At the September 12, 2024, Summerville Town Council meeting, the council took significant steps in public health, community development, and storm preparedness. The meeting, held at the Council Chambers, featured key decisions, including a unanimous vote to ban smoking and vaping in town-owned parks and public areas. The council also recognized local heroes and moved forward with plans for a town debris site.
Council Honors Local Heroes
The meeting began on a high note as the council recognized firefighters who recently saved a child from drowning. This moment of appreciation for Summerville's first responders set a tone of community pride and gratitude.
Dorchester Heritage Center to Host the Wall That Heals
The Dorchester Heritage Center gave a presentation highlighting their upcoming event, "The Wall That Heals," a traveling replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. The wall will arrive on September 15 and remain for five days, giving Summerville residents the opportunity to honor and remember those who served.
Smoking and Vaping Ban Approved
One of the most significant agenda items was the introduction of an ordinance to prohibit smoking and vaping in town-owned recreational facilities, parks, playgrounds, and public areas. Councilwoman Kima Garten-Schmidt introduced an amendment to include special town events such as Third Thursday, Saturday Market, and the Flowertown Festival under the ban. Councilman Aaron Brown voiced the need for a clear penalty, which the town attorney clarified would be either a $500 fine or up to 30 days in jail for violators.
The council unanimously passed both the amendment and the ordinance, marking a major step in creating healthier, smoke-free environments in public spaces. This decision reflects the town’s commitment to promoting public health and ensuring Summerville’s parks and events are safe and welcoming to all.
Other Key Decisions
Employee Handbook Approved: Councilmembers Richard Waring and Matt Halter moved to approve the town's updated employee handbook, which passed unanimously.
Rezoning Approvals: The council passed two rezoning measures. A 4.67-acre property at 122 Pebbles Lane was rezoned from General Residential to Agricultural Conservation, and a land swap involving properties on White Boulevard and Pamela Lane was also approved.
Unified Development Ordinance Changes: The council unanimously approved the first readings of two amendments to the Unified Development Ordinance (UDO). One removes the town's indemnification clause, and the other corrects an error in the appeal process for denied building permits.
New Debris Site Considered: A proposal for a temporary town-owned debris site was discussed, with Councilman Waring emphasizing the importance of having a facility for post-storm cleanup. The site, located adjacent to Lincolnville, was approved, with a request for staff to develop a buffer zone for surrounding areas. Councilman Halter suggested the town notify Lincolnville officials about the plans.
Sweet Tea Festival Road Closure Approved: A request from Summerville DREAM to close West Richardson Avenue for the Sweet Tea Festival was approved with one vote opposed.
Oakbrook Middle School Addition: The council unanimously approved the site plan for new additions to Oakbrook Middle School.
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