Kara Blackwell

The meeting commenced with the call to order for the City of Greer Planning Commission. Key discussions centered on the election of the 2026 chair and vice chair, with Walden Jones being nominated for chair. A significant portion of the meeting involved the public hearing for rezoning request RZ26-01, concerning three parcels on Pleasant Drive from suburban neighborhood to traditional neighborhood zoning to facilitate a subdivision of 72 lots, down from an initial proposal of 85 or 89 lots. Staff recommended approval, citing its role as a transition zone. Public comments raised significant concerns regarding traffic congestion and safety due to the single entrance on Pleasant Drive and potential spillover traffic onto adjacent roads like Wayman Drive. The applicant addressed concerns regarding the traffic impact analysis, noting no improvements were recommended, and estimated potential home sale prices to be in the $500,000 to $550,000+ range. Staff also noted the requirement for a second emergency access fire gate off South Bunkham Road for developments exceeding 30 units.

The meeting commenced with a public hearing regarding an ordinance authorizing the closure of a portion of a public road in the city of Greer, specifically Moore Street, following prior resolution adoption and public notification. Following the hearing, the council reviewed and received the minutes from the council meeting workshop and council meeting held on January 27, 2026. A presentation was given by the director of the Greer Farmers Market, updating the council on the 2025 impact, including metrics on farm and vendor representation, attendance, and assistance programs like SNAP, Healthy Bucks, Senior Vouchers, WIC, and the new Healthy Kids program. Discussion points included vendor loading difficulty due to physical demands and weather dependency, pedestrian safety concerns for shoppers crossing Point Set Street, and the need for improved signage. Further discussion addressed the sustainability of the Healthy Kids program through community sponsorships and the ongoing conversation regarding business license requirements and fees for market vendors, particularly concerning the definition of a farmer and interstate vendor compliance with state food safety regulations.

The meeting convened for the first session of 2026 and included a swearing-in ceremony for newly elected and reelected council members (District 2, 4, 6) and a Public Works Commissioner. New council members introduced were Charles Landers (District 4) and Paul Lamb (District 6). Councilman Karium Booker (District 2) began a second term. Commissioner Jean Gibson was also sworn in for another term on the Public Works commission after 44 years of service. The meeting also featured several recognitions for employees retiring after dedicated service, including Dale Artem (29 years), Joe Ary (10 years), Carl (21 years), John Pollson (29 years). Furthermore, the Greer Fire Department was recognized and granted the SAFE Sexual Assault Forensic Excellence designation, being one of only two fire departments in the state to receive it. The body moved to receive the minutes from the December 9, 2025 meeting.

The meeting commenced with recognition of the swearing-in ceremony for newly elected council members for Districts 2, 4, and 6, along with a public works commissioner. Councilman Karium Booker began his second term for District 2, Charles Landers joined for District 4, and Paul Lamb for District 6. Public Works Commissioner Jean Gibson was reelected. The meeting included a significant segment dedicated to recognizing several employees for retirement milestones after the holiday season, including Dale Arban (29 years), Joe Autry (10 years), Carl (21 years), and John Pollson (29 years). Additionally, the Greer Fire Department received special recognition for dedication and excellence in a critically important area for the community and state. The council also entertained a motion to receive the minutes from the December 9th, 2025, meeting.

The meeting began with a prayer and the pledge of allegiance. Council members offered gratitude for the efforts of the fire and police departments in managing the recent winter storm and thanked public safety teams for their work ensuring city functionality. The Mayor emphasized checking on neighbors, particularly elderly residents, due to potential issues like frozen and busted water pipes stemming from the cold weather. The agenda included a public forum, which had no scheduled appearances, followed by the reception of the minutes from the January 13, 2026 council meeting. The session was scheduled to proceed with a special recognition followed by employee recognition.