Commission grants certificate for Johns Island Presbyterian Church expansion with retroactive permit clarification

Charleston County staff presented and the Historic Preservation Commission approved a certificate of historic appropriateness (CHA) allowing construction of a new 10,300-square-foot Family Life Center, exterior renovations to an existing fellowship hall (to be the children's ministry), and related site work at Johns Island Presbyterian Church, a property already listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Planner Emily Pigott summarized the project, noting the church complex's National Register listing (first listed in November 1975), a recent property-line adjustment that expanded the parcel by about 5.15 acres, and prior zoning approvals (including variances to allow grass parking to remain). Pigott described the new building's meeting-house/colonial-inspired proportions, materials (fiber cement lap siding, aluminum-clad wood windows with simulated divided lights), and siting to preserve a 54-inch live oak and to keep the historic worship hall as the focal point.

Commissioners asked why exterior work on the children's ministry building appeared complete; Pigott said staff discovered the work during a site visit and that an error in the permitting process led to a permit being issued prior to today's approval. "We are seeking retroactive approval for the children's ministry improvements," Pigott said, adding staff's understanding that the applicant obtained the required permits. A public speaker, Jeff Johnston, provided a historical note that the fellowship hall dates to 1954.

A motion to approve the CHA was made and seconded; the commission voted by roll call with ayes recorded and approved the certificate. Staff included a standard condition that major changes be processed pursuant to the county's historic preservation ordinance. The commission noted the decision is final for this body and provided information on appeal rights to the circuit court of Charleston County.