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At a glance: Bluffton council votes — zoning, code amendments, contract and consent agenda
Summary
Council approved final readings and motions on property‑specific zoning and comprehensive plan amendments, code updates to soliciting/mobile vending and short‑term rental chapters, awarded a construction contract to Atlantic Asphalt for ADA curb‑ramp improvements ($123,168.97), and approved the consent agenda; votes were unanimous unless noted.
The Town Council took several formal votes during its December meeting. Below are the key outcomes and immediate implications.
Property ordinances (final reading) - Approved comprehensive plan amendment and zoning map amendment for properties owned by Rose Kitty and Ferrell Gas on Buck Island Road (second and final reading). No changes were made from first reading; public hearing produced no opposing comments.
Code amendments (final reading) - Adopted amendments to chapter 6 (business regulations) article 3 concerning soliciting and mobile vending (fees, approvals, fire‑safety, penalties). - Adopted amendments to chapter 6 article 5 addressing short‑term rental units (applications and violations). Staff reported no changes from first readings on both items.
Contract award - Authorized the town manager to enter a construction contract with Atlantic Asphalt for Phase 2 of the pathway/pedestrian safety improvements (ADA curb ramps and detectable warning surfaces) for a fiscal impact of $123,168.97 (includes 20% contingency); tentative construction window Feb–Mar.
Consent agenda - Approved the consent agenda items unanimously and adjourned.
Procedure and votes All motions for the items listed were moved, seconded and approved; the record shows unanimous votes on final readings and contract authorization. Several council members asked clarifying questions about contingency percentage (staff confirmed 20% contingency was adopted in recent years due to cost increases), and members reiterated support for ADA improvements and ongoing infrastructure investment.
What’s next The adopted ordinances and contract procurements will be recorded and executed per staff recommendations. The Atlantic Asphalt contract will proceed to a pre‑construction meeting and notice to proceed in January, with construction planned for early next year.
