Berkeley County planning staff told the commission on Oct. 31 that Weston & Sampson Engineers completed a detailed audit and benchmarking report for an incremental zoning and development standards rewrite and will begin Phase 2 priority amendments in 2026.

Cole (planning staff) and Mr. Ford presented the quarterly update, saying the consultant team conducted an initial staff workshop and a zoning audit, provided a work plan and timeline, and will convene a project advisory committee in the coming quarter. Mr. Ford said Phase 2 deliverables will focus on accessory dwelling units (ADUs), buffer yard standards, conservation subdivisions and technical corrections.

"During the initial quarter ... the consultant team conducted a staff workshop to identify and discuss known deficiencies in areas of frequent concern within the current ordinance," Mr. Ford said as he outlined the audit and the planned timeline. He told commissioners that the Phase 2 items are considered foundational and priority amendments and are anticipated to be completed during 2026.

Commissioners asked what role the planning commission would have in the rewrite process and whether commissioners could participate in strategic planning or workshop meetings. One commissioner said the rewrite appeared to have "circumvented" the commission compared with prior ordinance rewrites and asked to be involved earlier in the process. Staff responded that the plan is at an early stage and that draft materials will come before the commission for review as they are prepared; attainable and diverse housing is listed in the work plan and is slated for a later phase.

Commissioners also asked whether the rewrite is intended to target a specific area for affordable housing or apply countywide; staff said they are not aware of a site-specific plan and characterized the work as countywide ordinance coordination and modernization.

No motions or formal actions were taken on the zoning rewrite update at the meeting. Staff advised the commission that additional briefings and draft amendments will be brought forward in subsequent quarters and that the commission will have opportunities to review and comment as drafts are prepared.