Summerville Council votes to postpone Dorchester County annexation zoning decision

A proposal to rezone nearly 32 acres in Dorchester County for multifamily residential development is set to be postponed as the applicant awaits a crucial traffic impact analysis. During the Standing Committees Meeting on May 5, 2025, the Planning and Development Committee discussed the annexation of four parcels currently zoned for single-family homes, located at Jasmine Drive and Lincolnville Road.

The Planning Commission previously held a public hearing on this matter, but their recommendation for approval failed with a 2-4 vote. Concerns about traffic were highlighted as a significant issue, prompting the applicant to request a delay until the traffic study is completed. Committee members expressed support for this postponement, with a motion made and seconded to allow time for the analysis, which is expected to be ready by next month.

In a related discussion, committee members raised questions about the implications of the proposed zoning change. Specifically, they inquired whether the developer could alter plans from townhouses to other types of housing once the multifamily zoning is approved. This uncertainty underscores the complexities surrounding zoning regulations and future development in the area.

The committee's decision to postpone the discussion reflects a commitment to thorough review and community input before moving forward with significant changes to land use in Summerville. The next steps will depend on the timely completion of the traffic study, which will inform future decisions on this development proposal.