Public hearing held on Ladson Road rezoning; staff and planning commission recommend approval

Charleston County held a public hearing Tuesday on a rezoning request for a 7.7-acre undeveloped parcel along Ladson Road, in Council Member Pryor’s district, asking to change the zoning from Industrial to Community Commercial.

County staff presented maps, aerial photos and a land-use comparison showing the parcel outlined in blue on the county future land use map; staff said the parcel had been zoned industrial since February 2001, is undeveloped and is adjacent to properties in industrial, community commercial and general office districts. Staff said uses nearby include churches, a gas station and a fast-food restaurant.

Staff characterized the main difference between the current Industrial district and the requested Community Commercial district as removal of heavier industrial and manufacturing uses from the property’s allowed uses. Staff said the application is consistent with the comprehensive plan and recommended approval. The Planning Commission previously recommended approval by a 9–0 vote at its September meeting.

During the hearing a resident asked about the applicant’s plans; staff replied the likely intent is to combine the parcel with adjacent community-commercial property to redevelop a gas station and to secure additional land for stormwater control. Staff said there had been limited public input prior to the Planning Commission hearing and none received for the council public hearing.

No council final action on the rezoning was taken at the meeting; the item remained in the public hearing phase. Staff confirmed all required notices and signs had been posted.