Pickens County public meetings in 2023

Pickens County Council

The Pickens County Council is meeting to discuss a moratorium on residential land use, development, and subdivision concept plan applications. The body is also considering a resolution to schedule a public hearing regarding amendments to the Unified Development Standards Ordinance.

• Resolution 2023-34: Proposed public hearing on January 8, 2024, for Ordinance 629 (Unified Development Standards Ordinance amendments)
• Ordinance No. 630: First reading of an additional time period for the moratorium on residential land use, development, or subdivision concept plan applications

The Council scheduled a public hearing for January 8, 2024, regarding proposed amendments to the Unified Development Standards Ordinance. Additionally, the Council held a first reading of an ordinance to extend a moratorium on residential land use and development applications.

• Approved Resolution 2023-34 to hold a public hearing on January 8, 2024, for UDSO amendments (5-0)
• Approved first reading in title only of Ordinance No. 630 to extend the residential land use moratorium (6-0)

Mid Month Meeting

The Committee of the Whole will meet to discuss two specific log items. The agenda focuses on UDSO and library renovations and construction methods.

• Discussion of Log No. 141 – UDSO
• Discussion of Log No. 224 – Library Renovations/Construction Methods

The Committee of the Whole decided that the Hampton Memorial Library project will use a design-build method managed by the Administration. Council also approved several land-use designation changes in District 4 and requested staff recommendations for RV park interior roads.

• Approved design-build method for Hampton Memorial Library managed by Administration (5-1)
• Approved District 4 land-use changes to Agricultural Heritage, Community Center, and Natural Heritage (6-0)
• Approved request for staff recommendations on RV park interior roads before third reading (6-0)

Pickens County Council

The council is holding a special-called meeting to discuss boards and commissions applications in executive session. No other public business items are listed on the agenda.

• Executive session to discuss Boards and Commissions Applications

The Council held a special-called meeting to review board and commission applications in executive session. Following the session, the Council approved a comprehensive list of appointments to various county boards, commissions, and water authorities.

• Approved appointments to various Boards and Commissions, including the Planning Commission and Library Board of Directors (6-0)

Mid Month Meeting

The Committee of the Whole is meeting to discuss Log No. 141 regarding UDSO. No other substantive items are listed on the agenda.

• Discussion of Log No. 141 – UDSO

The Committee of the Whole unanimously approved a series of motions to reclassify land areas in Pickens County, changing zones between Gateway, Community Center, and Natural Heritage Areas near Clemson and Pickens. The council also unanimously adopted proposed language for Section 303 regarding Outdoor Motorsports Facilities, Racing and Testing Tracks. The ordinance was moved out of committee for a third reading, with an amendment requiring Natural Heritage Areas to be a minimum of half an acre.

• Adopted combined land use changes for Gateway, Community Center, and Natural Heritage Areas (6-0)
• Adopted proposed language for Section 303 Outdoor Motorsports Facilities (6-0)
• Moved ordinance out of committee for third reading
• Amended Natural Heritage Area definition to minimum 1/2 acre lot (6-0)

Pickens County Council

Pickens County Council will hold a third reading of an ordinance to delay the 2024 reassessment process. The body will also consider a resolution requesting municipalities to pause annexations to manage county growth.

• Third reading of ordinance to delay 2024 reassessment process
• Proposed resolution for municipalities to impose a moratorium on annexations
• First reading of ordinance to convey real property near Old Central Roller Mill to Issaqueena Mills, LLC
• Local Accommodations Request for 2024 Pickens County Ag + Art Tour
• Library Renovation/Construction Methods referred to Committee of the Whole

The Council approved several updates to the developmental standards matrix and moved the ordinance toward a third reading. A resolution was passed calling for a municipal moratorium on annexations, and an ordinance to delay the 2024 reassessment process was approved. Council also allocated $3,000 for the Ag + Art Tour.

• Approved ordinance delaying 2024 reassessment process (4-2)
• Passed resolution calling for 180-day municipal moratorium on annexations (6-0)
• Approved $3,000 Local Accommodations Tax funding for Ag + Art Tour (6-0)
• Approved developmental standards for Outdoor Motorsports Facilities (6-0)
• Sent impact fee estimates to Planning Commission for consideration (5-1)
• Adopted various map and matrix changes for heritage and gateway areas (6-0)
• Approved first reading of ordinance to convey property to Issaqueena Mills, LLC (6-0)
• Resolved that County Administrator Mr. Roper meets Council expectations (6-0)

Mid Month Meeting

The Committee of the Whole will meet to discuss Log No. 141 regarding UDSO. The meeting is scheduled for November 28, 2023.

• Discussion of Log No. 141 – UDSO

The Committee of the Whole approved several amendments to the Developmental Standards Ordinance (UDSO), including zone map changes and setback requirements. Council also voted to request a 180-day annexation moratorium from municipalities.

• Approved return to 5-zone area map (5-1)
• Changed Pickens three-finger area to Appalachian Heritage Area (4-1-1)
• Adopted Appalachian and Agricultural Heritage matrix excluding storm water and impact fee columns (6-0)
• Adopted Natural Heritage, Community Center, and Gateway Corridor areas on the matrix (4-2)
• Changed Gateway Corridor Area in Easley near Burdine Springs to Community Center Area (6-0)
• Designated 1 mile on both sides of Hwy 8, south of Hwy 135, as Natural Heritage Area (6-0)
• Approved residential setback changes to 20 feet for arterial, collector, and other streets (4-2)
• Approved resolution to call for 180-day municipal annexation moratorium (6-0)

Mid Month Meeting

The Pickens County Committee of the Whole will meet to discuss two specific log items. The meeting is focused on the council Facebook page and UDSO.

• Log No. 223 – COUNCIL FACEBOOK PAGE
• Log No. 141 – UDSO

The Committee of the Whole approved several development standards, including minimum lot sizes and townhome density in the gateway corridor. The committee also referred impact fee estimates to the Planning Commission and adopted a staff map proposal.

• Sent impact fee estimates to Planning Commission for consideration (5-1)
• Adopted staff map proposal and overdevelopment risk area (5-1)
• Approved minimum lot size of 1/2 acre in each zone (4-2)
• Approved townhome density of 20 dwellings per acre with 20% open space in the gateway corridor (4-2)
• Approved minimum 40-foot parking setback for all except multi-family homes (5-1)

Pickens County Council

Pickens County Council will consider the approval of a Solid Waste Management Plan and the allocation of $1,976,540.15 for a compactor and dozer. The body will also hold a second reading for the Unified Development Standard Ordinance and an ordinance to delay the 2024 reassessment process.

• Purchase of one compactor and one dozer for $1,976,540.15
• Second reading of the Unified Development Standard Ordinance
• Second reading of an ordinance delaying the 2024 reassessment process
• Approval of Solid Waste Management Plan
• Resolution 2023-30 in recognition of Family Court Awareness Month

The Pickens County Council approved the purchase of a compactor and dozer for the Solid Waste Department and passed a second reading of an ordinance to delay the 2024 tax reassessment process. Council also adopted two resolutions honoring Family Court Awareness Month and Veterans Day. Additionally, the Council discussed various development standards under the Unified Development Standards Ordinance (UDSO) before voting to recommit those items to the Committee of the Whole.

• Approved $1,976,540.15 for solid waste equipment (5-1)
• Approved Solid Waste Management Plan (5-1)
• Approved Resolution 2023-30 for Family Court Awareness Month (6-0)
• Approved Resolution 2023-31 for Veterans Day (6-0)
• Approved second reading of tax reassessment delay ordinance (4-2)
• Recommitted UDSO ordinance items to Committee of the Whole (6-0)
• Approved consent agenda (6-0)

Pickens County Council

The Committee of the Whole will discuss an animal control ordinance and a UDSO item. This meeting is scheduled for October 16, 2023, at 6:00 PM in the Main Conference Room.

• Log No. 222 – Animal Control Ordinance
• Log No. 141 – UDSO

The Committee of the Whole approved several modifications to the UDSO, including new limits on subdivision sizes and RV parks. The council also adopted updated definitions for tiny homes and townhouses and approved a new traffic study policy.

• Limited conventional subdivisions to 10 lots county-wide (6-0)
• Approved including an impact fee chart in the UDSO upon study completion (5-1)
• Updated open space subdivision density based on Land Use Map Area (5-1)
• Updated UDSO to include RV as a dwelling unit (4-2)
• Set RV park minimums to 5 acres in all zones and maximum 10 acres in heritage zones (6-0)
• Approved developmental area map as a guideline for development locations (5-1)
• Required pervious surfaces for parking spaces exceeding 110% of minimum (5-1)
• Adopted traffic study policy (6-0)

Mid Month Meeting

The Committee of the Whole will meet on October 16, 2023, to discuss specific agenda items. The meeting includes discussions regarding an animal control ordinance and UDSO.

• Log No. 222 – Animal Control Ordinance
• Log No. 141 – UDSO

The Committee of the Whole approved several modifications to the Unified Development Standards Ordinance (UDSO), including new limits on subdivision sizes and RV parks. The committee also adopted updated definitions for tiny homes and townhouses and approved a new traffic study policy.

• Limited conventional subdivisions to 10 lots county-wide (6-0)
• Approved including an impact fee chart in UDSO upon study completion (5-1)
• Updated open space subdivision density based on Land Use Map Area (5-1)
• Updated UDSO to include RV as a dwelling unit (4-2)
• Set RV park minimums to 5 acres in all zones and maximum 10 acres in heritage zones (6-0)
• Approved developmental area map as a guideline for development locations (5-1)
• Required parking spaces over 110% of minimum to be pervious surface (5-1)
• Adopted traffic study policy (6-0)

Pickens County Council

The Pickens County Council will discuss a joint industrial and business park located in Oconee County. The body is also considering an ordinance to delay the 2024 reassessment process.

• Third reading of Ordinance No. 627 for a joint industrial and business park in Oconee County
• First reading of an ordinance to delay the 2024 reassessment process
• Motion to extend a moratorium for 90 days regarding Log No. 141 – UDSO
• Resolution 2023-27 regarding reimbursement for Commerce Park expenses
• Discussion on staff solutions and funding for county email issues

Council approved a 90-day extension of the UDSO moratorium and passed the first reading of an ordinance to delay the 2024 reassessment process. Other actions included approving a joint industrial park with Ocone County and funding a historical marker.

• Approved first reading of ordinance to delay 2024 reassessment (5-1)
• Extended UDSO moratorium for 90 days (6-0)
• Approved Resolution 2023-27 for Commerce Park expense reimbursement (6-0)
• Approved Resolution 2023-28 recognizing Mobile Integrated Healthcare Week (6-0)
• Approved ordinance for joint industrial and business park with Oconee County (6-0)
• Approved commissioning of three County Code and Environmental Officers (6-0)
• Approved funding for Microsoft Office 365 transition for county email (6-0)
• Approved ATAX funding for half of a $5,555 historical marker (6-0)

Mid Month Meeting

The Committee of the Whole will meet to discuss Log No. 221 regarding reassessment and Log No. 141 regarding UDSO. The meeting is scheduled for 6:00 PM at the County Administration Facility.

• Log No. 221 – REASSESSMENT
• Log No. 141 – UDSO

The Committee of the Whole voted to extend a moratorium for 90 days and remove common roads from current UDSO discussions. The committee also moved a proposal to push back reassessment for one year to first reading.

• Moved reassessment delay proposal out of Committee for First Reading in Title Only (4-1)
• Approved removing common roads from UDSO ordinance and discussion for the time being (5-0)
• Approved 90-day extension of the moratorium (5-0)

Pickens County Council

The Council will hold a public hearing to establish the annual millage rate for the 2023-2024 fiscal year. Members will also consider a joint industrial and business park agreement with Oconee County.

• Public hearing to establish annual millage rate for fiscal year July 1, 2023 to June 30, 2024
• Second reading of Ordinance No. 627 regarding a joint industrial and business park with Oconee County
• Resolution 2023-25 regarding public safety agency mandates for Environmental Enforcement and E-911 departments
• Proposal for Cateechee Point project completion and additional parks needs
• Motion to hire a stormwater technical details study (Log No. 141)

Pickens County Council approved $284,000 in Local ATAX funds for several park projects. The council also authorized a storm water technical study and moved forward with a joint industrial park agreement with Oconee County.

• Approved $284,000 for Cateechee Point, Mile Creek Park, Equoni Point, Airport Playground, and Museum (6-0)
• Approved hiring a study for storm water technical details (6-0)
• Approved second reading of Ordinance No. 627 for a joint industrial and business park with Oconee County (6-0)
• Approved Resolution 2023-25 regarding Environmental Enforcement and E-911 departments (5-1)
• Approved first reading of Resolution 2023-26 proclaiming September 2023 as National Suicide Prevention Month (6-0)
• Approved nomination of Kasey Swords to the First Steps Board (6-0)
• Approved motion to move reassessment year forward by one year (4-2)
• Approved August 7, 2023 minutes and August 21 and 31 Committee of the Whole reports (6-0)

Mid Month Meeting

The Pickens County Committee of the Whole is meeting to discuss Log No. 141 – UDSO. The discussion will focus on an overview, housing, and density.

• Discussion of Log No. 141 – UDSO regarding housing and density

The Committee of the Whole met to discuss the UDSO, attainable housing programs, tax abatement policies, and parcel density maps. No actions were taken or decisions made during the meeting.

• No action taken regarding UDSO, housing, or density discussions
• Adjourned meeting (6-0)

Pickens County Council

The Pickens County Council Committee of the Whole will meet to review Log No. 141 – UDSO. The discussion will focus on an overview of the item, housing, and density.

• Review of Log No. 141 – UDSO regarding housing and density

The Committee of the Whole met to discuss the Unified Development Ordinance (UDSO), including attainable housing, tax abatement policies, and parcel density maps. No substantive actions or decisions were taken during the meeting.

• No action taken on UDSO, housing, density, or subdivision discussions

Mid Month Meeting

The Pickens County Committee of the Whole will meet to review Log No. 141 – UDSO. The discussion will cover infrastructure, housing, density, and environmental impacts.

• Review of Log No. 141 – UDSO regarding infrastructure, quality, waterways, trees, housing, and density

The Committee of the Whole discussed various updates to the Unified Development Standards Ordinance (UDSO), including impact fees, road standards, and property maintenance codes. The only formal action taken was the approval of a technical study for storm water.

• Approved hiring a study for storm water technical details (6-0)

Pickens County Council

The Pickens County Council Committee of the Whole is meeting to discuss Log No. 141 regarding the UDSO. The discussion focuses on infrastructure, housing, density, and waterways.

• Review of Log No. 141 – UDSO regarding infrastructure and quality
• Discussion on UDSO impacts on housing and density
• Review of UDSO effects on waterways and trees

The Committee of the Whole discussed various updates to the Unified Development Standards Ordinance (UDSO), including impact fees, road standards, and property maintenance codes. The committee voted to hire a study for storm water technical details. Further discussions on housing and common drives were deferred to future meetings.

• Approved hiring a study for storm water technical details (6-0)

Pickens County Council

Pickens County Council will hold a public hearing and third reading for a bond issuance of up to $12.75 million. The body is also considering a joint industrial and business park agreement with Oconee County and updates to airport operations.

• Public hearing and third reading of Ordinance No. 626 for general obligation bonds not exceeding $12,750,000
• First reading of Ordinance No. 627 to develop a joint industrial and business park with Oconee County
• Third reading of Ordinance No. 625 regarding Pickens County Airport operations
• Proposed updates and funding for Cateechee Point Park
• Resolution declaring August 23 as C. David Stone Day

Council approved changes to its bylaws regarding alternative meeting attendance and removed term limits for officers. The council also allowed the City of Clemson to join a sewer capacity study and tabled a funding request for the City of Pickens.

• Approved allowing the City of Clemson to join the sewer capacity study (6-0)
• Approved amending bylaws to allow alternative attendance (4-2)
• Removed rule prohibiting officers from serving more than two consecutive two-year terms (5-1)
• Eliminated Section D in Rule 2.1 (5-1)
• Decided that vacancies for Chair, Vice Chair, and Vice Chair Pro-Tem will be filled by Council election (5-1)
• Tabled ATAX funding discussion for City of Pickens until committee review (6-0)
• Approved July 10 and July 17, 2023 meeting minutes (6-0)

Mid Month Meeting

The Committee of the Whole will meet to discuss several log items. The agenda includes reviews of sewer capacity, ATAX funding applications, and council rules.

• Log No. 214: Sewer capacity
• Log No. 211: 2023 ATAX funding applications
• Log No. 141: UDSO
• Log No. 215: Council rules

The Committee of the Whole approved changes to council rules regarding alternative attendance and officer term limits. Council also authorized the City of Clemson to join a sewer capacity study and allocated ATAX funding to the City of Pickens.

• Approved City of Clemson's inclusion in the sewer capacity study (6-0)
• Approved $10,100 in ATAX Funding for City of Pickens life safety, contingent on a formal application (5-1)
• Approved amendment to bylaws allowing alternative attendance (4-2)
• Approved removal of two-consecutive-term limit for officers in Rule 2.1, Section D (5-1)
• Approved that vacancies for Chair, Vice Chair, and Vice Chair Pro-Tem be filled by Council election (5-1)
• Eliminated Section D in Rule 2.1 (5-1)

Pickens County Council

The Committee of the Whole will meet to discuss several log items. The body is reviewing sewer capacity, 2023 ATAX funding applications, UDSO, and council rules.

• Log No. 214 – Sewer Capacity
• Log No. 211 – 2023 ATAX Funding Applications
• Log No. 141 – UDSO
• Log No. 215 – Council Rules

Council approved the inclusion of the City of Clemson in a sewer capacity study and amended council rules regarding attendance and officer term limits. The body also approved ATAX funding for the City of Pickens contingent on a formal application.

• Approved adding City of Clemson to the sewer capacity study (6-0)
• Approved $10,100 in ATAX Funding for City of Pickens life safety, contingent on a formal application (5-1)
• Approved amending bylaws to allow alternative attendance for members (4-2)
• Approved removing the two-consecutive-term limit for officers in Rule 2.1, Section D (5-1)
• Approved requiring an election by Council to fill vacancies for Chair, Vice Chair, and Vice Chair Pro-Tem (5-1)
• Eliminated Section D in Rule 2.1 (5-1)
• Denied amendment to bill a campaign for expenses before allocating ATAX money (1-5)

Pickens County Council

The Pickens County Council is holding a special-called meeting to conduct a second reading of Ordinance No. 626. This ordinance concerns the issuance and sale of general obligation bonds.

• Second reading of Ordinance No. 626 for general obligation bonds not exceeding $12,750,000

The Pickens County Council held a special-called meeting to address a bond ordinance. Council approved the second reading of Ordinance No. 626 regarding the issuance and sale of general obligation bonds.

• Approved second reading of Ordinance No. 626 for general obligation bonds not to exceed $12,750,000 (5-1)

Pickens County Council

Pickens County Council will discuss the issuance of general obligation bonds and membership in the American Flood Coalition. The body will also consider final approval of airport operation ordinances.

• First reading of an ordinance for general obligation bonds not to exceed $12,750,000
• Resolution to join the American Flood Coalition
• Third reading of Ordinance No. 625 regarding Pickens County Airport operations
• Review of 2023 Recreation and ATAX funding applications
• Proposed changes to the Pickens County Solid Waste Management Plan

Pickens County Council approved recreation funding for the City of Pickens and Dacusville Recreation. The Council also approved 15 ATAX funding requests totaling $155,474 and updated the ATAX application deadline process.

• Approved $50,000 recreation funding for JC Park in the City of Pickens (6-0)
• Approved $58,194.69 recreation funding for Dacusville Recreation (6-0)
• Approved 15 ATAX funding requests totaling $155,474 (6-0)
• Approved $7,408 ATAX funding for Pickens View Wesleyan Church Live Nativity (5-0)
• Set aside $7,000 ATAX funding for City of Pickens Independence Day event pending legal research (6-0)
• Approved allowing ATAX applications after the deadline if submitted by October 1st (6-0)
• Approved moving boards and commissions discussion out of executive session (6-0)
• Tabled resolution to join American Flood Coalition to Committee of the Whole (4-2)

Pickens County Council

The Council is holding a special-called meeting to conduct third readings of two ordinances. These items involve budget changes for the 2022-2023 fiscal year and the levy of taxes for the 2023-2024 fiscal year.

• Ordinance No. 623: Budget amendment for revenue and expenditure changes (FY 2022-2023)
• Ordinance No. 624: Levy of taxes for ordinary county purposes (FY 2023-2024)

Council approved Ordinance 624 to levy taxes for the 2023-2024 fiscal year and Ordinance 623 for budget amendments to the 2022-2023 fiscal year. Key decisions included funding for a new school resource officer and technical college budget increases. A proposal for a one-time taxpayer refund was withdrawn for further research.

• Approved FY 2022-2023 budget amendments including airport repairs, legal fees, and feasibility studies (4-1)
• Approved FY 2023-2024 tax levy and budget (Ordinance 624) (4-2)
• Approved $2,500 for Soil and Water Conservation District public education (4-2)
• Approved $61,500 budget increase for Tri-County Technical College (6-0)
• Approved $80,000 for an additional School Resource Officer and $60,000 for a vehicle (6-0)
• Approved reducing Public Service Commission budget by $1,290,000 to use ARPA funding for treatment plant projects (6-0)
• Approved $2.5 million library capital expenditure line item and loan up to $1 million from General Fund with County oversight (4-2)
• Denied motion to roll back millage by 2.5 mils (3-3)

Pickens County Council

The Committee of the Whole will meet to discuss council rules and funding applications. The body is reviewing requests for 2023 recreation and ATAX funding.

• Log No. 210: 2023 Recreation funding applications
• Log No. 211: 2023 ATAX funding applications
• Log No. 215: Council rules

The Committee of the Whole approved recreation funding for the City of Pickens and Dacusville Recreation. Council also approved several ATAX funding requests and established a new October 1st deadline for ATAX applications.

• Approved $50,000 in recreation funding for JC Park in the City of Pickens (6-0)
• Approved $58,194.69 in recreation funding for Dacusville Recreation (6-0)
• Approved $7,408 in ATAX funding for Pickens View Wesleyan Church Live Nativity event (5-0)
• Approved ATAX funding for 15 organizations totaling $155,474.00
• Set aside $7,000 for City of Pickens Independence Day event pending legal research on campaign laws (6-0)
• Approved rule allowing ATAX applications after the deadline if submitted and approved by October 1st (6-0)
• Moved Council Rules (Log No. 215) to the next meeting (5-0)

Pickens County Council

The Pickens County Council will discuss funding for a radio system and a potential emergency logistics center. The meeting includes public hearings on a budget amendment and the 2023-2024 tax levy.

• Motion to allocate $10,366,737 of ARPA funding for the County Radio System
• Public hearing for Ordinance No. 624 regarding the levy of taxes for fiscal year 2023-2024
• Public hearing for Ordinance No. 623 regarding a budget amendment for fiscal year 2022-2023
• Third reading of Ordinance No. 625 regarding Pickens County Airport operations
• Resolution 2023-23 to adopt the Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan

Council approved the allocation of ARPA funding for a new radio system to replace antiquated technology and improve coverage. The body also updated organizational rules regarding board member resignations and adopted a hazard mitigation plan.

• Allocated $10,366,737 of ARPA Funding for the County Radio System (6-0)
• Approved Resolution 2023-23 adopting the Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan (6-0)
• Removed Section 7:2 (a)(8) of Organizational Rules requiring board/commission members to resign before filing for elective office (6-0)
• Approved minutes from May 1, May 8, and May 22, 2023 meetings (6-0)
• Tabled discussion on amending Rule 2.1 regarding officer term limits (6-0)

Pickens County Council

The Pickens County Council is meeting for a work session to discuss the Fiscal Year 2023-2024 budget.

• Budget discussion for Fiscal Year 2023-2024

The Council met for a work session to discuss the proposed FY 2023-2024 budget. The session included presentations from the Soil and Water Conservation Board and the Public Service Commission. No formal votes were taken on budget items during this session.

• Tabled discussion of Recreation Funding Applications to the June 5th Council Meeting
• Adjourned meeting (6-0)

Pickens County Council

The Committee of the Whole will meet to discuss several log items. The agenda includes reviews of the Pickens County Water Authority and the county radio system.

• Log No. 213 – Pickens County Water Authority
• Log No. 80 – County Radio System
• Log No. 177 – American Rescue Act Funding
• Log No. 215 – Council Rules

The Committee of the Whole approved funding for a new radio system to replace antiquated technology and improve coverage. Council also voted to change organizational rules regarding board member candidacies. No action was taken on the Lake Keowee water treatment project or general ARPA funding requests.

• Allocated $10,366,737 of ARPA Funding towards the County Radio System (6-0)
• Removed Section 7:2 (a)(8) of Council Organizational Rules requiring board or commission members to resign before filing for elective office (6-0)

Mid Month Meeting

The Committee of the Whole will meet to discuss several log items. The agenda includes reviews of the county radio system and water authority.

• Log No. 213 – Pickens County Water Authority
• Log No. 80 – County Radio System
• Log No. 177 – American Rescue Act Funding
• Log No. 215 – Council Rules

The Committee of the Whole approved a multi-million dollar funding allocation for emergency communications and amended council organizational rules. Other items regarding water treatment and general ARPA funding were discussed but no action was taken.

• Allocated $10,366,737 of ARPA Funding towards the County Radio System (6-0)
• Removed Section 7:2 (a)(8) of Council Organizational Rules requiring board or commission members to resign before filing for elective office (6-0)

Pickens County Council

The Pickens County Council is meeting for a work session to discuss the budget for Fiscal Year 2023-2024.

• Budget discussion for Fiscal Year 2023-2024

The Council conducted a budget work session focusing on the library system, including building maintenance and fund balances. No substantive budget decisions were made, as motions regarding library board updates and millage conversion were withdrawn.

• Tabled discussion on library millage conversion until the third reading of the budget
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

Pickens County Council

The Pickens County Council will discuss a first-reading ordinance for a joint industrial and business park located in Oconee County. The body is also reviewing budget amendments and tax levies for the upcoming fiscal year.

• First reading of an ordinance to develop a joint industrial and business park with Oconee County
• Second reading of Ordinance No. 623 for a budget amendment for FY 2022-2023
• Second reading of Ordinance No. 624 regarding the levy of taxes for FY 2023-2024
• Second reading of Ordinance No. 625 regarding Pickens County Airport operations
• Proposed amendments to the Unified Development Standards Ordinance regarding growth and subdivisions

Council approved minutes from four April meetings, including an amendment to the April 26 minutes containing comments from Councilwoman Linvill regarding a tax agreement with FN America. The council also voted to move a proposal regarding ultralight operations at the County Airport out of committee.

• Approved minutes for April 3, 17, 24, and 26 meetings (4-2)
• Approved amendment to April 26 minutes adding Councilwoman Linvill's comments on FN America tax incentives (4-2)
• Approved motion to move Log No. 212 regarding County Airport ultralight operations out of committee (5-0)
• Approved 15-minute extension of Public Forum (6-0)

Pickens County Council

The Pickens County Council is holding a special-called meeting to conduct a public hearing and third reading of Ordinance No. 621. This ordinance concerns a fee-in-lieu-of-tax and incentive agreement with a company identified as Project Sierra Foxtrot.

• Public hearing and third reading of Ordinance No. 621 regarding fee-in-lieu-of-tax and incentive agreement for Project Sierra Foxtrot
• Proposed conveyance of property and reimbursement of costs to Project Sierra Foxtrot
• Proposed availability of multi-county industrial or business park benefits to the project

Council appointed Jackie Soladay to the Restaurant seat of the ATAX Committee. The meeting also included presentations on Budget Amendment Ordinances No. 623 and No. 624, though no formal votes on these ordinances were recorded.

• Approved March 13, 2023 Special-Called Council Meeting minutes (4-0)
• Appointed Jackie Soladay to the ATAX Committee Restaurant seat (5-0)

Pickens County Council

The Pickens County Council is meeting for a work session to discuss the budget for Fiscal Year 2023-2024.

• Budget discussion for Fiscal Year 2023-2024

The Council met for a budget work session to discuss various proposed expenditures and staffing increases. No formal votes were taken on budget items; the session served as a discussion of proposed costs and requests.

• Adjourned meeting (6-0)

Mid Month Meeting

The Pickens County Committee of the Whole will meet on April 17, 2023. The agenda includes a discussion regarding amendments to Chapter 6 of the Pickens County Code of Ordinances concerning Pickens County Airport operations. The meeting also includes an item regarding UDSO.

• Discussion on amendments to Chapter 6 of the Pickens County Code of Ordinances regarding Pickens County Airport operations
• UDSO

The Committee of the Whole voted to move a proposed amendment regarding ultralight operations at the Pickens County Airport out of committee. No action was taken on the Unified Development Ordinance (UDSO) following discussions on growth and housing.

• Moved amendments to Chapter 6 of the County Code regarding airport ultralight operations out of committee (5-0)
• No action taken on UDSO Log No. 141

Pickens County Council

The Pickens County Council is holding a special-called meeting to discuss the Budget Amendment Ordinance No. 623 and the FY 2024 Budget Ordinance No. 624. The meeting includes an executive session regarding the ATAX Committee.

• Overview of Budget Amendment Ordinance No. 623
• Overview of FY 2024 Budget Ordinance No. 624
• Executive session regarding ATAX Committee

Council appointed Jackie Soladay to the Restaurant seat of the ATAX Committee. The meeting also included detailed presentations and discussions regarding Budget Amendment Ordinances No. 623 and No. 624.

• Approved minutes from March 13, 2023 Special-Called Council Meeting (4-0)
• Appointed Jackie Soladay to the ATAX Committee Restaurant seat (5-0)

Pickens County Council

The Pickens County Committee of the Whole will meet to discuss specific items. The agenda includes a review of amendments to the county code regarding airport operations.

• Discussion on amendments to Chapter 6 of the Pickens County Code of Ordinances regarding Pickens County Airport operations (Log No. 212)
• Discussion on UDSO (Log No. 141)

The Committee of the Whole discussed revising the County Code to allow off-runway ultralight operations at the Pickens County Airport to protect federal funding and NPIAS status. The committee voted to move the item out of committee. No action was taken regarding the Unified Development Ordinance (UDSO).

• Moved amendments to Chapter 6 of the Pickens County Code of Ordinances regarding airport operations out of committee (5-0)

Pickens County Council

The Pickens County Council will discuss a moratorium on residential development and subdivision plans. The body is also reviewing budget amendments, tax levies for the 2023-2024 fiscal year, and an incentive agreement for Project Sierra Foxtrot.

• Ordinance 622: Proposed six-month moratorium on residential land use, development, or subdivision concept plans
• Ordinance 624: Proposed levy of taxes for ordinary county purposes for fiscal year 2023-2024
• Ordinance 621: Second reading of fee-in-lieu-of-tax and incentive agreement for Project Sierra Foxtrot
• Ordinance 623: Proposed budget amendment for fiscal year ending June 30, 2023
• Amendments to Chapter 6 of the County Code regarding Pickens County Airport operations

Pickens County Council approved a six-month moratorium on residential land use, development, or subdivision concept plans. The council also advanced several ordinances regarding budget amendments, tax levies, and airport operations to first or second reading.

• Approved six-month moratorium on residential land use and subdivision applications (5-0)
• Approved 2023 Recreation and Accommodations Tax funding applications (5-0)
• Approved first reading of Ordinance 623 for budget amendments (3-2)
• Approved first reading of Ordinance 624 for 2023-2024 tax levy (5-0)
• Approved first reading of airport operations amendments and referral to Committee of the Whole (5-0)
• Approved second reading of fee-in-lieu-of-tax agreement for Project Sierra Foxtrot (5-0)
• Appointed Danny McCullen to the Beautification Committee (6-0)
• Approved resolutions for National Telecommunicators Week, Fair Housing Awareness Month, and a debt collection agreement (5-0 each)

Pickens County Council

The Pickens County Committee of the Whole will meet to discuss one specific item. The agenda lists a single topic for consideration under the Committee of the Whole section.

• Log No. 141 – UDSO

The Committee of the Whole discussed potential updates to the Unified Development Standards Ordinance (UDSO). No formal actions or decisions were taken regarding the ordinance or the discussed topics.

• No action taken on Unified Development Standards Ordinance (UDSO)

Pickens County Council

The Pickens County Council is holding a special-called meeting to conduct a second reading of an ordinance. The proposed ordinance would implement a six-month moratorium on accepting applications for residential land use, development, or subdivision concept plans.

• Second reading of an ordinance for a six-month moratorium on residential land use, development, or subdivision concept plans

Pickens County Council held a special-called session to conduct a second reading of an ordinance. The council approved a six-month moratorium on accepting applications for residential land use, development, or subdivision concept plans.

• Approved six-month moratorium on residential land use, development, or subdivision concept plan applications (4-0)

Mid Month Meeting

The Pickens County Committee of the Whole will meet to discuss Log No. 141 – UDSO. The meeting is scheduled for March 13, 2023.

• Discussion of Log No. 141 – UDSO

The Committee of the Whole held a detailed discussion with planning staff regarding the Unified Development Standards Ordinance (UDSO). No actions were taken on the items discussed.

• No action taken on UDSO discussion

Pickens County Council

The Pickens County Council will discuss infrastructure improvements and waste management. The body is reviewing a proposal for state funding for SC Hwy 183 and a motion regarding landfill equipment and expansion.

• Motion to expand the landfill piggyback and purchase an excavator for $142,000
• Proposed application to the State Transportation and Infrastructure Bank for SC Hwy 183 improvements
• Discussion of flooring replacement at the Pickens County Museum
• Resolution 2023-07 congratulating Liberty High School’s wrestling team
• Resolution 2023-08 commemorating Bleeding Disorders Awareness Month

Pickens County Council approved the expansion of the landfill piggyback and the purchase of an excavator. The council also authorized a funding application for SC Highway 183 improvements and allocated funds for museum renovations.

• Approved landfill piggyback expansion and $142,000 excavator purchase (4-2)
• Approved application to State Transportation and Infrastructure Bank for SC Highway 183 improvements (5-1)
• Allocated $15,000 from Local Accommodations Fee for Pickens County Museum flooring and display rails (6-0)
• Approved Resolution 2023-07 congratulating Liberty High School Wrestling Team (6-0)
• Approved Resolution 2023-08 commemorating Bleeding Disorders Awareness Month (6-0)
• Appointed George Ramos to the Beautification Committee (6-0)
• Appointed Jarred Brink to the Recreation Funding Advisory Board (6-0)
• Approved Inducement Resolution for Project Sierra Foxtrot (5-0, 1 abstention)

Pickens County Council

The Pickens County Committee of the Whole will meet to discuss two specific log items. The session is focused on reviewing solid waste needs and the UDSO.

• Log No. 133 – Solid Waste Needs
• Log No. 141 – UDSO

The Committee of the Whole approved the expansion of the landfill piggyback and the purchase of an excavator. No action was taken regarding the Unified Development Standards Ordinance after a discussion on land use and growth.

• Approved landfill piggyback expansion and $142,000 excavator purchase (4-2)

Mid Month Meeting

The Pickens County Committee of the Whole will meet to discuss two specific log items. The agenda focuses on solid waste needs and UDSO.

• Log No. 133 – Solid Waste Needs
• Log No. 141 – UDSO

The Committee of the Whole approved a motion to expand the landfill piggyback and purchase an excavator. The committee also discussed the Unified Development Standards Ordinance, but no action was taken on that item.

• Approved landfill piggyback expansion and $142,000 excavator purchase (4-2)

Pickens County Council

The Pickens County Council will discuss a proposed fiscal year 2024 budget calendar and a moratorium on residential subdivisions not yet approved. The meeting includes reports on updating the Unified Development Standards Ordinance (UDSO) and discussions regarding administration building upgrades.

• Proposed 6-month moratorium (with optional 90-day extension) on residential subdivisions not yet approved
• Resolution 2023-06 establishing the proposed Fiscal Year 2024 budget calendar
• Discussion on county administration roof solutions
• Consideration of technology and transparency upgrades in the administration building
• Executive session regarding Project Charlie Echo and the Administrator's Contract

Pickens County Council established a 6-month moratorium on developments exceeding 49 housing units to allow for UDSO recommendations. The Council also approved a special tax assessment for the Arial Mill/Bailey Bill project and allocated funds for administration building repairs.

• Approved 6-month moratorium on developments over 49 housing units (6-0)
• Approved First Reading in Title Only to amend the UDSO (6-0)
• Allocated $20,000 from fund balance for administration roof engineering and legal action (6-0)
• Accepted grant funding for administration building technology and security upgrades (6-0)
• Appointed Britt Gillespie to the ACOG Board (6-0)
• Allocated $1.5 million to Site A1 cross litigation from previous funds (6-0)
• Approved Administrator’s Contract (5-1)
• Approved 15-year special tax assessment for Arial Mill/Bailey Bill project (4-2)

Pickens County Council

The Pickens County Council is holding a work session to discuss the Development Standard Ordinance. No other items are listed for decision or discussion.

• Discussion on Development Standard Ordinance

General

The Committee of the Whole is meeting to discuss one specific item identified as Log No. 141 - UDSO. The remainder of the agenda is procedural.

• Discussion of Log No. 141 - UDSO

The Committee of the Whole discussed various sections of the Unified Development Standards Ordinance (UDSO). Council approved a moratorium and a first reading in title only to amend the UDSO.

• Approved 6-month Moratorium on development size recommendations with a 90-day extension option (6-0)
• Approved First Reading in Title Only to amend the UDSO and return to Committee for further discussion (6-0)

Pickens County Council

The Council will discuss goals and objectives for the county. The meeting includes an executive session to discuss a personnel matter regarding the County Administrator position.

• Discussion of Council goals and objectives
• Executive session regarding the County Administrator position

The Council held a work session to discuss goals and objectives for the next fiscal year, covering topics such as infrastructure, planning, and emergency services. Following an executive session, the Council took one formal action regarding the County Administrator's employment.

• Directed Attorney to work on a draft Contract for the Administrator (6-0)

Pickens County Council

The Council is meeting to elect its leadership and establish its operational schedule for the year. This is an organizational meeting following the swearing-in ceremony.

• Election of Chair
• Election of Vice Chair
• Election of Vice Chair Pro Tempore
• Chair Appointments
• Council Meeting Schedule

The Council held an organizational meeting to elect its Chairman, Vice Chairman, and Vice Chair Pro Tempore. Chairman Chris Bowers appointed council members to the GPATS Policy Committee, ACOG Board of Directors, and Alliance Pickens Economic Development Board. The Council also established its 2023 meeting schedule.

• Elected Chris Bowers as Chairman (5-1)
• Elected Roy Costner as Vice Chairman (6-0)
• Elected Alex Saitta as Vice Chair Pro Tempore (6-0)
• Appointed C. Claiborne Linvill and Henry Wilson to GPATS Policy Committee
• Appointed Chris Bowers and Roy Costner to ACOG Board of Directors
• Appointed Chris Lollis and Alex Saitta to Alliance Pickens Economic Development Board
• Scheduled Council Meetings for the first Monday of the month at 6:30 p.m.
• Scheduled Committee of the Whole meetings for the third Monday of the month at 6:00 p.m.