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Commission disapproves proposed 3,145‑sq‑ft house in 10 Mile Community historic district
Summary
Charleston County Historic Preservation Commission voted to disapprove a certificate of historic appropriateness for a 3,145‑square‑foot house proposed at 969 Bellas Lane in the 10 Mile Community after commissioners voiced concerns about roof form, massing and lot configuration.
The Charleston County Historic Preservation Commission on July 16, 2025 voted to disapprove a certificate of historic appropriateness for a proposed two‑story, 3,145‑square‑foot single‑family home with attached garage at 969 Bellas Lane in the 10 Mile Community Historic District.
Monica Eustace, presenting for county staff, said the 10 Mile Community—recognized as a remnant freedmen community—has received 32 CHA applications since district designation. The subject parcel is zoned special management S‑3, in an AE flood zone, and is undeveloped. Staff noted neighboring recently approved homes in the area ranged from about 1,074 to more than 3,900 square feet and recommended approval, saying the proposed size is consistent with recent developments even though the proposed roof form (a steeply pitched front gable and a saltbox‑style roof) and massing differ from many nearby structures.
During public comment the builder, Bill Brodsky, said the lot configuration is from a 1995 subdivision and that he worked with staff to keep design differences and palette in mind; he noted the proposed house would be only about 600 square feet larger than an adjacent approved 2,555‑square‑foot house. Several members of the 10 Mile community, and a petition, registered opposition focused on the lot’s narrowness, the proposed roofline and the overall compatibility of the massing with surrounding homes.
After discussion about roof pitch, lot shape and visual compatibility, a motion to disapprove the CHA carried. Commissioners who spoke in favor of disapproval cited the steep pitch and saltbox roof as out of character for that immediate area and said the lot’s depth and narrowness limited how the house would sit in context. The commission recorded public opposition comments and a petition; staff said the application had received multiple written objections and a petition with signatures.
Per county procedure, the commission’s disapproval is a final action of the Charleston County Historic Preservation Commission; staff reminded the public that anyone with substantial interest may appeal to the Circuit Court of Charleston County within 30 calendar days.
