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Council approves first reading for Luden Drive annexation for church project; rejects immediate four‑way stop installation
Summary
Council gave first reading to annex a 4.26‑acre Luden Drive/King Charles Circle parcel for possible MFR zoning connected to a church project, adopted a Chamber vision resolution earlier in the meeting, and debated traffic safety on West Richardson Avenue — a motion to place four‑way stops without a study failed but staff were directed to coordinate with SCDOT.
Summerville — On April 9 the Town Council approved first reading of a petition to annex a 4.26‑acre parcel at Luden Drive and King Charles Circle (TMS 14400000082) and discussed related zoning and traffic matters.
The annexation petition from the group listed as Ambassadors of 1857 was read into the record by the town clerk. Council members debated whether to grant MFR (multifamily residential) zoning at first reading to align the parcel with an adjacent lot already zoned MFR. Several council members voiced support for the church’s plan and for moving the item forward on first reading, while one member recused from voting. Council ultimately put the annexation on first reading so the process can continue through the formal ordinance route.
Representatives of Summerville Methodist Church explained the congregation’s plans and financial readiness. Mark Wimberly, representing the church finance team, said the congregation has "over 400 active members" and had already invested substantially in planning and predevelopment, noting recent Easter attendance above 500 people. Church leaders said they are prepared to move forward quickly with site plans and a capital campaign.
Council also adopted earlier in the meeting a resolution supporting the Greater Summerville Dorchester County Chamber of Commerce’s 15‑year community vision plan; members praised the Chamber’s role in shaping long‑range priorities.
On traffic, Council Member Johnson moved to place four‑way stop signs at West Richardson Avenue intersections immediately; the council debated the merits of stop signs versus pursuing SCDOT review or a traffic study. A motion to install four‑way stops on the DOT‑maintained road without a study was seconded but failed on a close voice vote. Council directed staff to coordinate with SCDOT and pursue a Safe Streets study and potential funding for safety improvements; members cautioned that installing signs on an SCDOT road can be interpreted as de facto acceptance of responsibility for maintenance.
What this means: The annexation will proceed through first reading and additional hearings; if the council later approves final readings and zoning designation, development steps would follow. The rezoning and traffic items remain subject to additional staff work and future council action.
