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Bluffton staff propose streamlining demolition review for non‑contributing properties in Oldtown
Summary
Town staff proposed treating demolitions and relocations of non‑contributing structures in Oldtown Bluffton through the site feature process instead of the longer KOFA/public hearing route, and asked commissioners for input on UDO edits; commissioners were also briefed on a monthly permit update and upcoming events.
Town staff told the Historic Preservation Commission on July 3 that they plan to propose an amendment to the Oldtown Bluffton review process that would route demolition and relocation requests for non‑contributing structures through the site feature process rather than the KOFA/public hearing pathway, a change intended to shorten review timelines for roughly 80 non‑contributing properties.
Staff said the proposal would prevent relatively minor demolitions from going through an extended public‑hearing process and noted that recent reviews of small detached carriage houses stretched multiple steps—pre‑application, HPRC and public hearings—lengthening turnaround. “We are proposing an amendment ... to treat demolitions of non‑contributing resources through the site feature process rather than having it go through the KOFA process, which really draws it out,” the staff member said.
Commissioners asked how property owners could appeal if a demolition were denied; staff said a route could include the Board of Zoning Appeals and encouraged commissioners to send suggested edits to staff for compilation ahead of formal amendment drafting. The staff member also said that an Oldtown master‑plan update is in preparation and that some UDO amendments may be considered through that process.
In other business, staff reported nine site feature permits issued last month, including grants for painting and door repairs and work on the Bluffton United Methodist Church front entrance. Staff also announced a commemoration of the 163rd anniversary of the burning of Bluffton to be held at noon at the Squire Pope Carriage House in Wright Family Park, with preservationist Glenn Umbberger providing historical remarks. Staff noted roughly 175 attendees participated in recent mobile symposium sessions and reminded commissioners about state continuing education requirements; Carrie Guzman in the town manager’s office was identified as the staff contact for training questions.
What’s next: staff will prepare a formal amendment package for discussion, compile commissioner suggestions on the UDO, and continue the Oldtown master‑plan RFQ process that may generate additional proposed changes to the UDO.
