091823 Council Mtg Discussion Items with Attachments
DISCUSSION ITEMS FOR
SEPTEMBER 18, 2023
CITY COUNCIL MEETING
The documentation provided herewith consists of advance draft materials for review by Mayor
and City Council. Such documents may be revised prior to the actual Council meeting before any
formal consideration of same by Mayor and City Council. Said documents may also be revised by
way of a proper amendment made at the Council meeting. These documents are informational
only and not intended to represent the final decision of the Council.
Page 1 of 2
Administration Department
Interoffice Memorandum
TO: Mayor and City Council
FROM: Jim Clifford, City Administrator
DATE: April 28, 2023
SUBJECT: Regular City Council Meeting of May 1, 2023
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
ITEM 5. PROCLAMATIONS:
a. Direct Support Professionals Recognition Week, September 10-16, 2023
b. Constitution Week, September 17-23, 2023
c. Stormwater Awareness Week, September 24-30, 2023
d. Recognition of Don “Ramblin” Rhodes
Mayor Williams will recognize the above proclamations.
Please see ATTACHMENT #’s 5a, 5b, 5c, and 5d for a copy of the proclamations
NEW BUSINESS
ITEM 6. PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT: Ordinance No. 2023-15 Adopting the North Augusta
Development Code, Chapter 18 of the City of North Augusta, South Carolina Code of Ordinances,
Providing for New Zoning and Land Development Regulations and Updating the City-Wide Zoning Map
Accordingly – First Reading
An ordinance has been prepared for Council’s consideration to approve the Adopting the North Augusta
Development Code, Chapter 18 of the City of North Augusta, South Carolina Code of Ordinances, Providing
for New Zoning and Land Development Regulations and Updating the City-Wide Zoning Map Accordingly.
Please see ATTACHMENT #6 for a copy of the proposed ordinance.
Page 2 of 2
ITEM 7. ADMINISTRATION: Resolution No. 2023-33 Advising the City Administrator how to Respond to
Greenstone NG, LLC, Concerning a Proposal for the Sale by Greenstone NG LLC of the Property Generally
Known as the Medac Building to the City
A resolution has been prepared for Council’s consideration to approve Advising the City Administrator
how to Respond to Greenstone NG, LLC, Concerning a Proposal for the Sale by Greenstone NG LLC of the
Property Generally Known as the Medac Building to the City.
Please see ATTACHMENT #7 for a copy of the proposed resolution.
ITEM 8. ADMINISTRATION: Resolution No. 2023-34 Authorizing Multiple Expenditures from Fund 36
Ancillary to the Regional Solid Waste Transfer Station Project
A resolution has been prepared for Council’s consideration to approve Advising the City Administrator
how to Respond to Greenstone NG, LLC, Concerning a Proposal for the Sale by Greenstone NG LLC of the
Property Generally Known as the Medac Building to the City.
Please see ATTACHMENT #8 for a copy of the proposed resolution.
ITEM 9. ADMINISTRATION: Resolution No. 2023-35 to Provide a Local Match for a Municipal
Association of South Carolina Hometown Economic Development Grant
A resolution has been prepared for Council’s consideration to approve to Provide a Local Match for a
Municipal Association of South Carolina Hometown Economic Development Grant.
Please see ATTACHMENT #9 for a copy of the proposed resolution.
ITEM 10. PARKS, RECREATION, AND TOURISM: Resolution No. 2023-36 Authorizing the City of North
Augusta to Accept the Low Bid from Kenrick’s Construction for the Riverview Park Dugout
Replacements, Fields 1 & 2
A resolution has been prepared for Council’s consideration to approve Authorizing the City of North
Augusta to Accept the Low Bid from Kenrick’s Construction for the Riverview Park Dugout Replacements,
Fields 1 & 2.
Please see ATTACHMENT #10 for a copy of the proposed resolution.
PROCLAMATION
WHEREAS, direct support professionals, including direct care workers, personal assistants,
personal attendants, in-home support workers, and paraprofessionals, are key to providing
publicly funded, long-term support and services for millions of individuals with disabilities; and
WHEREAS, direct support professionals arrive for work every day ready to do all they can to
ensure the health and safety of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and autism,
providing essential support that ensures all individuals are included as a valued part of their
community, supported at home, at work, and in their communities, and empowered to live with
dignity that all people deserve: and
WHEREAS, direct support professionals ensure that individuals with disabilities thrive through
connections to their families, friends, and communities, thereby avoiding more costly institutional
care; and
WHEREAS, providing a broad range of individualized supports, from navigating the routines of
daily home life, job training, financial matters, medical appointments, and personal interest to
providing transportation o school, work, religious, and recreational activities and keeping people
with disabilities safe and healthy during the pandemic and volunteering to quarantine with
individuals served to reduce transmission of the virus direct support professional must build close,
respectful, and trusting relationships with the people they serve to empower them to fully
participate in their communities; and
WHEREAS, increased awareness and recognition of direct support professionals can help
alleviate the critical and growing shortage of these important healthcare workers in the Palmetto
State.
NOW THEREFORE, I, Briton S. Williams, Mayor of the City of North Augusta, South Carolina,
do hereby proclaim September 10 - 16, 2023, as
DIRECT SUPPORT PROFESSIONALS RECOGNITION WEEK
in the City of North Augusta, South Carolina, and urge all our citizens to honor our direct support
professionals for their dedication and contributions that enhance the lives of individuals of all
ages with disabilities.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal of the City of North
Augusta, South Carolina, to be affixed this 18th day of September, 2023.
Briton S. Williams, Mayor
City of North Augusta
ATTACHMENT #5a Page 1 of 1
PROCLAMATION
WHEREAS, our Founding Fathers, including South Carolinians, Pierce Butler, Charles
Pinckney, John Rutledge, and Charles Cotesworth Pinckney, risked their fortunes, and some even
their lives, to secure the blessings of liberty for themselves and their posterity, did ordain and
establish a Constitution for the United States of America; and
WHEREAS, September 17, 2023, marks the two hundred and thirty-sixth anniversary of the
drafting of the Constitution of the United States by the Constitutional Convention; and
WHEREAS, the anniversary of the signing of the Constitution provides an historic opportunity
for all Americans to learn about and recall the achievements of our Founders, and to reflect on
the rights and privileges of citizenship as well as its attendant responsibilities; and
WHEREAS, the independence guaranteed to the American people by the Constitution should be
celebrated by appropriate ceremonies and activities during Constitution Week, September 17
through 23, 2023, as designated by proclamation of the President of the United States of America
in accordance with Public Law 915.
NOW THEREFORE, I, Briton S. Williams, Mayor of the City of North Augusta, South Carolina,
do hereby proclaim September 17 - 23, 2023, as
CONSTITUTION WEEK
in the City of North Augusta, South Carolina, and urge all our citizens to reflect during that week
on the many benefits of our Federal Constitution and the privileges and responsibilities of
American citizenship.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal of the City of North
Augusta, South Carolina, to be affixed this 18th day of September, 2023.
Briton S. Williams, Mayor
City of North Augusta
ATTACHMENT #5b Page 1 of 1
PROCLAMATION
WHEREAS, polluted water released into our local creeks, streams, reservoirs, and rivers can cause harm
to human health and wildlife, contaminate our drinking water sources, and threaten the ability to take part
in recreational water activities; and
WHEREAS, population growth, residential and commercial development, and the resulting changes to the
natural drainage and hydrology of the land will only deepen our concern for stormwater quantity and
quality in the City of North Augusta; and
WHEREAS, the most common source of pollution to our water resources is stormwater runoff that includes
yard waste, pet waste, vehicle fluids, trash, and sediment; and
WHEREAS, these impacts cannot be entirely avoided, or eliminated, but can be reduced with the use of
education, outreach, and change in everyday pollution prevention practices; and
WHEREAS, our Stormwater Management Department is equipped to aid in the development and
implementation of effective education and outreach programs in connection with other municipalities and
organizations within the CSRA, that will meet state and federal stormwater pollution control requirements;
and
WHEREAS, this need arises from regulatory requirements, but also from the local community members,
residents of our City, and local stakeholders and decision makers that will benefit from a greater awareness
of the cumulative impacts our decisions make at home, at work, at school, and through local policy, effect
the water quality of the Savannah River and our local water resources; and
WHEREAS, the year 2023 marks the 2nd annual Stormwater Awareness Week sponsored in the City of
North Augusta.
NOW THEREFORE, I, Briton S. Williams, Mayor of the City of North Augusta, South Carolina, do hereby
proclaim the week September 24 – September 30, 2023, as
Stormwater Awareness Week
in the City of North Augusta and I urge all citizens to pay tribute to water resources and to recognize the
impact we can have to protect and preserve the water quality our creeks, streams, reservoirs, and rivers
and the quality of life water brings to our city.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal of the City of North Augusta,
South Carolina, to be affixed this 18th day of September, 2023.
Briton S. Williams, Mayor
City of North Augusta
ATTACHMENT #5c Page 1 of 1
PROCLAMATION
WHEREAS, Don Rhodes longtime North Augusta resident passed away on June 9, 2023; and
WHEREAS, Don was originally born in Gainesville, Texas, however, considered North Augusta as his
home. He graduated from the University of Georgia School of Journalism in 1967, where he was hired by
Morris Communications Company as a police beat reporter for the Savannah Evening Press; and
WHEREAS, Don transferred to Augusta in 1970, where he covered politics and entertainment for the
Augusta Herald and Augusta Chronicle until 1993 when he transferred within the Morris Communications
Company family owned business to the corporate communications department; and
WHEREAS, Don served as the publication’s editor of the Morris Communications Company and
publications manager of the National Barrel Horse Association and the Augusta Futurity until his passing;
and
WHEREAS, Don was known nationally for his music column “Ramblin Rhodes” and observed its 50th
anniversary in October 2020. He also served on the Board of Directors for the Augusta Museum of History,
Arts and Heritage Center of North Augusta, and the Heritage Council of North Augusta; and
WHEREAS, Don has been the historian of the Jesse C. Lynch Memorial American Legion Post 71 in North
Augusta and was made an honorary lifetime member of the Augusta Genealogical Society; and
WHEREAS, Don was a noted author that published nine books including James Brown “Say it Loud”, Ty
Cobb “Safe at Home”, and most recently stories about North Augusta; and
WHEREAS, Don could always be counted on for research knowledge for projects, exhibits, historical
markers, and presentations. He had numerous music associations which included entertainers such as
Brenda Lee, Dolly Parton, Becky Hobbs, The Judd’s, and locally James Brown, Flo Carter, and the Lewis
family. In addition, he was friends with Sharon Jones and was instrumental in naming the North Augusta
Amphitheater after her; and
WHEREAS, Don Rhodes was a special friend to all who knew him. His love for North Augusta and its
history was evident in his life. His dedication and literary efforts will live on for generations to come.
NOW THEREFORE, I, Briton S. Williams, on behalf of the citizens of the City of North Augusta do hereby
recognize
Don “Ramblin” Rhodes
dedication to the City of North Augusta and his citizens and as a final tribute to Don Rhodes: “Thanks for
the Memories.”
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal of the City of North Augusta,
South Carolina, to be affixed this 18th day of September, 2023.
Briton S. Williams, Mayor
City of North Augusta
ATTACHMENT #5d Page 1 of 1
ORDINANCE NO. 2023-15
ADOPTING THE NORTH AUGUSTA DEVELOPMENT CODE,
CHAPTER 18 OF THE CITY OF NORTH AUGUSTA, SOUTH CAROLINA
CODE OF ORDINANCES, PROVIDING FOR NEW ZONING AND LAND DEVELOPMENT
REGULATIONS AND UPDATING THE CITY-WIDE ZONING MAP ACCORDINGLY
WHEREAS, pursuant to Title 6, Chapters 29 and 31 of the South Carolina Code, the North
Augusta Planning Commission has the responsibility to prepare zoning and land development
regulations for adoption by the North Augusta City Council; and
WHEREAS, such zoning and land development regulations have been revised and updated
approximately every ten (10) years; and
WHEREAS; the most recently revised regulations were adopted in 2007 as the North
Augusta Development Code; and
WHEREAS, the North Augusta Planning Commission has spent several years in the
preparation of a Development Code which is consistent with the city's 2022 Comprehensive Plan;
and
WHEREAS, the proposed Development Code incorporates all city zoning and land
development regulations; and
WHEREAS, the proposed Development Code will replace the 2007 North Augusta
Development Code; and
WHEREAS, public comment was solicited through formal public hearings and informal
communication throughout the multiyear document preparation process; and
WHEREAS, the 2023 North Augusta Development Code is consistent with the city's 2022
Comprehensive Plan; and
WHEREAS, the North Augusta Planning Commission approved the draft North Augusta
Development Code on June 6, 2023 and recommended it to the City Council for approval; and
WHEREAS, City Council held a public hearing on September 11, 2023 in accordance with
Section 6-29-760 of the South Carolina Code of Laws; and
WHEREAS, an updated zoning map for the purposes of aligning existing zoning districts
with new zoning district names and designations has been prepared which does not change the
underlying zoning district classifications.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL OF
THE CITY OF NORTH AUGUSTA, SOUTH CAROLINA, IN MEETING DULY ASSEMBLED
AND BY THE AUTHORITY THEREOF, THAT:
ATTACHMENT #6 Page 1 of 4
ORDINANCE ADOPTING THE NORTH AUGUSTA’S DEVELOPMENT CODE
I. The North Augusta Development Code, Chapter 18 of The City of North Augusta, South
Carolina Code of Ordinances, Providing for New Zoning and Land Development Regulations for
the City of North Augusta, South Carolina, is hereby adopted and shall read as follows:
North Augusta Development Code Chapter 18 of the City of North Augusta Code of Ordinances
Article 1. Authority and Purpose
Article 2. Applicability and Conformity
Article 3. Nonconformities
Article 4. Zoning Districts Established
Article 5. Uses and Use Conditions
Article 6. Building and Lot Standards
Article 7. Landscaping, Buffers, Open Space, and Trails
Article 8. Parking, Loading, and Stacking
Article 9. Signs
Article 10. Mobility
Article 11. Adequate Public Facilities
Article 12. Utilities
Article 13. Environmental Standards
Article 14. Design and Performance Standards
Article 15. Floodplain Management
Article 16. Land Subdivision
Article 17. Administrative Roles and Responsibilities
Article 18. Administration and Enforcement
Article 19. Definitions
ATTACHMENT #6 Page 2 of 4
Appendix A. Definitions
Appendix B. Application Documents
Appendix C. Approved Plants
Appendix D. Construction Standards
Appendix E. Erosion and Sediment Control
Appendix F. Stormwater Quality
Appendix G. Stormwater System Design Standards (Text of ordinance)
II. Upon adoption of this ordinance on second and final reading, the previous Development
Code, Ordinance #2007-22, adopted December 17, 2007, along with all amendments thereto, is
repealed in its entirety.
III. All other Ordinances or parts of Ordinances in conflict herewith are, to the extent of
such conflict, hereby repealed.
IV. The North Augusta Development Code will be effective upon adoption.
V. All development applications deemed complete and received by the city prior to adoption of
the North Augusta Development Code will be processed under the 2007 North Augusta
Development Code.
VI. If the Planning Director determines that a project was significantly under design but not yet
submitted the Planning Director may, in his discretion, may allow the project to be developed
under the previous code.
VII. The attached city-wide Zoning Map for the City of North Augusta, South Carolina is hereby
adopted for the purposes of applying new zoning district names and designations and does not
change the underlying zoning district classifications.
VIII. Upon adoption of the 2023 North Augusta Development Code the previous Zoning Map,
adopted December 17, 2007 by Ordinance 2007-22, along with all amendments thereto, is
repealed in its entirety.
ATTACHMENT #6 Page 3 of 4
DONE, RATIFIED AND ADOPTED BY THE MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL OF
THE CITY OF NORTH AUGUSTA, SOUTH CAROLINA, ON THIS _________ DAY OF
___________________, 2023.
First Reading:
Second Reading: Briton S. Williams, Mayor
ATTEST:
Jamie Paul, City Clerk
ATTACHMENT #6 Page 4 of 4
Department of Planning
And Development
Memorandum # 23-014
To: Jim Clifford, City Administrator
From: Tommy Paradise, Planning Director
Subject: Development Code Rewrite
Date: August 21, 2023
On Monday, August 14, 2023, City Council held a work session where they discussed the
proposed development code. Below is my understanding of the path forward and possible
changes.
1) City Council will hold a public hearing on the proposed development code at 5:30 pm on
September 11th. First reading of the ordinance will be on September 18th and second
reading is scheduled for October 2nd.
2) Section 3.4.2.2 refers to the limitation on reconstruction of a nonconforming building, but
places no amount that would trigger this limitation. There was discussion about possibly
50%. Staff would make the following recommendation on amending 3.4.1.2 and possibly
adding a 3.4.1.3.
The permitted reconstruction of a nonconforming structure that has been damaged
by less than 50% of the appraised value as determined by the county tax
assessor’s office in which the property sits, is allowed. if a permit is issued within
six months from the time of damage or notice of wear and shall be completed
within 12 months of issuance of the building permit for the nonconforming
structure. Otherwise, a A nonconforming structure shall not be rebuilt, altered, or
repaired following accidental damage if the repair exceeds 50% of the appraised
value as determined by the county tax assessor’s office in which the property sits.
except in conformity of these regulations. Nothing in this section prevents normal
maintenance and repairs of a nonconforming structure.
3. Alteration or Additions. Alterations and/or additions to a nonconforming
building or structure may be permitted as long as the alterations and/or additions
do not increase the nonconformity of the building or structure to the building
setback line, height limitations, yard, or other provisions regulating the size and
placement of buildings and structures for the district in which the nonconforming
building or structure is located.
3) Council considered changing 4.12.1 Residential R-14 -Large Lot Single Family
District to read Residential R-14 (1/3 Acre) -Large Lot Single Family District
#6 - MEMO 8-21-23 Page 1 of 3
4) Pawnshops in the DTMU1 is a conditional use, there was discussion on if this
should be allowed in DTMU1. If Council wishes to prohibit these in the DTMU1
staff would recommend amending Table 5.1 to prohibit them in the DTMU1.
5) Council discussed allowing food trucks on the common areas in residential communities.
If Council wishes to make this change, staff would make the following changes:
Amend Table 5.1 to allow food trucks as a conditional use in residential districts.
Amend Section 5.4.2.b. Maximum Number of Trucks per Property:
1. For commercially zoned parcels less than ¼ acre, up to two food
trucks are permitted on the property at the same time.
2. Commercially zoned properties Properties between ¼ and ½
acre in size are permitted up to three food trucks at the same time.
3. For commercially zoned parcels over ½ acre in size, a maximum
of four food trucks is permitted on the property at the same time,
except for City-sponsored special events.
Amend 5.4.2.c.i Food Trucks are permitted on commercially, or and industrially
zoned properties only parcels and in residentially zoned areas if located in
common areas with the property owner’s permission.
Amend Section 5.4.2.c.ix Food trucks shall be parked a minimum of 50 feet from
any residential zoning district except where the food truck is operating on a
common area of the residential district.
Amend Section 5.4.2.d.i In private spaces, hours of operation for food truck in
commercially and industrially zoned properties shall be no earlier than 7 a.m. and
no later than 10 p.m.
Amend Section 5.4.2.g.i Food trucks are permitted on commercially and
industrially zoned properties.
6) Also discussed was to allow chain link fencing that is not black vinyl clad. If so,
staff would propose the following recommendation:
Amend 6.3.5.2.a Black vinyl clad chain link
7) Council discussed the possibility of the Planning Director having the authority to
allow alternative to the architectural requirement found in 6.5 for the DTMU1
district. I reached our consultant, Robert Barber, FAICP with Orion
Plannnng+Design and discussed the option with him. Mr. Barber recommended
against staff having the authority and recommended alternative compliance to be
#6 - MEMO 8-21-23 Page 2 of 3
determined by the Planning Commission. If this is something that Council would
like to do, staff would recommend adding a section 6.5.10 which would state:
Alternative Compliance. The provisions of this section are not intended to
prohibit an alternative design or material not specifically prescribed, provided that
any such alternative complies with the intent of the provision of this section and is
objectively shown through an officially published case study to be the equivalent
or better of that prescribed in quality, appearance, strength, effectiveness, and
durability. Alternative compliance shall be evaluated by the planning commission
and approved or denied based on the demonstrated merits of proposed
compliance.
The above wording added as section 6.5.10 would only apply to the DTMU1
district. If Council wishes for similar alternative to be available in DTMU2 staff
would recommended adding a section 6.6.6 with the same wording.
#6 - MEMO 8-21-23 Page 3 of 3
Department of Planning
and Development
Memorandum # 23-029
To: James S. Clifford, City Administrator
From: Tommy Paradise, Director of Planning and Development
Subject: Council Public Hearing on Proposed Development Code
Date: September 15, 2023
City Council held a public hearing for the proposed development code on September 11th.
During the public hearing, representatives from the Home Builders Association of Aiken
and Augusta Region appeared and provided comments. Those comments are provided
below with comments from staff
Article 4
4.12 subsection 1, 2, 3, 4: R-14 R-10, R-7 and R-5 (pg. 22-25)
As an option - consider allowing up to a 20% reduction in lot area (reduction in the
minimum sq. footage of the lot). If the developer/builder elects to reduce the lot area by
up to 20%, the common area/greenspace in the development shall be increased by the
same square footage removed from the lot area. If lot area is reduced, allow the
impervious area of the lot to increase to 50%. Still keep the max density and min lot
widths the same per zoning district. Many buyers do not want large yards to take care of.
Allows developer/builder additional flexibility in lot layout.
Could reduce the infrastructure the city takes ownership of if the developed portion of a
tract of land is more condense.
Ability to decrease lot area works well with infill development and could help preserve
additional buffers and greenspace within the development.
Staff Comments: Staff would recommend not making these changes at this time. The
purpose of the new development code is the streamline the process and make the code
easier to understand. This may cause some confusion with developers in how to design.
It will also be difficult for staff to track because of different rules for different
subdivisions. The Homebuilder’s Association also recommended the development of a
Planned Residential district. This type of district would accommodate the changes that
are requested above, but would provide better oversite by the city since it would be
similar to a Planned Development without the commercial requirement.
ATTACHMENT #6 - MEMO 9-15-23 Page 1 of 6
Memorandum # 23-029
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4.12.3 R-7 (pg. 24)
Consider allowing townhome and single-family-attached a minimum 20ft lot width. Or
as an alternate consider 50% of those townhome or single-family-attached lots to be
reduced to 20ft in width, the remaining 50% must be 24ft or wider.
We have numerous townhouse plans with widths less than 24 ft, which would allow for
flexibility in design.
Staff Comments: This item was thoroughly discussed by the Planning Commission and
the Planning Commission recommended widths of not less than 24 ft. In reviewing
alternatives Council should be aware of unintended consequences. An example of an
unintended consequence would be parking. A parking space is 9 ft. by 18 ft. A 20 ft.
wide townhome (lot) with two parking spaces in front would have an 18ft. wide pad and
a 2-foot strip of grass in front of the home.
Article 7
Table 7.2 Plant Material specifications (pg. 97)
Keep allowances for large trees to be 2" min cal and small trees min 1" min caliper.
Keep the current min height requirements the same as well (8' & 6')
Increasing to 3" and 2" will add approximately $200 to $300 per tree for the large trees
and $150 to $200 per tree for the small.
Typical lot requires 1 street or subdivision tree, three large landscape trees and two small
landscape trees which is a total increased cost of $1400 range. This is builder cost. Then
a % profit added to that for the buyer and then the buyer pays for over the life of the
mortgage.
The larger the tree is when it's planted, the longer it takes to adjust and start growing. A
2 "tree will generally be the same size as a 3" tree in 3 to 4 years and has a higher
survivability rate.
Nothing stops a developer/builder from upsizing the trees to a larger size if they or the
buyer wants the larger tree. However, buyers rarely request larger or more trees, they
typically prefer to spend their money on upgrades inside the house.
Staff Comments: This issue was thoroughly discussed in both the Steering Committee
and Planning Commission. Both bodies recommended increasing the size. Roy Kibler is
the City Horticulturist and has the following comments on the question:
1) The reasons for moving to a 3” caliper street tree is to have a clear trunk for 5ft
so there is no sidewalk inference. Street trees with lower limbs are protruding
ATTACHMENT #6 - MEMO 9-15-23 Page 2 of 6
Memorandum # 23-029
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into the sidewalk and make it difficult to walk on the sidewalk without hitting
tree branches.
2) Tree specifications such as this require the tree to stay another year or so at the
nursery to allow it to have a 3” caliper and have a good quality structural tree
canopy with a clear tree trunk.
3) With the 2” caliper trees that are currently being planted they have not been
growing in caliper size very rapidly as there is no tree maintenance taking place
by the developer, builder or landscape installer during the maintenance period.
4) A 3” caliper tree in 3-4 years planted correctly could reach a caliper of 5-7” with
the proper care.
5) One other option would require the planting strip to be a 10 ft planting strip
which was originally requested for the street trees and then a 2” caliper tree could
remain as the tree branches would not be interfering with the sidewalks.
6) With the Maintenance Guarantee of 2 years the trees are not maintained by the
developer and such that the poor-quality trees that are being planted are causing
problems with the sidewalks and homeowners using them.
7) It appears as the developers are ultimately responsible for the street trees yet they
are passing the cost of the street trees onto the builder who then passes it on to
the homeowner. My professional recommendation would be to plant all the street
trees up front so that there is tree quality consistency and the developer bears the
cost of the street trees and therefore would have an interest in caring for the trees
during the maintenance guarantee period.
7.3.3.1.b Preparation of the landscape plan (pg. 97-98)
Also allow the civil engineer to prepare the landscape plan. This is common practice.
Staff Comments: This issue was also discussed in the Steering Committee and Planning
Commission which provided the recommendation in the draft. According to Roy Kibler,
City Horticulturist, the civil engineer is not a landscape architect and many times are
suggesting trees in the wrong location.
7.6 Street Trees (pg. 106)
The heading for subsection 7.6.2 mentions subdivision trees but there is no further
allowance for subdivision tree. Keep the allowance for subdivision trees. Or simplify
(delete "street" and "subdivision") the language to require one large tree per 40 ft of
frontage to be planted between the front of the house and the street.
Allow the requirement of planting of the tree(s) in the paragraph above be a requirement
of the final CO of the house, not the developer/final plat and not to a Performance or
Maintenance Warranty period or LOC.
We do not typically include the landscaping in the homeowner warranty because it is up
to them to run the irrigation properly and keep the plants alive.
ATTACHMENT #6 - MEMO 9-15-23 Page 3 of 6
Memorandum # 23-029
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Removing the trees from city responsibility and city ownership lowers city liability and
expense.
Staff Comments: Council has heard a lot of discussion about street trees. Prior to staff
providing comments Council should discuss the policy issues concerning street trees
and decide if they would like to continue with street trees, where the City would
maintain control but includes recurring maintenance cost and liability. As an alternative,
would the City like to move the required trees to the private property and be the
responsibility of the homeowner, where the City would not have control and the
property owner could maintain or remove the tree as they desire.
If Council wishes to maintain control of the trees, staff would suggest all trees be
required to be street trees located in the street right-of-way and eliminate the option of
subdivision trees on private property. Staff would recommend that the City take over
the maintenance of the trees when the street right-of-way is conveyed to the City, same
as the utility maintenance. The 24-month maintenance guarantee on the trees could be
called to replace trees that die during the maintenance period. Subdivision trees, as
currently allowed, are on the homeowner’s private property. Since this tree is not on
public property and privately owned it is already difficult to have these trees replaced.
If Council doesn’t wish to maintain control and additional large tree could be required
in the front yard of single-family detached homes. This tree would be required for the
certificate of occupancy and would be owned and maintained by the home owner. The
owner would also have the option of removing the tree if they desired. A maintenance
guarantee would not be required by the developer and the city would not have any
responsibility for the tree.
Article 9
9.6.5.6 Subdivision entrance signs (pg. 145)
Under e.ii and e.iii remove the word "monument"
Monument in the current code is only defined by one picture and monument in the
proposed code is not defined at all. Removing the reference to "monument" gives us
flexibility in the design of the sign. Keep all other size and material requirements in place.
Staff Comments: Monument signs are required for subdivision in the current development
code and this wording was transferred to the draft document. The requirement for
monument type signs is a typical requirement for subdivision entrances. Staff does
recognize that there are subdivision signs existing that are not the monument type and
these signs fit within the character of the community.
ATTACHMENT #6 - MEMO 9-15-23 Page 4 of 6
Memorandum # 23-029
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Article 13.
13.3.2 Protection and the increase in buffer width (pg. 184)
The proposed code would now require a 50ft undeveloped buffer and cannot be
subdivided.
Current city requirements are 25ft buffer and DHEC 30ft buffer up to 45ft buffer for
impaired streams. So, there are already more stringent requirements by state law for
streams/wetlands and waterways needing additional protection.
Taking of property
Implementing this increase in buffer width would be an additional hardship to
developing infill projects.
Consider keeping regs as they are or allow the additional 25ft to be disturbed and
replanted as part of the development process and included in the lot but place it in a "No
Build" or "Setback" zone.
Staff Comments: Numerous cities and counties in SC have established riparian or
stream buffers that are 50 feet or more (including Aiken County, Richland County
(100’), Greenville County, Anderson County (up to 100’), Lexington County) to name a
few. This was taking into consideration by those communities and found to be
protective and required. The SCDHEC buffers mentioned by the Home Builders
Association are temporary buffers, they are construction buffers (considered to be a
BMP) only protect streams during construction activities. True buffers, such as the
current North Augusta City buffer, is a permanent buffer and the area must remain
undisturbed during and after construction (except as currently allowed provided by city
council). So, to compare the SCDHEC requirements and the current or proposed
buffers, is a mistake. These are two completely different types or uses of the term
“buffers”.
13.6.1- Detention Pond screening (pg. 187}
Remove the proposed requirement for screening a detention pond. Leave this decision
up to the developer to decide if spending the money to screen the detention pond is
beneficial to the development or not.
Staff Comments: Detention ponds are typically deeded to the City who is thereafter
responsible for the maintenance and aesthetics of the ponds. By having the developer
screen the ponds it prevents future complaints about the pond, thereby saving the City
the expense of screening the pond in the future.
ATTACHMENT #6 - MEMO 9-15-23 Page 5 of 6
Memorandum # 23-029
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Article 16.
16.8.2 - Preliminary approval (pg. 221)
Continue with the current practice that the staff report doesn't have a recommendation,
but rather how the project fits within the development code or where it doesn't. You do
hire staff for their professional expertise, but this opens the door for personal opinions
to override whether the project meets the rules or not.
Staff Comments: This wording is in the current development code and was transferred
to the draft code. The question was discussed in depth at the Planning Commission and
the Planning Commission indicated their desire to receive recommendations.
16.8.5 Guarantees (pg. 222}
Consider allowing surety bonds from a bonding company with a rating of B+ or higher
as an alternate to Letters of Credit.
Letters of Credit require large amount of money to be tied up and counted against the
developer's balance sheet. Banks don't like them because they're not part of the loanable
balance sheet available to bank lending.
Staff Comments: Staff reached out to the City Attorney, Kelly Zier, and advised he
would suggest remaining with the Letters of Credit. Staff also reached out to other
jurisdictions and they recommended staying with a Letter of Credit.
A bond is with an insurance company that may want to adjust the claim for less than the
amount the City is requiring, leaving the City paying the difference or not pay. A Letter
of Credit has the cash on hand in a bank that the City can go against without dealing
with an insurance adjuster.
ATTACHMENT #6 - MEMO 9-15-23 Page 6 of 6
RESOLUTION NUMBER 2023-33
ADVISING THE CITY ADMINISTRATOR HOW TO RESPOND TO GREENSTONE
NG, LLC, CONCERNING A PROPOSAL FOR THE SALE BY GREENSTONE NG
LLC OF THE PROPERTY GENERALLY KNOWN AS THE MEDAC BUILDING TO
THE CITY
WHEREAS, the Greenstone NG, LLC has proposed to the City that the City purchase the
property know a the MEDAC Building; and,
WHEREAS, because of the location of the building and the ownership of the adjoining
parking deck, by the City, the Council has reviewed and considered such proposal; and,
WHEREAS, following a thorough review of matters related to the building, the City
Council has concluded that it is not in the best interest of the City to purchase the building at this
time; and,
WHEREAS, the City appreciates the offer by Greenstone, NG, LLC providing this
opportunity to purchase such property;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Mayor and City Council for the City
of North Augusta, in meeting duly assembled and by the authority thereof have determined that
the City would not enter into a Purchase Contract related to the MEDAC Building;
AND, IT IS FURTHER RESOLVED that the City Administrator is hereby directed to
notify Greenstone NG, LLC of the City’s appreciation for the offer of the property for purchase
by the City but advise Greenstone NG, LLC that the City will not be pursuing the purchase of
such property at this time.
DONE, RATIFIED AND ADOPTED BY THE MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF NORTH AUGUSTA, SOUTH CAROLINA, ON THIS ______ DAY
OF SEPTEMBER, 2023.
Briton S. Williams, Mayor
ATTEST:
Jamie Paul, City Clerk
ATTACHMENT #7 Page 1 of 1
RESOLUTION NO. 2023-34
AUTHORIZING MULTIPLE EXPENDITURES FROM FUND 36 ANCILLARY TO THE
REGIONAL SOLID WASTE TRANSFER STATION PROJECT
WHEREAS, in August 2020, the State of South Carolina received a $600 million
settlement as result of litigation against the U.S. Department of Energy related to plutonium
located at the Savannah River Site (SRS); and
WHEREAS, in July 2022, the State FY 2022-23 Appropriations Act, proviso 118.19
(72) appropriated a portion of the litigation settlement funds to the City of North Augusta for,
among other projects, $2,000,000 for a Regional Solid Waste Transfer Station; and
WHEREAS, City Council passed Resolution 2022-55 which formally acknowledged
this and other City projects selected for funding and designated allocations to be held in Fund
36 - Savannah River Settlement Appropriations Act until expenditures were made in
accordance with Council approval; and
WHEREAS, in February 2023, the City was advised that Aiken County would manage
litigation settlement funds on behalf of the City and only disperse project funding to City upon
receipt and approval of a “Draw Request” for a cash advance or reimbursement; and
WHEREAS, in May 2023, the City submitted and received its first draw request of the
principal for the transfer station totaling $199,650: and
WHEREAS, the litigation settlement funds allocated to the City of North Augusta
have been and continue to be invested in an interest bearing account in the local government
investment pool (LGIP) prior to relase to the City for expenditure; and
WHEREAS, interest earned on the City’s invested settlement funding is available for
City expenditure upon approval of a “Draw Request” by Aiken County and transferral into
City Fund 36; and
WHEREAS, the City has identified ancillary projects associated with the Regional
Solid Waste Transfer Station project as outlined in Attachment 1 and has submitted a “Draw
Request” of accrued interest for the ancillary project costs; and
WHEREAS, funds totaling $1,800,350 remain available from the principal to be
drawn for implementation of the Regional Solid Waste Transfer Station project.
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Mayor and City Council of the City
of North Augusta, South Carolina, in a meeting duly assembled and by the authority thereof,
that:
1. The City Administrator is authorized to execute such documents as necessary to
procure the identified equipment and execute projects in accordance with City
procurement policy.
ATTACHMENT #8 Page 1 of 3
2. Ancillary transfer station project costs shall not exceed $795,000 drawn from the
interest generated from litigation settlement funds.
DONE, RATIFIED AND ADOPTED BY THE MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF NORTH AUGUSTA, SOUTH CAROLINA, ON THIS ______ DAY OF
SEPTEMBER, 2023.
Briton S. Williams, Mayor
ATTEST:
Jamie Paul, City Clerk
ATTACHMENT #8 Page 2 of 3
ATTACHMENT 1
Ancillary projects associated with the Regional Solid Waste Transfer Station project:
Project / Equipment Amount Description
Transfer Trailer $130,000 For transport to landfill
Track Excavator $160,000 Direct support to transfer station
Residential Bulk Truck $100,000 Direct support to transfer station
Camera System $35,000 Monitoring system for the facility
Paving project $250,000 Pave upper and lower portions of the facility
Transfer station scale $120,000 Covers replacement parts or new scales
Total $795,000
ATTACHMENT #8 Page 3 of 3
RESOLUTION NO. 2023-35
A RESOLUTION TO PROVIDE A LOCAL MATCH FOR A MUNICIPAL ASSOCIATION OF
SOUTH CAROLINA HOMETOWN ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT GRANT
WHEREAS, the Municipal Association of South Carolina (MASC), offers
Hometown Economic Development Grants to South Carolina cities and towns to implement
economic development projects; and
WHEREAS, grant projects shall make a positive impact on the quality of life for
community residents; and
WHEREAS, the City of North Augusta seeks to request funding to upgrade a meeting
room in the Community Center to be digitally interactive and modern board room for
economic development use by the City, the Chamber and its community partners; and
WHEREAS, receipt of this grant would benefit the City, the North Augsuta Chamber
of Commerce, local businesses, residents and visitors.
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Mayor and City Council of the City
of North Augusta, South Carolina, in meeting duly assembled and by the authority thereof,
that:
1. Staff shall submit a grant application for $25,000 for a Hometown Economic
Development Grant on or before September 29, 2023.
2. The Mayor and Council of North Augusta commit to provide a local cash/in-kind
match of $3,750, which equals the minimum 15% match required by the
Municipal Association of South Carolina, from the City’s Capital Projects Fund.
3. Grant and matching funds shall be used for purchasing items and amenities to
upgrade the meeting room.
4. The North Augusta procurement policy will be followed when securing all
services and products with funds awarded from a Hometown Economic
Development Grant.
DONE, RATIFIED AND ADOPTED BY THE MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL OF
THE CITY OF NORTH AUGUSTA, SOUTH CAROLINA, ON THIS ______ DAY OF
SEPTEMBER, 2023.
Briton S. Williams, Mayor
ATTEST:
Jamie Paul, City Clerk
ATTACHMENT #9 Page 1 of 1
RESOLUTION NO. 2023-36
A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE CITY OF NORTH AUGUSTA
TO ACCEPT THE LOW BID FROM KENRICK’S CONSTRUCTION FOR THE
RIVERVIEW PARK DUGOUT REPLACEMENTS, FIELDS 1 & 2
WHEREAS, on August 3, 2021 the City of North Augusta was selected to receive a
South Carolina PRT PARD grant of $20,000 for the purpose of replacing Riverview Park
Dugouts; and
WHEREAS, the Parks, Recreation and Tourism Department identified the need for
Dugout replacement at Riverview Park Field #1 and Field #2 and Council approved $60,000
for the project in the fiscal year 2023 budget Capital Projects fund, that includes the South
Carolina PRT PARD grant of $20,000, reimbursable at the completion of the project; and
WHEREAS, on September 1, 2023, sealed bids were received, publicly opened and
read alout for the PROJECT; and
WHEREAS, the low bid by Kenrick’s Construction of North Augusta, South Carolina
is in the amount of $77,352.00; and
WHEREAS, Parks, Recreation and Tourism requests additional funding in the amount
of $17,352 from the Capital Projects fund to complete this project; and
WHEREAS, the Mayor and City Council of the City of North Augusta find that the
awarding of such bid for the PROJECT is in the best interest of the City.
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Mayor and City Council of the City
of North Augusta, South Carolina, in meeting duly assembled and by the authority thereof,
that Kenrick’s Construction shall be awarded the contract for Riverview Park Dugout
Replacement at a total cost of $77,352
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the funding sources for this contract shall be as
follows:
Captial Projects Fund, Budget 2023 $60,000
Capital Projects Fund, additional allocation $17,352
TOTAL: $77,352
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the City Administrator shall be authorized to
enter into a contract with Kenrick’s Construction in the amount of $77,352.
ATTACHMENT #10 Page 1 of 2
DONE, RATIFIED AND ADOPTED BY THE MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL OF
THE CITY OF NORTH AUGUSTA, SOUTH CAROLINA, ON THIS ______ DAY OF
SEPTEMBER, 2023.
Briton S. Williams, Mayor
ATTEST:
Jamie Paul, City Clerk
ATTACHMENT #10 Page 2 of 2