The Aiken City Council meeting on September 22, 2025, featured a significant discussion regarding land use and preservation in the East Side of Aiken. Linda Murphy, an attorney and local resident, urged the council to divest and de-annex a 10-foot strip of unbuildable land that was previously annexed in 2020.

Murphy emphasized the importance of the East Side as the last remaining agricultural area supporting Aiken's equine industry, which she described as a vital part of the city's identity and economy. She highlighted the negative impacts of urban sprawl, noting that high-density developments already exist to the north, west, and south of the area. Murphy called for the council to maintain the East Side's low-density and agricultural character, arguing that the small parcel of land should not serve as a loophole for further annexation.

She expressed hope that at least one more council member would support her request to preserve the East Side, reinforcing the community's desire to keep the area bridal and protect its unique equestrian heritage.

The meeting also included comments from Maggie Chapman, a resident who will be affected by future annexation as her neighborhood, The Sanctuary, is completed. The discussions reflect ongoing concerns about land use and development in Aiken, with community members advocating for the preservation of agricultural spaces in the face of urban expansion.

As the council considers these requests, the outcome could significantly impact the future landscape and character of Aiken.