The Lancaster County Council convened on February 10, 2025, to discuss pressing community issues, including concerns over traffic congestion from proposed developments, the county’s annual financial audit, and updates on the regional park project. Residents voiced strong opposition to a large-scale development in Indian Land, citing infrastructure challenges. The council also reviewed the county’s financial health and continued planning efforts for the new regional park.
Agenda Approval
The council unanimously approved the meeting agenda following a motion by Council Member McGriff, seconded by Council Member Neal.
Citizen Comments
Several residents expressed concerns during the citizen comments segment:
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Mary Ann Hudson, Registration and Elections Director, expressed gratitude for being honored as Employee of the Year, explaining her previous absences due to health issues.
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Sam Beagle voiced opposition to a proposed 868-acre development between Charlotte Highway and Van Wyck Road, citing existing traffic congestion and inadequate infrastructure.
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Bruce Cohen highlighted potential traffic issues from the same development, emphasizing the need for infrastructure improvements on Highway 521 and surrounding areas.
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Renee Chandler raised concerns about rapid development in Indian Land, stressing the strain on infrastructure and medical services, and advocated for a development moratorium until infrastructure catches up.
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Ann Dykeman questioned ongoing road widening on Van Wyck Road and emphasized the need for increased funding for police, fire departments, and emergency services amid growing development.
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Kathy Storm discussed the relationship between the Planning Commission and the Council, concerns about the environmental impact of the Indie, and supported a moratorium on new developments until infrastructure needs are met.
An electronic comment from Tommy Rainey of Indian Land addressed the rise of short-term rentals, urging the council to implement regulations to maintain community stability and safety.
Special Presentation
Grant Davis, CPA Director of Mauldin and Jenkins, presented the annual comprehensive financial report for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2024. The county received an unmodified (clean) opinion on its financial statements and compliance with federal spending. The general fund reported $84 million in revenues against $80 million in expenditures, resulting in a $4 million surplus.
Consent Agenda
The council unanimously approved the consent agenda items 7A through 7E.
Ordinances
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Third Reading of Ordinance 2024-1945: The council held a public hearing and unanimously approved an ordinance amending the Unified Development Ordinance to increase height limits for properties zoned General Business within the Highway Corridor Overlay District.
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First Reading of Ordinance 2025-XXXX: The council approved the first reading of an ordinance amending the budget for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2024, and ending June 30, 2025. The amendments include appropriations for the Sheriff’s Department, housing for juveniles in the Department of Juvenile Justice, and EMS equipment overruns.
Board and Commission Appointments
The council made the following appointments:
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Accommodations Tax Advisory Committee: Appointed Oluwaseun O. Odukomaiya as a representative residing north of Highway 5.
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Community Relations Commission: Appointed Mark Khan and Melissa Mendes Nera to at-large positions.
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Planning Commission (District Two): Appointed Yimika Kurian, effective February 19, 2025.
Regional Park Update
Stephanie Snowden provided an update on the Regional Park project, detailing completed due diligence, including wetland studies and site evaluations. The park will feature multi-use baseball and soccer complexes, a splash pad, playgrounds, and various amenities. The project remains on schedule, with plans to go out to bid by May 2025.
Council Appointments
The council reappointed Council Members Louis and the Chairman to the Catawba Regional Council of Governments (COG) board. Discussions were held regarding the continuation of the ad hoc committee for the Regional Park, with a consensus to keep all council members informed and involved as the project progresses.
The meeting concluded with a motion to adjourn, which was unanimously approved.
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