Council approves title-only first reading to study a lake-overlay district; members urge broader outreach

Pickens County Council on March 16 approved a title-only first reading to study a proposed lake-overlay district (the draft referenced Lake Kiwi). Staff framed the overlay as a tool to protect water quality, shoreline management and the region’s drinking-water resources; council members emphasized the need to avoid arbitrary restrictions on private property and to broaden outreach.

Mr. Ro (staff) described Lake Kiwi as "one of Pickens County’s most remarkable natural and recreational resources" and said an overlay district would help the county address water-quality concerns, shoreline management, flood risk and preservation of open space. "An overlay district will give the county a thoughtful way to address issues such as water quality, shoreline management, flooding risks, and also preserving our natural heritage," he said.

Several council members said they supported the environmental intent but cautioned about limiting private-property rights without narrow legal justification. One council member said the county should consider applying a consistent overlay approach to multiple lakes rather than singling out one shoreline area, noting that a broader approach could reduce arguments that the ordinance is arbitrary or spot-zoning.

Council scheduled public outreach (a public meeting was announced for April) and directed staff to refine language, clarify whether the study will target multiple lakes or a single lake, and ensure the agenda and final text are transparent ahead of public hearings. The chair moved a title-only first reading for the draft overlay ordinance; after discussion and an amendment attempt to remove the specific lake name, council approved the title-only reading unanimously by voice vote.