Charleston planning commission deadlocks on Johns Island rezoning after heavy public opposition

The Charleston County Planning Commission failed to produce a recommendation July 14 on a request to amend comprehensive plan and ZLDR maps to change a 2.39-acre parcel on Johns Island from limited commercial to mixed use. Staff presenter Wynn told the commission staff recommends approval, saying the change would allow higher-density commercial and residential uses and noted that mixed-use zoning permits multifamily, hotel, parking structures and other uses. "Staff recommends approval," Wynn said. The applicant, Philip Simmons, said his family has owned property on Johns Island for nearly 90 years and described the rezoning request as giving the family "flexibility" to consider small storefronts and housing near a future hospital. "Our whole goal ... is we're trying to get in front of the development so we have some flexibility," Simmons said. Public commenters urged denial. Peter Rubino, speaking on behalf of the Johns Island Task Force and the Johns Island Council, warned the area’s roads are at or below acceptable service levels and said: "We cannot support additional residential development…