N.A. discusses rezoning, long-term development

Samantha Winn, Aiken Standard, S.C.
·3 min read

Sep. 28—North Augusta City Council discussed two ordinances about zoning around West Martintown Road at its Monday meeting.

The two tracts of land combined equal about 50 acres of land and, if passed, would change the zoning from Large Lot Single-Family to Mixed Residential.

Known as the McKie property, the developers have not specifically stated for what it will be used.

Council member Kevin Toole wanted to know how the development would affect the long-term plan for North Augusta.

"I'm personally not opposed to higher-density development. I think there are a lot of reasons to do it but from a comprehensive plan standpoint," Toole said.

"I think what we are seeing here in the city right now from an inventory perspective — a lot of projects that are ongoing are north of I-20 or are becoming more mature and are running out of land options," City Administrator Jim Clifford said.

"... It's pretty safe to say at this point in time anything that is either green space that is privately owned ... and has the ability to be developed or zoned are moving in that direction. ... ," Clifford said.

Mayor Briton Williams, who used to be on the city's planning commission, is looking to have discussions with council in early 2022 about the city's overall plan within the next 10 years.

"We need to get back to long-term planning," Williams said. "... We have vacant buildings. ... We need to have a conversation about the North Augusta Country Club."

Council also decided to bring back the Riverside Village boat dock plans to the agenda for next week's meeting. After previously tabling the item due to changing information, council agreed to put it back on the docket.

The dock will allow access to restaurants, apartments and SRP Park via boat and water access. The city of North Augusta has a boat dock with parking access near Riverview Park and a boat dock in Hammond's Ferry along the Greeneway.

North Augusta's budget for 2022 will be published by the end of the month. A public hearing will be published this week for a discussion with citizens. The final budget will be voted on by council in October and November.

Other business

* City attorney Kelly Zier will be recognized during the Oct. 4 city council meeting. He has worked for the city for 50 years. To contribute to the presentation in his honor, email jmccauley@northaugusta.net.

* The second reading of the Seven Gables/Flythe property will occur during the Oct. 4 meeting. The property, if the zoning passes, will become the new home of North Augusta Department of Public Safety headquarters.

* A resolution allowing the city of North Augusta to purchase an Office 365 program was discussed. The resolution would allow the city to maintain a ".gov" website domain and use Microsoft resources throughout the city.

* NADPS received a DUI grant, which allows another officer to be added to the department.

Samantha Winn covers the city of North Augusta, with a focus on government and community oriented business. Follow her on Twitter: @samanthamwinn and on Facebook and Instagram: @swinnnews.