Council passed a resolution encouraging citizens to wear face coverings in public spaces to help slow the spread of COVID-19

How they voted

What this was about

Facing a significant spike in COVID-19 cases, Kershaw County Council approved a non-binding resolution that encourages citizens to wear face coverings in public spaces. The resolution specifically targets high-risk environments such as grocery stores, pharmacies, and county-owned buildings where social distancing is impossible. During the meeting, officials noted that local case numbers tripled between May and June, prompting the need for proactive safety measures. The measure emphasizes personal responsibility and alignment with recommendations from the CDC and DHEC rather than establishing an enforceable mandate. While some members argued that an ordinance might eventually become necessary if trends continue, the majority favored a voluntary approach to respect individual liberty. The resolution underscores the importance of communal efforts to protect vulnerable populations while acknowledging the ongoing public health challenge. This vote represents a shift toward heightened awareness in the county as school operations and general economic activities remain under constant evaluation.

Who said what

How they voted - unanimous

What this was about

This zoning map amendment approves a request to change approximately one acre of land from Rural Development 1 (RD1) to Rural Development 2 (RD2). The measure came before the Council to allow the property owner to remove an existing structure and replace it with a new manufactured home. The Planning Commission previously reviewed the request and provided a unanimous recommendation for approval. The Council noted that there was no public opposition to the move, and a neighbor had formally expressed agreement with the change. This first reading passed unanimously, signaling broad support for the property owner's request. Following this approval, the measure will proceed through the standard legislative process for final adoption.

How they voted

What this was about

Council voted to amend the Zoning and Land Development Regulations (ZLDR) to create a specific framework for large-scale solar facilities. Previously, the county lacked clear code provisions for these projects, often grouping them with general power generation facilities. The new regulations establish specific setback requirements of 100 feet from roads and property lines, along with a 50-foot landscaped buffer to protect surrounding areas. Proponents argued that these clear rules provide necessary comfort for developers and help make the county a competitive destination for green energy investment. The Planning Commission recommended approval unanimously, though the measure passed Council 5-2 after some members questioned the specific dimensions of the buffers and setbacks. Staff confirmed that these regulations apply strictly to large-scale operations rather than residential solar arrays.

Who said what

How they voted - unanimous

What this was about

The Council unanimously approved the appointment of Eric Gunter to the Health Services District Board. During the discussion, members clarified that the term length for this position is six years, resolving previous confusion regarding whether it was a three-year or six-year commitment. Gunter was recognized as a well-regarded community member with a strong interest in local health services.

Who said what

How they voted - unanimous

What this was about

Council approved a contract award for a Caterpillar C18 generator for the Government Center to ensure power reliability during emergencies. The total cost of the equipment and installation is $231,227. A significant portion of this project, 75 percent, is funded by a FEMA grant, resulting in a net cost to the county of approximately $57,806. The upgrade is designed to keep critical county operations, such as the finance department, functioning during power outages. Council members noted that the contractor, Blanchard Machinery, has a strong reputation for performance in the region. The generator will be maintained by county staff and the vendor as part of the county's broader emergency preparedness plan.

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