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Sumter County Council approves rezoning for Patriot Parkway salon over neighbor objections
Summary
On Feb. 28, 2023, Sumter County Council granted second-reading approval to rezone 4605 Patriot Parkway from General Residential to Agricultural Conservation so the applicant can pursue a conditional-use hair salon; the vote was 5–2 after neighbors raised traffic, noise and 'spot zoning' concerns.
Sumter County Council on Feb. 28 approved second-reading of RZ-22-14, a rezoning request for 4605 Patriot Parkway that would allow LaToya P. DuBose to seek a conditional-use permit to open a small hair salon.
Planning Director Helen Roodman told council the ±1.89-acre parcel is currently zoned General Residential and would be rezoned to Agricultural Conservation, a change that would permit a salon as a conditional use subject to staff review of site access, buffering, parking, lighting and other development standards. Roodman also said the property lies within a Military Protection Zone and that the request aligns with the Sumter 2040 Comprehensive Plan.
During the public hearing, neighbors Teresa Colclough and Patricia Colclough opposed the rezoning, saying the stretch from Eagle Road has been residential for decades and warning that commercial conversion could increase traffic and noise and become 'spot zoning' that changes neighborhood character. Teresa Colclough told council it can take "approximately five minutes or more" to turn onto Patriot Parkway during busy periods.
Applicant LaToya P. DuBose said she grew up locally, is demolishing the existing double-wide manufactured home on the site, and plans to "do something with the property that would be positive to continue her aunt’s legacy." DuBose said she intends a small operation she would manage herself with possibly one or two additional stylists and that she would limit disturbances from the business.
Council members discussed how conditional-use review would proceed. Roodman said staff would evaluate the site's compliance with Article 5, Section 5.b.1.a–5.b.1.f of the county ordinance and apply required buffering and other conditions; she noted that selling products beyond salon services could require additional review. Council also confirmed that residents within 500 feet were notified and that a sign was posted on the property.
Vice Chairman James R. Byrd moved and Councilman Artie Baker seconded to grant second-reading approval. The motion passed 5–2 with Council Members James T. McCain Jr., Baker, Byrd, Charles T. Edens and Vivian Fleming McGhaney voting in favor and Councilmen Carlton B. Washington and Eugene R. Baten opposed. Councilman Washington said he hopes the applicant and neighbors will meet before third reading; DuBose said she is willing to do so.
The rezoning now proceeds toward third reading, at which time council may impose conditions, deny the request, or grant final approval after any additional public input.
