemake✓ Jimmy Jones✓ Brant Tomlinson✓ Danny Catoe✓ Sammie Tucker Jr.
Following the first reading on August 25, 2026, the council gave second reading approval to this temporary moratorium. The measure halts the acceptance and processing of applications for zoning, construction permits, and site plans related to data centers, data processing facilities, and cryptocurrency mining operations. The purpose of this pause is to allow the county time to evaluate the impact of these facilities on the local power grid, water resources, and infrastructure. During this period, the planning department and council intend to review potential state regulatory changes and draft amendments to the Unified Code of Zoning and Land Development Regulations (ZLDR) that would specifically govern these high-intensity uses. The move reflects growing community concerns regarding the environmental and infrastructure strain these developments might place on Kershaw County.
Amendment to ZLDR regarding Directional Signage (2nd Reading):Council approved an amendment to the zoning code allowing directional signs for medical facilities.
Unanimous · 7-0
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How they voted - unanimous
✓ Ben Connell✓ Russell Brazell✓ Derek Shoemake✓ Jimmy Jones✓ Brant Tomlinson✓ Danny Catoe✓ Sammie Tucker Jr.
What this was about
This ordinance amends the Kershaw County Unified Code of Zoning and Land Development Regulations (ZLDR) to permit specific directional signage for hospitals and medical facilities. The amendment, which originated from county staff, adds Section 3:4.2-19 and modifies sections related to prohibited signs and off-premise advertising. The goal is to provide clear, helpful navigation for citizens needing to reach essential healthcare services, while ensuring these signs do not become a source of commercial advertising clutter. The Planning Commission reviewed the proposal, and the council approved it with the commission's recommended adjustments to ensure the signs remain functional and compliant with existing community aesthetics. This is the second of three readings required for the ordinance to become law.
PASSED (Unanimous)
Amendment to ZLDR regarding Exempt Subdivision Conditions (2nd Reading):Council amended the ZLDR to clarify exempt subdivision standards and stormwater common plan requirements.Development
Yes 7 · No 1
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How they voted
✗ Jimmy Jones• Ben Connell · not recorded• Russell Brazell · not recorded• Derek Shoemake · not recorded• Brant Tomlinson · not recorded• Danny Catoe · not recorded• Sammie Tucker Jr. · not recorded
The official minutes don't say how the members in grey voted on this item.
This ordinance clarifies the application of the Unified Code of Zoning and Land Development Regulations (ZLDR) to subdivision of land under exempt conditions. The amendment specifies that while certain land divisions are exempt from standard subdivision requirements, the resulting parcels may still be considered part of a Larger Common Plan (LCP) as defined by the South Carolina Department of Environmental Services (SCDES). This is particularly important for managing stormwater discharges from construction sites, ensuring the county remains compliant with state permits. Although Councilman Russell Brazell motioned to defer the item during the August 25th meeting for more information, the motion failed, and the ordinance has now successfully passed second reading. Councilman Jimmy Jones cast the sole dissenting vote.
PASSEDFor 7 · Against 1
Amendment to ZLDR regarding Fire Hydrant Requirements (2nd Reading):Council amended the ZLDR to clarify fire hydrant installation requirements for major and minor subdivisions.EMS & fire
Unanimous · 7-0
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How they voted - unanimous
✓ Ben Connell✓ Russell Brazell✓ Derek Shoemake✓ Jimmy Jones✓ Brant Tomlinson✓ Danny Catoe✓ Sammie Tucker Jr.
This ordinance amends Section 5:1.4-5 of the Kershaw County ZLDR to further clarify the requirements for installing fire hydrants in both major and minor subdivision developments. The measure aims to improve safety and support the Fire Service's capabilities, particularly in the more rural areas of the county where existing water infrastructure may be limited. Councilman Derek Shoemake and county administration worked jointly on this amendment to ensure that the code provides clear guidance to developers. The ordinance also allows for discretion in cases where standard hydrant placement may not be feasible or necessary, allowing the Planning and Zoning department and the Fire Marshal to review each case based on infrastructure capacity and the specific needs of the subdivision. The ordinance passed unanimously on its second reading.
Joint Industrial Park Agreement for Project Gemstone (3rd Reading):Council finalized the expansion of a Joint Industrial Park to include property for Project Gemstone.Jobs & economyParks & rec
Yes 6 · No 1
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How they voted
✓ Ben Connell✓ Russell Brazell✓ Derek Shoemake✓ Brant Tomlinson✓ Danny Catoe✓ Sammie Tucker Jr.✗ Jimmy Jones
This ordinance received final approval after the third reading. The measure amends the existing Joint Industrial Park agreement between Kershaw County and Fairfield County to expand the park's boundaries. The expansion incorporates specific real property located in Kershaw County, which is associated with an economic development initiative referred to as 'Project Gemstone.' During the discussion, Chairman Ben Connell and Councilman Derek Shoemake clarified that the project involves the expansion of local golf course and lodge facilities, emphasizing that inclusion in a multi-county industrial park (MCIP) is necessary to ensure the project's Fee in Lieu of Tax (FILOT) agreement remains viable under state law. The inclusion of non-contiguous parcels in MCIPs is a standard economic development practice. Councilman Jimmy Jones voted against the final reading, while the rest of the council voted in favor.
Appointments to Employee Relations Committee (None):Council unanimously approved a slate of new appointments to the Employee Relations (Grievance) Committee.Appointments
Unanimous · 7-0
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How they voted - unanimous
✓ Ben Connell✓ Russell Brazell✓ Derek Shoemake✓ Jimmy Jones✓ Brant Tomlinson✓ Danny Catoe✓ Sammie Tucker Jr.
County Administrator Danny Templar presented the recommendations for new appointments to the Employee Relations Committee. This committee is mandated by the County and Municipal Employees Grievance Procedure Act and plays a vital role in handling employee grievances, 'Plus One' awards, and leave bank requests. The new appointees include Edgar Neal (EMS), Brigitte Gerrald (General Sessions), and Latasha Simon (Finance), who replace members whose terms had expired. Additionally, current Chair Autumn Furniss agreed to extend her service for another year. Councilman Jimmy Jones moved to approve the slate of nominees, and the motion was seconded by Councilman Brant Tomlinson, passing with a unanimous vote.
Hate Crime Ordinance: Councilman Sammie Tucker Jr. introduced this topic for future consideration following a previous petition; no action was taken.
Inmate Work/Road Crews: Jail Administrator Jermaine Gordan discussed the feasibility of utilizing inmate work crews for community maintenance, noting current limitations regarding inmate sentencing and liability.
Project Gemstone: Council discussed the boundary expansion of a Joint Industrial Park to include specific property for economic development.
Public comment▸showhide
Residents addressed council on several topics, including:
- Concerns regarding the Fourth Amendment implications and potential misuse of Flock Safety camera systems.
- Environmental and infrastructure impacts of data centers, specifically regarding water usage and power grid capacity.
- A request for the county to establish clear parameters and support for the creation of a local Veterans Monument.
- Feedback on zoning district protections and the Joint Industrial Park agreement.
Coming up▸showhide
Laverne McKenzie Honoring Resolution: Deferred to the September 22, 2026, meeting.
Next Regular Meeting: Scheduled for September 22, 2026.
This is an independent summary prepared from the county's official published minutes and the meeting's live stream, not an official county communication.
How this recap was made: Prepared from the county's official minutes (the verified vote record) combined with the meeting's live stream (quotes and discussion). This is an automated summary written by software (a neural-network summarizer working from the documents above). Rely on the official county record for anything important.
