Parks committee votes to prohibit overnight camping after state citation, citing water‑access rule and tight budget

Richland County parks staff told the Parks Committee the county received a state citation that raised three concerns: missing signage for campsites, a directional sign for public telephone, and a requirement that water access be within 400 feet of campsites under state standards. Staff said remote areas that lack water access would not meet that standard, constraining overnight camping in some park locations.

Speaker 1 summarized the financial constraints: the parks budget for 2026 is $38,507.47, with about $15,000 available for repairs and maintenance — funds that must cover porta‑john rentals, mowing, and basic upkeep. Committee members said limited staff and funding make managing campgrounds difficult, noting problems such as squatters, honor‑system payments and frequent technician travel to check sites.

Given the citation and the county's limited capacity, Speaker 3 moved to prohibit all camping at county parks; Speaker 2 seconded the motion. The committee approved the motion by voice vote and instructed staff to draft the day‑use/no‑camping language as part of the parks ordinance rewrite so the policy can be reviewed by Public Works and the full county board.

Members discussed exceptions and practical enforcement questions (primitive camping, Viola and Rockbridge park layouts) and acknowledged state rules limit options for primitive camping without water access. The committee emphasized the item is advisory and that final ordinance language will be adopted by the county board.