York County Council Approves Impact Fee Compromise and Major Economic Expansions

The York County Council meeting on December 15, 2025, was highlighted by a significant and contentious decision regarding the Clover School District impact fees, resulting in a compromised $8,000 fee rather than the requested $15,035. The Council also greenlit major economic development projects, including the expansion of Project Forge (PDM Real Estate II) and the relocation of Project Dinger (Tread Athletics), promising over 100 new high-paying jobs to the region. Additionally, the meeting included the swearing-in of various board members and a heartfelt recognition of Allan Horton for 23 years of service to the county.

Detailed Summary of Agenda Items

1. Call to Order and Ceremonial Matters

Invocation and Pledge: Led by Council member Andy Litten.
Board Appointments: Seven newly appointed members were sworn into various boards, including the Board of Disabilities and Special Needs, Building Board of Appeals, and the Culture and Heritage Commission.
Retirement Recognition: Allan Horton was honored for 23 years of service in York County Public Works. Council members praised his dedication and the “family tradition” of service, as his wife and son are also county employees.

2. Public Forum Session

Citizens addressed several topics, most notably the Clover School District impact fees.
Speakers from the Home Builders Association (HBA) defended their organization against social media criticism, while several residents urged the council to “let growth pay for growth.”
Dr. David Keely proposed a new ordinance to restrict the influx of tobacco and nicotine retailers targeting youth.

3. Consent Agenda & New Business Highlights

Budget Calendar: Approval of the FY 2026-2027 Budget Calendar.
Infrastructure & Public Safety:
- Authorized $146,508.62 for Microsoft Enterprise licensing.
- Awarded $734,000 to Pinnix Inc. for renovations at the York County Government Center.
- Authorized the purchase of a new fire engine for up to $990,000.
- Approved a seven-year, $25.8 million agreement with Motorola Solutions for the 800MHz public safety radio network.
Catawba Bend Preserve: Approved fiberoptic installation by Comporium and a $1.02 million contract with Nature Trails LLC to design 10 miles of mountain bike trails and a parking area.

4. Rezoning Actions (Second Readings)

The Council approved several rezonings, including:

Case 25-40: 2.81 acres on Pole Branch Road, Clover, from RMX-10 to RUD to allow for a seasonal agricultural stand.
Case 25-41: 0.14 acres in Clover to incorporate a parcel into the Westlake Village Shopping Center.
Case 25-42: 4.43 acres on Whitewolf Road, Blacksburg, to allow for a single-family residence.
Case 25-45: 1.9 acres in Fort Mill to allow an additional family dwelling.
Case 25-47: 0.32 acres in Clover for a detached single-family home.

5. Public Hearings: Economic Development

Project Forge (PDM Real Estate II): Approved the expansion of this preinsulated copper pipe manufacturer. The company is purchasing a 130,000 sq ft facility in Rock Hill, creating 42 new jobs with an average annual pay of $31.50 (noted as an hourly rate during the meeting).
Project Dinger (Tread Athletics): Approved a special source credit agreement for the relocation of their headquarters to Fort Mill. The $10 million investment is expected to create 71 jobs.

6. Old Business: Clover School District Impact Fees

The most debated item involved updating the impact fees for the Clover School District (CSD).

The Motion: Originally, the request was for $15,035 per single-family home.
The Debate: Council members expressed exhaustion over the two-month deliberation and social media vitriol. Some argued that the full fee was necessary to support CSD’s three new schools, while others felt it was unfair to rural residents who might not use those facilities or to those seeking affordable housing.
The Result: After a motion to defer failed, the Council passed a compromised amendment to set the impact fee at $8,000 district-wide (a 100% increase from the current $4,000) with other housing types pro-rated.