In a recent government meeting, Chris McDougall of Ploughmont LLC and property owner Paul D. McDougall of Equisentum LLC presented a request for a variance to encroach on the protective root zones of nine grand trees for a proposed dog daycare boarding and training facility at 1575 Folly Road, James Island. The property, currently a residence, spans 2.18 acres and is located within the Folly Road corridor overlay community commercial zoning district.

The proposal includes renovations to the existing residence, a new kennel building, and a parking area for 16 vehicles, along with an ADA-compliant parking space. A concrete path is planned to connect the main building to a wider path along Folly Road, and artificial turf will be installed along the northern property line.

The variance request involves significant encroachments into the critical root zones of several grand trees, including a 24-inch Southern Magnolia and multiple live oaks, with encroachments ranging from 29% to 71%. Notably, a 41-inch live oak was permitted for removal due to being dead and diseased.

During the meeting, staff indicated that the proposal meets some of the criteria for variance approval but may require further consideration on others. The board has the option to approve, conditionally approve, or deny the request. If approved, conditions include the installation of tree barricades, hiring a certified arborist to monitor the trees during construction, and a mitigation plan for any trees that may die within three years post-construction.

The board's decision will be crucial in balancing development needs with environmental preservation, particularly concerning the grand trees that play a significant role in the local ecosystem.