Council enacted a temporary moratorium on data centers and cryptocurrency operations
The council voted to pause the acceptance and review of applications for data centers, data processing facilities, and cryptocurrency mining operations to allow time for the development of new zoning regulations and to monitor state-level regulatory actions. This measure aims to address community concerns regarding infrastructure impact and noise pollution.
8 votes8 passed2 split
The vote behind the headline
Moratorium on Data Centers and Cryptocurrency Operations (3rd Reading):Council enacted a temporary moratorium on data centers and cryptocurrency mining facilities to allow time for zoning updates.
Unanimous · 6-0
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How they voted - unanimous
✓ Derek Shoemake✓ Russell Brazell✓ Ben Connell✓ Danny Catoe✓ Brant Tomlinson✓ Jimmy Jones
This ordinance establishes a temporary moratorium on the acceptance and review of applications for data centers, data processing facilities, and cryptocurrency mining operations in Kershaw County. The freeze applies to zoning approvals, construction permits, and site plans related to these uses. The purpose of this measure is to provide the county with a 'cooling-off' period to study the infrastructure, noise, and environmental impacts of such facilities, while also awaiting potential state-level regulatory actions. During the moratorium, the Planning and Zoning Commission will work on crafting specific amendments to the ZLDR to ensure that if these facilities are eventually allowed, they must meet strict county standards regarding water usage, energy consumption, and noise pollution. Public feedback during the process was overwhelmingly in favor of pausing these projects to allow for more robust local control and transparency.
Performance Standards for Energy Infrastructure (1st Reading):This ordinance adds energy infrastructure projects to existing county performance standards for noise, fire, and vibration.
Unanimous · 6-0
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How they voted - unanimous
✓ Derek Shoemake✓ Russell Brazell✓ Ben Connell✓ Danny Catoe✓ Brant Tomlinson✓ Jimmy Jones
This ordinance amends Section 3:3.18 of the Kershaw County Unified Code of Zoning and Land Development Regulations (ZLDR) to include Energy Infrastructure Projects - such as power plants and energy storage facilities - under the county's established performance standards. Previously, the county's regulations for noise, air pollution, vibration, glare, and fire safety applied primarily to manufacturing and processing facilities. By expanding these standards, the county aims to provide a regulatory framework for protecting surrounding properties from the potential negative impacts of energy infrastructure. The measure requires that these projects adhere to specific decibel limits and safety protocols. Council members emphasized that while they may have individual reservations about specific industrial projects like Beaufort Rosemary, this amendment ensures all such facilities are held to the same rigorous standards as other county industries. This was a first reading; the ordinance will return to the Planning and Zoning Commission and Council for further review.
Exceptions to Height Limitations for Energy Infrastructure (2nd Reading):This ordinance allows structures associated with energy infrastructure to exceed standard height limits, subject to setback requirements.
Yes 4 · No 3
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How they voted
✗ Russell Brazell✗ Danny Catoe✗ Jimmy Jones• Derek Shoemake · not recorded• Ben Connell · not recorded• Brant Tomlinson · not recorded
The meeting video didn't make clear how the members in grey voted; their votes fill in automatically once the county posts the official minutes.
This ordinance amends Section 3:2.6 of the ZLDR to add structures and appurtenances associated with Energy Infrastructure Projects to the list of items exempted from standard county height limitations. The amendment responds to the South Carolina Energy Security Act of 2025, which encourages expedited siting and permitting for energy infrastructure. The ordinance mandates that any exempted structures located near single-family residential zones must maintain a separation distance equal to one foot for every one foot of structure height. The Planning and Zoning Commission provided an unfavorable recommendation for this amendment, noting concerns about how height exemptions are granted. During the meeting, Council members discussed the possibility of increasing these setback requirements to two feet per foot of height during upcoming readings to provide additional protection for residential neighbors. The measure passed 4-3 and will proceed to a third reading and public hearing.
Residential Master Planned District (RMPD) Overlay (2nd Reading - Deferral):Council voted to indefinitely defer the RMPD overlay proposal until it can be reviewed during a broader ZLDR rewrite.Housing
Unanimous · 6-0
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How they voted - unanimous
✓ Derek Shoemake✓ Russell Brazell✓ Ben Connell✓ Danny Catoe✓ Brant Tomlinson✓ Jimmy Jones
Council voted unanimously to defer the consideration of the Residential Master Planned District (RMPD) overlay. The proposal was intended to create a new zoning designation for large-scale residential developments; however, Council members determined that the draft text required further refinement to properly manage density and community growth. Rather than voting on the current version, the Council opted to remove the item from the active agenda and fold the discussion into the upcoming, comprehensive rewrite of the Kershaw County Unified Code of Zoning and Land Development Regulations (ZLDR). This approach ensures that any new residential standards will be consistent with the county's long-term master plan and zoning goals. Council members noted that they wish to shape these density regulations more carefully before moving forward.
PASSED (Unanimous). The council voted to indefinitely defer this item until it can be reviewed as part of the broader ZLDR rewrite
Council approved the third and final reading of an ordinance authorizing a private hangar contract at the Kershaw County Airport. This contract establishes the specific rates, terms, and conditions under which the private entity may operate and lease space for a hangar on airport property. By finalizing this agreement, the county ensures consistent revenue and standardizes operational requirements for private aviation infrastructure at the facility. The move is part of the county's ongoing effort to manage airport resources and encourage private investment in local aviation services. The ordinance authorizes the County Administrator and appropriate staff to execute all necessary documents to effectuate the agreement.
Moratorium on Data Centers and Cryptocurrency Operations (3rd Reading):Council enacted a temporary moratorium on data centers and cryptocurrency mining facilities to allow time for zoning updates.
Unanimous · 6-0
▸detailsless
How they voted - unanimous
✓ Derek Shoemake✓ Russell Brazell✓ Ben Connell✓ Danny Catoe✓ Brant Tomlinson✓ Jimmy Jones
This ordinance establishes a temporary moratorium on the acceptance and review of applications for data centers, data processing facilities, and cryptocurrency mining operations in Kershaw County. The freeze applies to zoning approvals, construction permits, and site plans related to these uses. The purpose of this measure is to provide the county with a 'cooling-off' period to study the infrastructure, noise, and environmental impacts of such facilities, while also awaiting potential state-level regulatory actions. During the moratorium, the Planning and Zoning Commission will work on crafting specific amendments to the ZLDR to ensure that if these facilities are eventually allowed, they must meet strict county standards regarding water usage, energy consumption, and noise pollution. Public feedback during the process was overwhelmingly in favor of pausing these projects to allow for more robust local control and transparency.
Directional Signs for Hospital and Medical Facilities (3rd Reading):Council approved an ordinance allowing directional signage to help the public locate hospital and medical facilities.
Unanimous · 6-0
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How they voted - unanimous
✓ Derek Shoemake✓ Russell Brazell✓ Ben Connell✓ Danny Catoe✓ Brant Tomlinson✓ Jimmy Jones
Council approved the third reading of an ordinance amending the ZLDR to permit the installation of directional signs for hospitals and medical facilities. The amendment also includes provisions to exempt these signs from certain 'prohibited sign' and 'off-premise advertising' restrictions. The goal of the ordinance is to improve public access and safety by ensuring that residents can easily navigate to emergency and medical services. This amendment was staff-generated and received a positive recommendation from the Planning and Zoning Commission. By clarifying where and how these signs can be placed, the county hopes to reduce confusion and assist visitors in finding critical healthcare locations throughout the community.
Clarification of Exempt Subdivision Conditions (3rd Reading):Council clarified subdivision exemptions regarding state stormwater permitting requirements and common plans.Development
Yes 5 · No 1
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How they voted
✓ Derek Shoemake✓ Russell Brazell✓ Ben Connell✓ Danny Catoe✓ Brant Tomlinson✗ Jimmy Jones
This ordinance amends the ZLDR to clarify how exempt subdivisions interact with stormwater permitting regulations set by the South Carolina Department of Environmental Services (SCDES). Specifically, the measure ensures that while certain land divisions may be exempt from standard subdivision regulations, they may still be classified as part of a 'Larger Common Plan' (LCP) under federal and state environmental permits. The Council approved an amendment proposed by staff to clean up the language regarding references to state law and agency phone numbers, ensuring the plat notes remain accurate even if state agency details change. This measure aims to balance the ability of property owners to divide land for family or agricultural purposes with the need to prevent unchecked environmental impact from unpermitted large-scale construction projects.
PASSEDFor 5 · Against 1. The ordinance was passed following an amendment regarding plat notes and state law references
Fire Hydrant Requirements in Subdivisions (3rd Reading):Council clarified fire hydrant requirements for both major and minor subdivision developments.DevelopmentEMS & fire
Unanimous · 6-0
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How they voted - unanimous
✓ Derek Shoemake✓ Russell Brazell✓ Ben Connell✓ Danny Catoe✓ Brant Tomlinson✓ Jimmy Jones
Council approved the third reading of an ordinance updating the ZLDR regarding fire hydrant requirements. The change amends Section 5:1.4-5 to provide clearer guidance on where and when fire hydrants must be installed in both major and minor subdivision submittals. This is particularly relevant for the county's rural areas, where water pressure and emergency access are significant safety factors. Councilman Danny Catoe, who requested the update, noted that the change will provide necessary consistency for developers and ensure that public safety is prioritized during the planning stage of new residential projects. The amendment passed unanimously without further debate during the final reading.
Proclamations: Council honored the 117th Engineer Brigade, Task Force Castle, for their service and accepted an American flag flown in their honor. They also recognized the Woolard Technology Center FFA and 4-H chapters for their state championship win in horse judging and national Gold Emblem recognition.
Resolution 6A: Honoring the life of Laverne McKenzie was deferred to the first meeting in October due to the family's inability to attend.
Public comment▸showhide
Residents expressed several concerns during the public comment period:
Animal Services: A speaker requested improved animal shelter facilities and clearer regulations on humane tethering.
Zoning/Data Centers: Several speakers raised concerns about the environmental impact, water usage, noise levels, and transparency regarding data center projects, specifically questioning the current zoning height variances and traffic studies.
Surveillance: A speaker criticized the use of Flock safety cameras, labeling them a breach of privacy and an overreach of government power.
Infrastructure: A resident reported ongoing maintenance issues on Race Street regarding drainage and emergency vehicle access.
Coming up▸showhide
Finance Committee Meeting: Scheduled for Wednesday, September 23, 2026, at 3:00 p.m.
Early Voting: Runs from October 19 through October 31, 2026, at the Camden City Arena and Elgin Community Center.
Next Council Meeting: First meeting in October, which will include the deferred resolution honoring Laverne McKenzie.
Independent summary, generated from the county's public video, not an official county communication.
How this recap was made: Prepared from the meeting's live-stream transcript and the official agenda packet. The county's official minutes (the verified vote record) will be cross-checked automatically once the county publishes them, often a couple of months later. 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.
