James S. Clifford

The Commission addressed several development requests, including a text amendment to allow telecommunications towers in the Public Use zoning district, approval for a major subdivision preliminary plat for townhouses in the Hammond's Ferry Planned Development, and a major site plan for an addition to North Augusta Middle School. Additionally, there was a presentation on tree preservation, a review of performance reports, and an initial report regarding a planned development modification for 'The Hive'.

The Board of Zoning Appeals meeting addressed several applications. For MW25-005, a Major Waiver request for a local street block length exceeding the maximum criteria for The Cottages at Rose Hill subdivision was unanimously approved, subject to conditions ensuring connectivity and final Planning Commission review. For ZV25-013, a variance request by RTR North Augusta, LLC to allow a 4-story, 50 ft tall building in the General Commercial Zoning District (for a potential Homes 2 Suites building) was unanimously approved with conditions limiting height and footprint. For ZV25-014, a variance request by RTR North Augusta, LLC to reduce the size of interior parking lot landscaping islands was unanimously approved, provided the new layout is constructed as shown. The meeting concluded with adjournment at 7:10 pm. The document also contains staff reports and public hearing notices for subsequent items planned for March 3, 2026, including Special Exception requests (ZE26-001, ZE26-002, ZE26-003) and variance appeals (ZV26-001, ZV26-002, ZV25-003).

During the regular meeting, the Council addressed Old Business by unanimously approving the second reading of Ordinance No. 2025-30, which regulates the operation of golf carts, including nighttime use, following legal counsel's update on state law interpretations. In New Business, the Council approved Resolution No. 2025-41, establishing rules for fishing access in public waterways, which limits fishing and boating in Brick Pond Park's west ponds while confirming that these activities are permitted in the Savannah River, Briggs Pond, and Beaufort Pond. Furthermore, Resolution No. 2025-42 was unanimously approved, authorizing a contract for the MASC Impact Grant-funded "4 Minute Community" Program, which involves deploying 50 AEDs throughout the City. Administrative reports included an update on three strategic locations for microchip scanning stations. Council also discussed upcoming community events and addressed public comments regarding a newsletter article and the Community Prayer Tree.

The agenda for the City Council meeting includes several key items following the Public Power Hour. New business items cover appointments to Boards and Commissions, the administration of the Oath of Office for the new Assistant Municipal Judge, acceptance of the 2026 Jury Box, and a first reading of an ordinance to amend the Zoning Map for approximately 4.93 acres from PD to GC. Additionally, the Council is scheduled to consider resolutions authorizing contracts for Towing and Vehicle Impoundment Services, and Valet Parking Services in Riverside Village, as well as accepting a Deed of Dedication for infrastructure improvements in Wrenfield at Chanticleer, Phase A. The meeting also includes a personnel recognition for the retirement of K-9 Lucia.

The City Council study session included a discussion of items for the upcoming regular meeting, specifically focusing on an ordinance regulating golf cart operation within the city, including nighttime use and use on streets with a 35mph speed limit. The agenda included discussion on accepting a deed of dedication for streets, sanitary sewer, stormwater collection, fire suppression systems, associated easements, and rights of way for Wrenfield at Chanticleer, Phase A. Also mentioned were resolutions for establishing fishing access and usage rules in the city's public waterways, and authorizing a contract for the MASC Impact Grant-Funded \"4 Minute Community\" Program. The council also discussed the River Side Village Property Acquisition and the financial model update.