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Neighbors oppose rezoning near Greenfield Estates over stormwater and wetlands concerns; council approves recommendation
Summary
Residents of Greenfield Estates urged Horry County Council to condition rezoning on full stormwater engineering review, citing downstream algae growth, blocked wetlands and potential runoff impacts; county staff said plans and permits must be submitted and the council approved the rezoning recommendation.
Residents of Greenfield Estates urged Horry County Council on Jan. 20 to withhold approval of a rezoning application until the county receives and reviews comprehensive stormwater engineering. Boggs Middleton III, president of the Greenfield Estates Homeowners Association, told council his 116-home community has experienced strained drainage and that the proposed development could increase runoff and ‘‘peak discharge’’ unless adequate detention, retention and downstream analysis are provided. "At this time, residents have not been provided with sufficient technical documentation demonstrating how the proposed development will comply with applicable county storm water ordinances and South Carolina design standards," Middleton said.
Jim Becker, treasurer of the Greenfield Estates Owners Association, said he asked an expert at a South Carolina environmental agency to review the site and received photos showing algae growth and what appears to be a downstream blockage. Becker described a 65-inch concrete pipe and wetlands that carry runoff off the neighborhood and said residents lack control over downstream conditions.
County staff member Mr. Allen (identified in the hearing) told council he has met with the developer, the town mayor and county staff and that the county requires a stormwater engineering plan be submitted and approved before any permits issue. Allen said the county and town plan to meet in early February to coordinate on the matter; he also said the developer has offered materials and equipment to assist with local work.
Despite residents' concerns, Council member Mr. Anderson moved to advance the rezoning recommendation; the council approved the motion by voice vote. The applicant was present but chose not to speak at the hearing. The council did not record any permit conditions on the record during the vote; Allen's remarks stated that formal stormwater approval remains a precondition for permits.
What happens next: staff and representatives of the Town of Aynor are scheduled to meet with county staff about the site, and any required stormwater engineering must be submitted to the county for approval before building permits can be issued.
