Cayce council approves first reading of new ward lines amid questions about unpopulated parcels

The Cayce City Council gave first reading on Feb. 19 to ordinance 2025‑03, an update to municipal district and ward lines based on the 2020 census that staff and the South Carolina Revenue and Fiscal Affairs Office prepared. Staff said the new plan targets a population of 3,445 per district with a recommended deviation of 5 percent to equalize representation.

Council discussion focused on whether notice to affected residents should wait until questions about specific parcels are answered. A staff representative said if the map approved on first reading remains within deviation limits, the process can proceed and any changes could be made on second reading. Council member Carter questioned why two parcels on the south side of Old Taylor Road—one the speaker said belongs to Martin Marietta and one to the Department of Natural Resources—were moved out of District 4 despite being non‑buildable and therefore unlikely to add population.

Mayor Pro Tem Tim James, Council member Thomas and two other council members voted to approve first reading; the mayor voted no, saying constituents had asked for further review. The ordinance now moves toward a second reading; staff said letters to affected residents will be mailed between first and second reading and that staff will follow up on the specific parcel questions before the next session.

The council adopted a resolution in March 2023 establishing standards for redistricting and previously deferred consideration to coordinate with the November 2023 municipal elections and to ensure notice. The council deferred additional redistricting action at prior meetings and discussed timing again at this session.