Beaufort County public meetings in 2025

Planning Commission

The Beaufort County Planning Commission meeting on Dec 15, 2025 will consider a sketch plan for a commercial development that includes a free‑standing Emergency Department and a Primary Care Clinic at 396 Robert Smalls Parkway. The commission will also review the minutes from the November 3 and November 17, 2025 meetings. The agenda includes a segment for questions relating to military operations.

• Review of November 3, 2025 Worksession Minutes
• Review of November 17, 2025 Regular Meeting Minutes
• Questions relating to military operations
• Sketch Plan Beaufort FSED & PCC – 396 Robert Smalls Parkway (commercial development proposal)

Historic District Review Board

The Historic District Review Board will consider a final approval request for a duplex and detached carriage house. The board will also elect members for the Historic Task Force Committee and set the 2026 meeting schedule.

• Final approval request for new construction of a duplex and detached carriage house at 811 Congress Street
• Election of Board members for the Historic Task Force Committee
• Establishment of the 2026 Board Meeting Schedule
• Discussion on a date for HDRB/HBF Training in January or February 2026

The Historic District Review Board unanimously approved final approval for the new duplex and carriage house at 811 Congress Street, subject to staff conditions and required specification sheets. The board also rescheduled the November 11, 2026 meeting to November 18 and adopted minor wording changes to the 2026 schedule. Staff will accept only digital submittals starting in 2026, and a training workshop was set for February 13, 2026.

• Granted final approval for 811 Congress Street duplex and carriage house, with conditions (unanimous)
• Rescheduled 2026 November 11 board meeting to November 18
• Changed schedule terminology: ‘Deadline Date’ to ‘Submittal Date’, ‘Meeting Schedule’ to ‘HRB Meeting Schedule’, and reordered columns
• Staff will accept only digital submittals beginning in 2026, ending hard‑copy submissions
• Set February 13, 2026, 9:00 am as date for HDRB/HBF training workshop
• Agreed to email revised historic‑district brochure and customer‑satisfaction survey to board members
• Noted Ms. Wilson as the last board member to complete the required 3‑hour training by end of 2025
• Motion to adjourn passed

City Council

The City Council will hold a worksession to discuss the procurement of noise ordinance signs and the Duke Street project. The meeting will include employee recognitions and an executive session regarding property purchase and legal advice.

• Discussion of noise ordinance signs procurement
• Duke Street project discussion
• Employee recognition for new hires
• Executive session on property purchase
• Executive session on legal advice

The council expressed support for buying four mobile noise‑ordinance signs to be placed at key locations in the Bay Street business district, at an estimated cost of $1,116. The City Attorney will be asked to review the ordinance language and recommend revisions. Motions to enter and later exit executive session were approved unanimously, with no actions taken during the session.

• Supported purchase of four noise ordinance signs ($1,116)
• City Attorney to review and recommend changes to Noise Ordinance language
• Motion to enter executive session carried (unanimous)
• Motion to exit executive session carried (unanimous)

City Council

The Beaufort City Council will consider several second‑reading ordinances, including updates to garbage collection, the business license schedule, the 2025‑2026 budget, and a ban on balloon releases. The council will also vote on a resolution to purchase real property at 32 Burton Hill Road (Tax Map Number R122 029 000 0290 0000). Additional agenda items include routine monthly reports, public comment, and proclamations.

• Ordinance to amend the Code of the City of Beaufort, Part 6 – Health and Sanitation, Chapter 1 – Garbage Collection and Disposal (Second Reading)
• Ordinance amending the Business License Ordinance to update the Class Schedule as required by Act 176 of 2020 (Second Reading)
• Ordinance to amend City of Beaufort Ordinance 2025/13 regarding the fiscal year 2025‑2026 budget (Second Reading)
• Ordinance to make the release of balloons within the City unlawful (Second Reading)
• Resolution approving the purchase of real property at 32 Burton Hill Road, Tax Map Number R122 029 000 0290 0000

The council voted 4-1 to approve the purchase of a 0.345‑acre parcel at 32 Burton Hill Road for $100,000. Several ordinances were adopted, including updates to garbage collection, business license classes, the FY 2025‑2026 budget, a balloon‑release ban, and the adoption of the Beaufort County Animal Control Ordinance. The council also changed its meeting schedule to the second Tuesday at 6 p.m. and the fourth Tuesday at 5 p.m. for worksessions. All consent‑agenda reports were approved unanimously.

• Approved purchase of 32 Burton Hill Rd parcel for $100,000 (vote 4-1)
• Approved ordinance amending garbage collection and disposal (all in favor)
• Approved ordinance updating Business License Class Schedule (all in favor)
• Approved ordinance amending FY 2025‑2026 budget (all in favor)
• Approved ordinance passed to ban balloon releases in the city (all in favor)
• Ordinance adopted to incorporate Beaufort County Animal Control Ordinance (all in favor)
• Changed council meeting schedule to second Tuesday 6 p.m. and fourth Tuesday 5 p.m. (all in favor)
• Approved consent agenda reports (Community Development, Downtown Operations, etc.) (all in favor)

General

The Planning Commission will hold a work session to review Chapter 2 Maps and Districts, Chapter 3 Land Use Provisions, and Chapter 4 Building Design and Infill Standards. The meeting will be held via Zoom and live-streamed on YouTube.

• Discussion of Chapter 2 Maps and Districts
• Discussion of Chapter 3 Land Use Provisions
• Discussion of Chapter 4 Building Design and Infill Standards
• Meeting held via Zoom and live-streamed on YouTube

General

The Waterfront Advisory Committee will hold its December 1 meeting to review initial marina planning issues assigned by the City Council, receive a status report on the Waterfront Park public opinion survey, and set future meeting dates. The committee will also enter an executive session to discuss negotiations and legal advice related to proposed contractual arrangements.

• Initial discussion of marina planning issues assigned by Council
• Status report on Waterfront Park public opinion survey
• Future meeting dates scheduling
• Executive session to discuss negotiations of proposed contractual arrangements and legal advice

The committee amended the agenda to add a discussion on the Bay Street/Charles Street storm‑water project, and the motion carried. Minutes from the October‑November meetings were approved. Future meeting dates for January through April 2026 were set. Motions to enter and exit executive session and to adjourn the meeting were all carried.

• Agenda amendment adding storm‑water discussion approved (motion carried)
• Minutes for Oct. 21 and Nov. 3 approved (motion carried)
• Future meeting dates set for Jan 12, Feb 2, Mar 2, Apr 13 2026
• Motion to enter executive session approved (motion carried)
• Motion to exit executive session approved (motion carried)
• Motion to adjourn approved (motion carried)

General

The City Council will hold a quarterly workshop to review the Capital Improvements Program (CIP). The meeting will be held at the Beaufort Municipal Complex and streamed online.

• Quarterly Capital Improvements Program (CIP) Update
• City Council Quarterly Capital Projects Workshop
• Meeting broadcast via Zoom and YouTube
• City of Beaufort Municipal Complex
• 1911 Boundary Street, Beaufort, SC 29902

The council heard updates on the Quarterly Capital Improvements Program, including status and costs for Southside Park Phase II, Washington Street Park, several drainage projects, and waterfront plans. No motions were voted on or approved during the workshop. The meeting was adjourned at 6:20 PM.

Park and Tree Advisory Committee

The Park and Tree Advisory Committee will approve the minutes from the October 23 meeting, consider updates on the Arbor Day Celebration and the Charles Street/Craven Street drainage project, and discuss the Urban Forestry Management Plan. The meeting also includes a discussion of duties and responsibilities under the relevant ordinance and a period for public comment.

• Approval of minutes for the October 23 meeting
• Arbor Day Celebration (old business)
• Charles Street/Craven Street drainage project (old business)
• Urban Forestry Management Plan (agenda item)
• Discussion on duties and responsibilities according to the ordinance (new business)

The Park & Tree Advisory Commission approved the minutes of its October 23, 2025 meeting. The committee discussed the Arbor Day celebration, the Charles St/Craven St drainage project, and an Urban Forestry Management Plan, but no formal actions were taken on those topics.

• Approved October 23, 2025 meeting minutes (no vote tally recorded)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will review three applications: a special exception for 510 Ribaut Road, and variances for 2419 Hermitage Road and 2802 Broome Lane. Each item will be discussed and a decision may be made at the November 19 meeting. The meeting is open to the public via Zoom and live‑stream.

• Special Exception – 510 Ribaut Road (Applicant: Alicia D. Hart)
• Variance – 2419 Hermitage Road (Applicant: Scott Qualls, Q Enterprises)
• Variance – 2802 Broome Lane (Applicant: William & Katherine Younce)

General

The Beaufort City Council Worksession will present the Beaufort County Single‑Use Plastic Survey results and recognize several new municipal employees. Council members will discuss short‑term rental issues, participation in CNBC's "Now We Know" documentary series, procurement of noise‑ordinance signs, and the duties of the Parks & Tree Advisory Committee. No formal decisions are indicated in the agenda.

• Presentation of Beaufort County Single‑Use Plastic Survey results
• Discussion of short‑term rental regulations
• Consideration of participation in CNBC’s "Now We Know" documentary series
• Review of procurement for noise‑ordinance signage
• Review of Parks & Tree Advisory Committee duties and responsibilities

The council heard a presentation on the Beaufort County single‑use plastic survey and noted mixed councilmember views on expanding the 2018 plastic‑bag ordinance. Staff briefed members on proposed changes to the Short Term Rental Ordinance, including clustering, wait‑list, and licensing requirements. Mayor Cromer presented a $25,000 opportunity to appear in a CNBC documentary, with funding suggested from the Accommodations Tax Revenue. The Park and Tree Advisory Committee discussed possible role changes, but no formal actions or votes were recorded.

City Council

The City Council will consider amendments to the 2025-2026 budget, including a first reading of an ordinance to ban balloons within the city. The meeting also includes consent agenda items, proclamations, and a request to authorize a contract for Washington Street Park Phase II.

• Amendments to FY 2025-2026 budget (Second Reading)
• Ordinance to ban balloons within the City of Beaufort (First Reading)
• Authorization for Washington Street Park Phase II contract
• Approval of order denying Beaufort Redevelopment Incentive Program Appeal
• Temporary waiver of parking fees in Downtown Marina Parking Lot

The council authorized the City Manager to enter into a contractual agreement for Washington Street Park Phase II. It also approved street closures for the Juneteenth Parade in 2026 and adopted multiple ordinance amendments covering the fiscal‑year budget, garbage collection, business licensing, and balloon releases. The council approved the TDAC State Accommodations Tax Grant award and a memorandum of understanding with Beaufort County for the 1st South Carolina Volunteers of African Descent Park.

• Authorized City Manager to contract Washington Street Park Phase II (unanimous)
• Approved street closures for Juneteenth Parade on June 19, 2026 (unanimous)
• Approved ordinance amendment for FY 2025‑2026 budget (first reading, unanimous)
• Approved ordinance amendment for garbage collection and disposal (first reading, unanimous)
• Approved ordinance amendment to update Business License Class Schedule (first reading, unanimous)
• Approved TDAC State Accommodations Tax Grant award of $616,074 (unanimous)
• Approved resolution opposing erosion control structures at 5 Cane Island Farm Road (unanimous)
• Approved MOU with Beaufort County for 1st SC Volunteers of African Descent Park (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Beaufort County Planning Commission meeting will review two development proposals: an apartment community called The Grove at Broad River submitted by Erick Walsnovich of Woods Partners, and a rebuild of Lady’s Island Middle School proposed by Ward Edwards. The commission will also discuss Chapters 2‑4 of the Development Code and address questions relating to military operations.

• The Grove at Broad River – apartment community proposal by Erick Walsnovich, Woods Partners
• Lady’s Island Middle School – rebuild proposal by Ward Edwards
• Discussion of Chapters 2‑4 of the Development Code
• Questions relating to military operations
• Old Business: review of The Grove at Broad River proposal

General

The Park and Tree Advisory Committee is meeting to discuss a tree removed for the Charles Street Drainage Project. The committee will also discuss its role in preparing a presentation for City Council.

• Discussion regarding tree removal for the Charles Street Drainage Project
• Discussion on committee role for upcoming City Council presentation

The commission passed a motion granting Michael Andersen chair rights for the duration of the emergency meeting. No other substantive actions on the live oak tree removal or drainage project were decided.

• Motion passed to give chair rights to Michael Andersen for the meeting duration

Historic District Review Board

The Historic District Review Board will consider applications for new construction, an addition, and an unpermitted air conditioner installation. The board will also discuss a review board brochure and a customer satisfaction survey form.

• 723 Bay Street: exterior air conditioner installed without a permit
• 1203 Prince Street: new construction
• 1705 Duke Street: new construction
• 1308 Duke Street: addition

The board unanimously approved the October 8, 2025 meeting minutes. It tabled the 723 Bay Street HVAC request and approved the 1203 Prince Street duplex, 1705 Duke Street residence, and 1308 Duke Street bathroom addition, each with staff‑recommended conditions. The board also approved a one‑year extension of the Certificate of Appropriateness for the Justice Square redevelopment. The meeting was adjourned at 4:36 p.m.

• Approved October 8, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Tabled 723 Bay Street HVAC project (unanimous)
• Approved 1203 Prince Street duplex with staff‑recommended revisions (unanimous)
• Approved 1705 Duke Street residence with roof‑slope condition (unanimous)
• Approved 1308 Duke Street bathroom addition with window and stucco conditions (unanimous)
• Approved one‑year COA extension for Justice Square project (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Cultural District Advisory Board

The Cultural District Advisory Board will meet to review previous minutes and reports. The board is scheduled to discuss a maintenance plan and budget for repairing artist benches.

• Update on Arts Festival
• Review of report sent to South Carolina Arts Commission
• Maintenance plan and budget for repairing Artist Benches

General

The Waterfront Advisory Committee will approve minutes from a prior meeting and finalize a public opinion survey regarding Waterfront Park issues. The committee will also hold an executive session to discuss negotiations for contractual arrangements and receive legal advice.

• Approval of minutes from October 6, 2025
• Final approval of public opinion survey on Waterfront Park issues
• Executive session for negotiations and legal advice

The committee approved the October 6, 2025 minutes. Members approved the revised public opinion survey for Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park, including wording changes and an added question on local commerce incentives. Motions to enter and later exit executive session were carried, with no actions taken. The meeting was adjourned by motion.

• Approved October 6, 2025 minutes (motion by Sutton, seconded by Suter)
• Approved revisions to the waterfront park survey (removing "design" wording and adding commerce question)
• Entered executive session (motion by Sutton, seconded by Scallate)
• Exited executive session (motion by Sutton, seconded by Scallate)
• Adjourned meeting (motion by Scallate, seconded by Bartholomew)

Planning Commission

The Beaufort County Planning Commission will hold a work session to discuss revisions to Chapter 4 (Building Design and Infill Standards), Chapter 2 (Maps and Districts), and Chapter 3 (Land Use Provisions) of the comprehensive plan. The commission will also review dates and plans for upcoming holiday training sessions. No formal decisions are indicated on the agenda.

• Discussion of Chapter 4 Building Design and Infill Standards
• Discussion of Chapter 2 Maps and Districts
• Discussion of Chapter 3 Land Use Provisions
• Review of Holiday Training Session dates and plan

Park and Tree Advisory Committee

The committee will approve the September 25th meeting minutes, review responsibility changes, discuss a drainage project with Raul Dominguez, and plan the upcoming Arbor Day celebration. It will also open a segment for new business and public comment.

• Approve September 25th meeting minutes
• Review responsibility changes/work session
• Discuss drainage project with Raul Dominguez
• Plan Arbor Day celebration
• New business and public comment

The commission approved the September 25 minutes. It chose Cuthbert Park as the Arbor Day celebration site, scheduled to start at 10 a.m. The group also agreed to plant an Eastern Redbud in Wilson Park and to have the Arbor Day proclamation signed when presented to council on November 18.

• Approved September 25 minutes (no vote tally recorded)
• Selected Cuthbert Park for Arbor Day celebration at 10 a.m.
• Agreed to plant an Eastern Redbud in Wilson Park (celebration will be elsewhere)
• Arbor Day proclamation will be signed when presented to council on November 18

General

The City of Beaufort Waterfront Advisory Committee will meet to discuss the public survey process. The meeting also includes time for committee and public comments.

• Discussion on the Public Survey Process

The committee designated Ashley Brandon, Public Information Officer, to coordinate outreach for the waterfront park survey. Councilman Scallate will incorporate recommended changes to the survey and present it again at the November 3 meeting. The meeting was adjourned with all members in favor of the motion.

• Assigned Ashley Brandon to coordinate survey outreach (no vote recorded)
• Councilman Scallate to make recommended survey changes and bring back for approval at next meeting (no vote recorded)
• Motion to adjourn carried (unanimous)

General

The City of Beaufort Planning Commission will consider a request to build a two-story mixed-use building at 119 Whitehall Drive. The commission will also discuss Chapters 2, 3, and 4 of the Development Code.

• Proposal for a 4,500 square foot mixed-use building at 119 Whitehall Drive by Court Atkins Architects
• Discussion of Development Code Chapters 2, 3, and 4

The commission unanimously approved the September 8 and September 15 meeting minutes after minor wording corrections. It also approved the Whitehall Café site plan at 119 Whitehall Drive, adding staff recommendations, a parking assignment, and mailbox relocation. No other motions were denied or tabled.

• Approved September 8, 2025 worksession minutes (unanimous)
• Approved September 15, 2025 regular meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved Whitehall Café site plan with staff recommendations, parking assignment, and mailbox relocation (unanimous)
• Adjourned the meeting (unanimous)

City Council

The Beaufort City Council worksession will recognize a new municipal court employee and hear a report from the Waterfront Advisory Committee. Council members will discuss public works contracting options versus in‑house services, and consider the Tourism Development Advisory Committee's recommendation for a state accommodations tax grant award. The meeting also includes discussion of a proposed update to the public camping ordinance and short‑term rental issues.

• Employee New Hire Recognition – Municipal Court – Annalyse Garvey
• Waterfront Advisory Committee Report to Council
• Public Works Contracting Services Compared to In-House Services
• Tourism Development Advisory Committee State Accommodations Tax Grant Award Recommendations
• Public Camping Ordinance Proposed Update

The council voted to bring facilities maintenance services in-house and instructed staff to proceed with a budget amendment for that change. The council also directed that a new request for proposals be issued for street‑sweeping services with a clearer scope of work. No other formal actions were recorded in the meeting.

• Approved in‑house facilities maintenance (budget amendment)
• Approved new street‑sweeping RFP with clarified scope

City Council

The Beaufort City Council will hold a regular meeting to approve agenda items, discuss executive session matters, and consider several ordinances and resolutions. Key actions include a first reading of an ordinance amending the FY 2025‑2026 budget, a resolution to create a historic‑district advisory committee, and authorizations for new contracts. The council will also review a lease ordinance for commercial space at 500 Carteret Street and other community event requests.

• Ordinance to amend City of Beaufort Ordinance 2025/13 for FY 2025‑2026 budget – First Reading
• Resolution to form a Special Purpose Committee advising on Historic District initiatives
• Authorization for City Manager to contract Parking Management and Enforcement Services
• Authorization for City Manager to contract Information Technologies Support Services
• Ordinance for lease of commercial space at 500 Carteret Street to Sea Island Insurance Group, LLC – Second Reading

The council unanimously denied the appeal by HD Acquisition Company regarding a tax reimbursement request under the Beaufort Redevelopment Incentive Program. The council approved a lease of the 500 Carteret Street property to Sea Island Insurance Group, LLC after a 3‑2 vote, while a proposed amendment to the lease terms failed 3‑2. Additional actions approved included contracts for parking management services (4‑1), IT support services, formation of a historic‑district advisory committee, updates to the compensation plan, a budget ordinance first reading, and an auction authorization for the Beaufort History Museum.

• Denied HD Acquisition Company redevelopment incentive appeal (unanimous)
• Approved lease of 500 Carteret Street to Sea Island Insurance Group, LLC (3‑2)
• Rejected amendment to lease terms (3‑2)
• Approved Parking Management and Enforcement Services contract (4‑1)
• Approved Information Technologies Support Services contract (unanimous)
• Approved formation of Special Purpose Committee for Historic District (unanimous)
• Approved update to City Compensation and Classification Plan (unanimous)
• Approved Beaufort History Museum auction resolution (unanimous)

Historic District Review Board

The City of Beaufort Historic District Review Board will meet to consider three applications for property modifications. The board will review requests for security lighting, residential expansions, and outdoor dining improvements.

• 1012 Newcastle Street: request for security lighting installed on a fence
• 506 Craven Street: request for residential alterations, including a new screened porch and a detached 2-car garage with apartment
• 403 Carteret Street: request for canvas shading sails and patio improvements for outdoor dining

The Historic District Review Board unanimously approved the September 10, 2025 minutes. It denied the security‑lighting request for 1012 Newcastle Street, citing non‑compliance with the Preservation Manual. The board unanimously approved the alterations at 506 Craven Street, except for staff recommendations 6 and 7 and required a color pattern. It also unanimously approved the canvas shading sails at 403 Carteret Street based on option 1.

• Approved September 10, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Denied security lighting at 1012 Newcastle Street (unanimous)
• Approved alterations at 506 Craven Street with exception of staff recommendations 6 & 7 and required color pattern (unanimous)
• Approved canvas shading sails at 403 Carteret Street based on option 1 (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

General

The Waterfront Advisory Committee will review its deliverable to the City Council and outline next steps. An executive session is scheduled to discuss negotiations of proposed contractual arrangements and related legal advice. The meeting also includes updates on engineering and communications projects.

• Discussion of Committee’s Deliverable to City Council
• Discussion of Next Steps
• Executive session on negotiations of proposed contractual arrangements
• Engineering Project Update (old business)
• Communications Update (old business)

The Waterfront Advisory Committee approved the meeting agenda and the minutes as amended. Future committee meetings were set for November 3 and December 1, 2025. Members agreed to issue a public survey and scheduled a meeting on October 21, 2025 at 5:00 p.m. to plan the survey. Motions to enter and exit Executive Session and to adjourn were carried unanimously.

• Agenda approval motion carried (all in favor)
• Minutes approved as amended (no vote recorded)
• Future meeting dates confirmed: Nov 3 2025 and Dec 1 2025
• Public survey to be issued – committee agreed
• Meeting scheduled Oct 21 2025, 5:00 p.m. to discuss survey process
• Motion to enter Executive Session carried (all in favor)
• Motion to exit Executive Session carried (all in favor)
• Motion to adjourn carried (all in favor)

General

The City of Beaufort is holding a neighborhood meeting to provide updates on capital projects and city departments. The session includes training on the See Click Fix system.

• See Click Fix training by Nate Farrow
• Capital Projects Update
• Department head updates

Park and Tree Advisory Committee

The Park and Tree Advisory Committee will meet to review the 5 Year Tree Compliance Ordinance. The body will also discuss live oak trees and split rail fencing on Hermitage Rd.

• 5 Year Tree Compliance Ordinance
• Hermitage Rd Split Rail/ Live Oak Trees
• Responsibility Changes/Work Session

The commission approved the August 28th meeting minutes. The members unanimously passed a motion recommending that the development code require resubmission of expired approvals to meet current tree standards. The committee agreed to install split‑rail fencing at Hermitage Road to protect two live oak trees and tasked Adam Wellins with scheduling the work. They also identified Wilson Park on Ribaut Road as a potential site for an understory tree planting.

• Approved August 28th meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Recommended code change to require resubmission of expired development approvals for tree compliance (passed by all three members)
• Agreed to install split‑rail fencing at Hermitage Rd to protect live oak trees (unanimous; Adam Wellins to coordinate with public works)
• Identified Wilson Park on Ribaut Rd as a suitable location for an understory tree (agreement)

General

The City Council and Waterfront Advisory Committee will hold a special joint workshop on September 24, 2025 at City Hall. The agenda includes an engineer’s presentation and roundtable discussion, followed by comments from council members, the advisory committee, and the public. No formal decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Engineer’s presentation and roundtable discussion
• City Council comments
• Waterfront Advisory Committee comments
• Public comment period
• Joint workshop session

The Beaufort County Council and Water Committee were presented with background data on tides, historic flooding, sea‑level rise projections, and a preliminary list of eight design alternatives for the waterfront platform. The presentation covered design considerations, flood pathways, and resilience planning approaches. No formal actions, approvals, or votes were recorded in the minutes.

Planning Commission

The Beaufort County Planning Commission will review meeting minutes and hold a public hearing on proposed changes to the Short Term Rental Ordinance and Accessory Dwelling Unit regulations.

• Review of August 2025 Commission meeting minutes
• Public hearing on Short Term Rental Ordinance changes (Section 3.6.2)
• Public hearing on Accessory Dwelling Unit changes (Sections 3.11.2 and 4.5.3)
• Meeting held at City Hall, 1911 Boundary Street, Beaufort, SC
• Meeting accessible via webinar

The commission approved the August 11 worksession minutes and the August 18 regular meeting minutes, both unanimously. It unanimously recommended that City Council adopt the revised short‑term rental language in Section 3.6.2 and the ADU changes in Sections 3.11.2 and 4.5.3. Future worksession dates for October 6 and November 3, 2025 were also set.

• Approved August 11, 2025 worksession minutes (unanimous)
• Approved August 18, 2025 regular meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Recommended adoption of revised Section 3.6.2 short‑term rental language to City Council (unanimous)
• Recommended adoption of changes to Sections 3.11.2 and 4.5.3 ADU regulations to City Council (unanimous)
• Set future worksession dates: October 6 and November 3, 2025 (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Historic District Review Board

The Historic District Review Board will consider applications for new construction and property alterations. The board is deciding on conceptual and final approvals for two specific residential projects.

• Conceptual approval for a new construction duplex at 811 Congress Street
• Final approval for exterior and interior alterations and additions at 1107 Prince Street

The board approved the August 13, 2025 meeting minutes unanimously. It granted conceptual approval for a new duplex at 811 Congress Street with staff recommendations. It granted final approval for alterations and additions at 1107 Prince Street with staff conditions. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved August 13, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Granted conceptual approval for 811 Congress Street duplex (unanimous)
• Granted final approval for 1107 Prince Street alterations (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (motion passed)

City Council

The Beaufort City Council worksession will consider several proposals, including a new public camping ordinance and traffic calming measures at Bellamy Curve with a possible elevated boardwalk. Other topics include an employee compensation study, gifting items from the Beaufort History Museum collection, and an update to the City Council SOP manual. No final decisions are indicated on the agenda.

• Discussion of Proposed Traffic Calming Measures at Bellamy Curve and Possible Elevated Boardwalk
• Proposed New Public Camping Ordinance
• Proposed Update to the City Council SOP Manual
• Employee Compensation Study Discussion
• Discussion of gifting certain items in the Beaufort History Museum collection

Council expressed support for the South Carolina Department of Transportation's striping plan to calm traffic at Bellamy Curve and will explore adding rumble strips. Council also supported amending the City Council SOP manual to remove language about advisory‑board appointments, with staff to draft a resolution. Staff were directed to prepare a resolution and budget amendment ordinance for Employee Compensation Scenario 3. Additional resolutions will be prepared for museum item gifting and to charter a Historic District Task Force.

• Supported SCDOT traffic‑calming striping plan for Bellamy Curve (no vote recorded)
• Supported amendment to City Council SOP manual to remove advisory‑board appointment clause (no vote recorded)
• Directed staff to prepare a resolution and budget amendment ordinance for Employee Compensation Scenario 3
• Directed staff to prepare a resolution to gift museum items, excluding “Unicyclist sculpture by Arthur Rose”
• Directed staff to draft a resolution to charter Historic District Task Force with nine members

City Council

The Beaufort City Council will consider a resolution authorizing a lease‑purchase financing of six hundred eighty‑four thousand dollars. It will also hold a public hearing and second reading on the sale of city‑owned property at 1101 Coleman Lane, and discuss ordinances regulating golf carts and amending the 2024‑2025 and 2025‑2026 city budgets.

• Resolution authorizing $684,000 lease‑purchase financing
• Ordinance approving sale of city property at 1101 Coleman Lane (public hearing, second reading)
• Ordinance to regulate operation of golf carts (second reading)
• Amendments to city budget ordinances for FY 2024‑2025 and FY 2025‑2026 (second reading)
• Possible reconsideration of lease ordinance for 500 Carteret Street commercial space

The council unanimously approved a $684,000 lease‑purchase financing resolution. It also approved a $20 per square foot lease rate for 500 Carteret Street and rejected a proposed six‑month lease term (2‑3 vote). Additional actions included approving the sale of the 1101 Coleman Lane property, adopting a golf‑cart ordinance amendment, and passing budget amendments for FY 2024‑25 and 2025‑26.

• Approved $684,000 lease‑purchase financing (unanimous)
• Approved $20/sq ft lease rate for 500 Carteret Street (unanimous)
• Rejected six‑month lease term amendment for 500 Carteret Street (2‑3)
• Approved main lease motion for 500 Carteret Street (3‑2)
• Approved sale of city property at 1101 Coleman Lane (unanimous)
• Approved amendment to golf‑cart ordinance (unanimous)
• Approved FY 2024‑25 budget amendment ordinance (unanimous)
• Approved FY 2025‑26 budget amendment ordinance (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Beaufort County Planning Commission worksession will discuss proposed changes to the short‑term rental ordinance (Section 3.6.2) and accessory dwelling unit regulations (Sections 3.11.2 and 4.5.3). It will also review updates to Chapter 2 maps and districts, Chapter 3 land‑use provisions, and Chapter 4 building design and infill standards. No decisions are recorded in the agenda.

• Short Term Rental Ordinance Changes, Section 3.6.2
• Accessory Dwelling Unit Changes, Sections 3.11.2 and 4.5.3
• Chapter 2 Maps and Districts
• Chapter 3 Land Use Provisions
• Chapter 4 Building Design and Infill Standards

The commission voted to remove the IC zoning designation from the permitted districts and to prohibit short‑term rentals where the owner does not live on the premises. It kept the language of item 8(d) in the Short‑Term Rental Permit unchanged. Staff were tasked to review section references, parking requirements, and safety‑inspection verification. The commission also discussed accessory dwelling unit proposals but made no final decisions on them.

• Agreed to remove the IC zoning designation from the permitted districts and to prohibit owner‑absent STRs
• Agreed to keep Short‑Term Rental Permit item 8(d) unchanged
• Assigned staff to double‑check Section 3.6.2.C.2 reference in the Development Code
• Assigned staff to review parking requirement language (one space per unit vs. two or three)
• Assigned staff to look into adding owner certification and annual safety‑inspection verification
• Agreed to address the lack of listed work sessions online by contacting the City Manager
• Agreed to schedule regular work sessions for the first Monday of each month
• Noted future discussion on accessory dwelling unit changes, no decision made

General

The Waterfront Advisory Committee will discuss the Phase 1A Deliverable Report for the Waterfront Engineering Study. The body will also receive communication updates from the Bureau of Coastal Management and SC PRT/National Park Service.

• Waterfront Engineering Study Phase 1A Deliverable Report
• Communication updates from Bureau of Coastal Management
• Communication updates from SC PRT/National Park Service
• Executive session for contractual negotiations and legal advice

The Waterfront Advisory Committee approved its agenda and the August 4 minutes. It set November 3 and December 1, 2025 as future meeting dates. The committee entered and later exited an executive session, then adjourned.

• Approved meeting agenda (motion carried)
• Approved August 4, 2025 minutes (motion carried)
• Approved November 3, 2025 meeting date (motion carried)
• Approved December 1, 2025 meeting date (motion carried)
• Entered executive session (motion carried)
• Exited executive session (motion carried)
• Adjourned meeting (motion carried)

Park and Tree Advisory Committee

The Park and Tree Advisory Committee will approve the July 24th meeting minutes, review the Driftwood Project locations and artist, and hold a work session on PTAC responsibility changes. No final decisions are noted in the agenda.

• Approval of minutes for the July 24th meeting
• Driftwood Project – locations and artist discussion
• PTAC responsibility changes – work session

General

The Beaufort City Council held a special worksession to receive a Capital Projects Update and to discuss employee compensation. No specific actions or votes were listed on the agenda.

• Capital Projects Update – presentation
• Employee Compensation Discussion – discussion

The council reviewed updates on multiple capital improvement projects, including King Street, Waterfront Park, and Southside Park Phase 2. They also examined four employee compensation scenarios presented by the City Manager and Finance Director, discussing impacts and potential adjustments. No formal approvals, rejections, or votes were recorded during the session.

General

The Beaufort City Council will meet in a special session to consider contractual agreements in a closed executive session. The meeting also includes routine items such as call to order, pledge of allegiance, public comment, and adjournment. No specific contracts or dollar amounts are listed in the agenda.

• Executive Session – discussion regarding contractual agreements

The council voted to enter and later exit executive session. It approved authorizing Mayor Cromer to retain Haynsworth Sinkler Boyd, PA for legal advice on a July 29 FOIA information release. The meeting was adjourned by unanimous consent.

• Entered executive session (all in favor)
• Exited executive session (all in favor)
• Authorized Mayor to retain Haynsworth Sinkler Boyd for FOIA legal advice (all in favor)
• Adjourned meeting (all in favor)

General

The Beaufort City Council worksession on August 19, 2025 will discuss several topics. Council members will review the results of the fire‑truck leasing bank bid, consider parking options for downtown business employees, and examine short‑term rental policies. Additional items include the Brightly Asset Management System, a Tiger Team study, and a historic program initiative/subcommittee. No formal decisions are indicated in the agenda.

• Review of fire‑truck leasing bank bid RFP results
• Discussion of employee parking for downtown businesses
• Consideration of short‑term rental policies
• Review of Brightly Asset Management System
• Tiger Team study and historic program initiative/subcommittee

The Beaufort City Council worksession covered downtown employee parking concerns, a draft short‑term rental ordinance, the selection of a Bank of America lease for a new fire truck (with a formal resolution planned for September 9), and a new Brightly asset‑management system for Public Works. No formal votes or approvals were recorded.

General

The Beaufort City Council will hold a regular meeting to approve several ordinances and contracts. Items include the first‑reading ordinance to sell the city‑owned property at 1101 Coleman Lane and a first‑reading lease of commercial space at 500 Carteret Street to Sea Island Insurance Group, LLC. The council will also take second‑reading votes on amendments to the Development Code and on naming projects, and will consider budget amendment ordinances for fiscal years 2024‑2025 and 2025‑2026.

• Ordinance to approve sale of real property at 1101 Coleman Lane – First Reading
• Ordinance for lease of commercial space at 500 Carteret Street to Sea Island Insurance Group, LLC – First Reading
• Ordinance amending Chapter 7 and Chapter 9 of the Beaufort Development Code – Second Reading
• Ordinance to rename Southside Loop in Southside Park as Clayton Cooler Loop – Second Reading
• Ordinance to amend City of Beaufort Budget for FY 2024‑2025 and FY 2025‑2026 – First Reading

The Beaufort City Council unanimously approved the meeting agenda, a proclamation for Sand Shark Welcome Week, and the consent agenda items. It adopted a series of amendments to Chapters 7, 9, and 5 of the Beaufort Development Code and passed a Nuisance Abatement Ordinance. The council also authorized a lease of commercial space at 500 Carteret Street and approved permits for several community events.

• Approved meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Approved proclamation designating Aug 18‑22, 2025 as USCB Sand Shark Welcome Week (unanimous)
• Adopted amendments to Chapters 7, 9, and 5 of the Beaufort Development Code (unanimous)
• Approved Nuisance Abatement Ordinance for the City of Beaufort (unanimous)
• Approved lease of commercial space at 500 Carteret Street to Sea Island Insurance Group, LLC (first reading)
• Approved JP Signature Events request for 3rd Annual Music Festival, waiving parking fees only (unanimous)
• Approved Historic Beaufort Foundation request for 2025 Fall Festival of Houses & Gardens (unanimous)
• Approved NAMI 5K Walk request with road closures on May 16, 2026 (unanimous)

General

The Beaufort County Planning Commission meeting will include routine items such as approval of minutes and a question period on military operations. The primary substantive agenda item is a discussion of policies for accessory dwelling units (ADUs) and short‑term rentals (STRs). No decisions are recorded in the agenda; the commission will consider these topics during the meeting.

• Review and approval of July 7, 2025 worksession minutes
• Review and approval of July 21, 2025 regular meeting minutes
• Questions relating to military operations
• Discussion of Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) and Short‑Term Rentals (STRs)

The commission unanimously approved the July 7, 2025 worksession minutes and the July 21, 2025 regular meeting minutes. Members agreed to hold future work sessions on the first Monday of each month, with specific sessions scheduled for September 8 and October 6, 2025 at 1:00 pm. The meeting was adjourned by unanimous vote.

• Approved July 7, 2025 worksession minutes (unanimous)
• Approved July 21, 2025 regular meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Agreed to hold monthly worksessions on the first Monday; scheduled 9/8/2025 (Tue) 1 pm and 10/6/2025 (Mon) 1 pm
• Motion to adjourn meeting passed unanimously

Historic District Review Board

The Historic District Review Board will review minutes from the May 14, June 11, and July 9, 2025 meetings. It will also consider an application for an addition at 404 Scott Street submitted by architect Thomas Rhodes.

• Review May 14, 2025 meeting minutes
• Review June 11, 2025 meeting minutes
• Review July 9, 2025 meeting minutes
• Consider addition application for 404 Scott Street (PIN R120 004 000 0809 0000) by Thomas Rhodes

The Historic District Review Board approved the minutes from the May 14, June 11 and July 9 meetings unanimously. It then approved the addition project at 404 Scott Street, removing the roof‑color comment but keeping all other staff recommendations, also unanimously. The meeting was adjourned by unanimous vote.

• Approved May 14, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved June 11, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved July 9, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved 404 Scott Street addition, removing roof‑color comment (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

General

The City of Beaufort Planning Commission is holding a worksession and training meeting. Members will discuss potential improvements to building design requirements and the scope of changes to Chapters 2, 3, and 4 of the Code.

• Discussion on improving Building Design requirements in the Code
• Discussion on scope of changes to Chapters 2, 3, and 4
• Exchange on Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), Short-Term-Rentals, and affordable housing options
• Scheduling of future Code changes

The commission reached consensus to prioritize parking, shared parking, impact analyses, street connectivity, and pedestrian access in future code revisions. They scheduled the August 18 regular meeting for public input on ADUs, short‑term rentals and affordable housing, and tasked Commissioner Kim McFann with contacting City Information Officer Ashley Brandon to publicize it. The commission also agreed to continue monthly work sessions and publicize them until the code revision process is finished.

• Prioritized parking, impact analyses, stacking capacity, street network and pedestrian access as critical issues for code revisions (consensus)
• Scheduled August 18 regular Planning Commission meeting for public input on ADUs, short‑term rentals and affordable housing (agreed)
• Assigned Commissioner Kim McFann to contact City Information Officer Ashley Brandon to publicize the August 18 meeting and future sessions (agreed)
• Decided to continue monthly work sessions and publicize them until the code revision process is complete (agreed)

General

The board will review the minutes from the July 16, 2025 meeting. It will receive an update on the Arts Festival, discuss repairs to the Artist Benches, and consider a report sent to the South Carolina Arts Commission.

• Review of minutes of July 16, 2025
• Update on Arts Festival
• Repairing of the Artist Benches
• Review report sent to South Carolina Arts Commission

The Cultural District Advisory Board unanimously approved the minutes from the July 16, 2025 meeting. It also adopted a maintenance plan to keep the existing artist benches for two years, with a reevaluation after that period.

• Approved July 16, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Adopted two-year artist bench maintenance plan (unanimous)

General

The Waterfront Advisory Committee will review an update on the Waterfront Park Engineering Study and discuss the committee's priorities and work plan. The meeting includes an executive session for legal advice and contractual negotiations.

• Waterfront Park Engineering Study update
• Communications status with SC PRT and NPS
• Discussion of priorities and work plan
• Executive session regarding proposed contractual arrangements and legal advice

The committee moved the September 1 meeting to September 2 due to the Labor Day holiday. Members approved a motion for staff to reach out to the Bureau of Coastal Management to clarify permitting for backfilling versus tearing down the waterfront park. The committee entered and later exited executive session, with no actions taken. The meeting was adjourned at 7:14 PM.

• Approved minutes from June 23, 2025 (motion by Councilman Scallate, seconded by Bill Suter, Mike Sutton abstained)
• Moved September 1, 2025 meeting to September 2, 2025 (no vote recorded)
• Approved request for staff to contact Bureau of Coastal Management on park permitting (motion carried)
• Entered executive session (motion carried)
• Exited executive session (motion carried)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:14 PM (motion carried)