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Kershaw County Council approves first reading to require fire hydrants for minor subdivisions after contested debate
Summary
After extended discussion about costs and administrative burdens, Kershaw County Council voted 3-2 to approve first reading of an ordinance that would require installation of fire hydrants for minor subdivisions where existing public water infrastructure can sustain fire flow.
Kershaw County Council voted 3-2 on April 22 to approve the first reading of an ordinance that would require developers to install fire hydrants for minor subdivisions when existing public water infrastructure can sustain the necessary fire flow.
Proponents said the change is aimed at improving fire protection in developing areas; opponents warned it could burden small local builders and create administrative complexity. The ordinance will return for a second reading and any additional amendments before final adoption.
Councilman Shumate proposed the reading and led off supporters’ arguments, saying the county ultimately pays more when neighborhoods lack adequate water for firefighting. “I think it's necessary, and the reality is we end up having to pay these prices down the road if we don't have adequate fire systems,” he said…
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