Planning Commission
Regular MeetingFort Mill, SC · July 21, 2020
Minutes
MINUTES
TOWN OF FORT MILL
PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING
July 21, 2020
Virtual Meeting
Live Viewing Online: Request Access by emailing before 5:00 pm on Tuesday, July 21st, 2020 to
Penelope G. Karagounis, Planning Director at pkaragounis@fortmillsc.gov
Public Access by Phone: Dial (toll free) 1-877-309-2073
and use access code 136-060-525
AGENDA
6:30 PM
Present: James Traynor, Hynek Lettang, Matthew Lucarelli, Dan Stout, Chris Wolfe, Planning
Director Penelope Karagounis, and Senior Planner Alex Moore
Guests: Philip Hayes (Land Development Resources), Nick Bushon (Design Resource Group),
Nicole Gaunt (Citizen) and Jamie Rose (Citizen)
Absent: Andy Agrawal and Ben Hudgins
Chairman Traynor called the meeting to order at 6:30 pm.
Chairman Traynor gave opportunity to the Planning Commission to review and comment on the
May 19th, 2020 meeting minutes as presented within the meeting packet. There being no
discussion, Chairman Traynor asked for a motion to approve the minutes. Chris Wolfe made a
motion to approve the minutes as submitted. Hynek Lettang seconded the motion. By a vote of
5-0, the Planning Commission approved the May 19th, 2020 meeting minutes.
Chairman Traynor gave opportunity to the Planning Commission to review and comment on the
June 16th, 2020 meeting minutes as presented within the meeting packet. There being no
discussion, Chairman Traynor asked for a motion to approve the minutes. Chris Wolfe made a
motion to approve the minutes as submitted. Hynek Lettang seconded the motion. By a vote of
5-0, the Planning Commission approved the June 16th, 2020 meeting minutes.
Chairman Traynor then invited the respective guests attending the meeting virtually to introduce
themselves:
• Jamie Rose – 811 Savannah Place Drive, Fort Mill, SC 29715
Planning Director Penelope Karagounis then introduced the applicant for the new business item
on the agenda along with his design professional:
• Philip Hayes of Land Development Resources
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• Nick Bushon of Design Resource Group
NEW BUSINESS ITEMS
1. Sketch Plan: West Hensley Road Subdivision
Senior Planner Moore introduced the subdivision sketch plan for the proposed project on
W. Hensley Road. The property is located on the north side of W. Hensley Road. It is
located ± 548 feet from N. Doby’s Bridge Road and ± 1,770 feet from Fort Mill Parkway.
Moore stated that the property consists of ± 8.2 acres and is currently comprised of 4
parcels of property. The adjacent zoning districts include R-15 (Town of Fort Mill), RC-I
(York County), and RD-I (York County). The sketch plan review is the first of several
review stages in the Town of Fort Mill process.
In addition to the sketch plan, these include the preliminary plat review, civil construction
plan review, and final plat review. With the sketch plan review, we are looking at the basic
components of this project. The entirety of this project area is zoned R-5. It should be noted
that the R-5 zoning designation is a legacy district. This means that no such new district
can be added to the official zoning map. Also, the boundaries of an existing legacy district
cannot be expanded.
The minimum allowed lot size within this proposed project is 5,000 square feet. An exterior
buffer, 35’ in width, is required along the perimeter of this project. The applicant does have
the option, per the zoning ordinance, of reducing this buffer by 25% provided that a 6-foot
tall opaque wall in constructed upon the project boundary, adjacent to the area which is
reduced.
Moore then noted that while the minimum 20% open space requirement is met, we would
like to see such areas “amenitized”. This could include a usable trail-system within the
buffer areas connecting to an exercise area in the vicinity of the pond.
Any tree on the property that is 30” or greater in diameter at 4.5’ from the ground will need
to either be saved or mitigated. Such a tree can be mitigated with two, like-species, 3”
caliper trees. So, this plan indicates 24 single-family lots for an overall project density of
2.92 DU/AC. The R-5 Zoning District allows a max density of 3 DU/AC.
It is anticipated that this will be an age-restricted residential subdivision. Our Zoning
Ordinance requires a Traffic Impact Analysis (TIA) when a project is expected to generate
400 daily trips or 100 or more peak-hour trips. So, with this project we instead have a
Transportation Technical Memorandum (TTM) because the projected trips fall below this.
This is summarized in Table 1 within the TTM and indicates that the site is expected to
generate 280 daily trips, along with 22 AM Peak Hour Trips and 26 PM Peak Hour Trips.
Moore then briefly discussed the likely outcomes of the project if it became age restricted.
This could have the potential of a 42% overall reduction from that at 162 daily trips, along
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with 14 AM peak trips, and 16 PM trips. The TTM did note the existence of driveways
near the proposed project. SCDOT is aware of this as well. However, they seem to be
generally amenable to the project if the existing 12’ wide access easement to the west of
the project is removed.
Moore then opened the floor to questions.
Planning Commission member Chris Wolfe questioned the validity of the R-5 zoning
designation for the project area. He noted his belief that the Town’s intention was to
eliminate R-5 zoning.
Planning Director Penelope Karagounis clarified that the project area was indeed R-5 and
thus, it was considered a legacy zoning district. This means that in the Town of Fort Mill,
existing R-5 zoning districts cannot be expanded and that new R-5 zoning districts cannot
be created.
Chris Wolfe noted that the existing R-5 zoning was still problematic due to it being the
basis of the current proposal, which in his view, resulted in a project with little benefit to
the town or to its future residents. His general feeling was that the sketch plan
communicated a desire for maximized density while delivering negligible benefits due to
a lack of usable open space.
Chairman Traynor echoed Planning Commissioner Wolfe’s thoughts on the plan.
Philip Hayes, the applicant, then interjected that it was his intent to include usable open
space within the project. Mr. Hayes stated that the project would indeed be age restricted
to facilitate the large demand for such housing within this real estate market.
Returning to the subject of open space, Mr. Hayes noted the existing pond on the property
as illustrated on the submitted sketch plan. He stated that behind the pond and in within
this general section of the project that a small community amenity would be constructed.
This would likely include a gazebo, a firepit, an area for grilling out, picnic tables/benches,
along with a walking trail from this section of the project, along the existing creek, back
toward the front of the property. Here there might be some type of secondary amenity near
the mail kiosk.
Chairman Traynor noted that this proposal sounded interesting and stated that the
subsequent preliminary plan would allow for these ideas be fleshed out and revealed in
more detail.
Chairman Traynor noted to the guests attending the virtual meeting that the preliminary
plat would come back before Planning Commission at another public meeting.
Planning Commission member Matthew Lucarelli then spoke on the project. He noted that
generally he was in favor of such use-by-right development as had been presented on the sketch
plan. It meets the intent of the zoning ordinance. However, Mr. Lucarelli also stated that there
should be a measure of care taken by the developer on this project. Specifically, Mr. Lucarelli
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noted that the plan left the impression of maximum lot-yield rather than designing with the
existing natural elements of the property in mind. In this regard, he noted that lot number 7 as
indicated on the sketch plan, if removed, would add a great deal of open space character within
the project.
Planning Commissioner Hynek Lettang agreed with Mr. Lucarelli and noted that this was a
great suggestion and that he would support such a proposal to use the area comprising lot 7 as
open space.
Planning Director Penelope Karagounis then stated that before one of the citizen guests spoke,
she would like to give all the Planning Commissioners an opportunity to speak and ask
questions.
Chairman Traynor then asked Planning Commission members if they had any further questions
or comments on the sketch plan as presented.
Planning Commission member Chris Wolfe then asked Senior Planner Alex Moore if he had
been able to have preliminary discussion with the fire marshal on the ability of emergency
vehicles to maneuver in and out of the project.
Moore stated that there had been no comments generated by the fire marshal on the cul-de-
sacs. Additionally, he noted that the cul-de-sacs as presented represented the standard town
approved design. He recommended that the applicant include an exhibit in the preliminary plat-
set illustrating that emergency vehicles can navigate the cul-de-sacs as designed.
Chairman Traynor then asked if there would be landscaping material within the center of the
cul-de-sacs.
Mr. Hayes responded that the center of the cul-de-sacs would be landscaped.
Planning Commission member Dan Stout then asked what the distance was between lot number
7 and the existing pond as shown on the sketch plan.
Mr. Hayes noted that the pond was a natural pond that was essentially fed via runoff from the
site. He stated that he was not sure at this juncture how this would continue, whether by an
artificial water source or by natural flow.
Senior Planner Moore then stated that the distance from the pond to lot 7 was approximately
nine feet at the shortest point.
Planning Commissioner Chris Wolfe then asked Moore about the requirement of sidewalk
within the project and if these were located within the right-of-way.
Moore stated that sidewalks were shown on both sides of the internal streets as required and
that the sidewalks were principally located within the right-of-way except for within the cul-
de-sacs. He noted that those portions of the sidewalk located on private lots would require an
easement.
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Planning Commissioner Hynek Lettang then asked what the proposed price point for the homes
would be.
Mr. Hayes said that he had not established who the builder would be but estimated that the
price point would be $350,000 to $375,000.
Planning Commission member Matthew Lucarelli then asked about the existing 12’ wide
access easement located near the proposed ingress/egress point at W. Hensley Road as denoted
on the sketch plan. He expressed concern to Senior Planner Moore about potential conflicts
with the main project drive.
Moore stated that he believed that planning staff would prefer for this 12’ wide access easement
to be removed. He then asked Mr. Hayes if this would be possible.
Mr. Hayes stated that they could potentially relocate the driveway from the current location
and connect it perpendicularly into the main project road.
Planning Commission member Matthew Lucarelli clarified that his preference would be for
this portion of the driveway to be eliminated rather than having in connect back into the main
project road as Mr. Hayes described.
Moore asked Mr. Hayes if he could pursue the elimination of this portion of the existing,
circular drive.
Mr. Hayes stated that he would indeed pursue this.
Chairman Traynor then asked about the potential cost of the planned low-pressure sewer
system for this project.
Mr. Hayes stated that there would be an additional cost of $7,500 per lot for this system.
Chairman Traynor also noted that there would typically be an annual maintenance fee for this
type of system.
Mr. Hayes concurred and noted that the maintenance fee would be part of the HOA payment
on the part of homeowners. Additionally, Mr. Hayes stated that his development group had
pioneered the use of this type of system within York County in the Lake Wylie area. He went
on to explain that with low pressure sewer systems there is typically an annual inspection and
annual maintenance. The HOA would be responsible for ensuring these are done.
Planning Commissioner Dan Stout noted that within his development, he has a grinder pump
system. However, with his system, it is up to the individual homeowner to schedule inspection
and maintenance rather than the HOA.
Chairman Traynor noted his preference for HOA purview of this system.
Planning Commissioner Chris Wolfe then reiterated his desire for this project to lessen its
density and upgrade open space components.
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Chairman Traynor agreed and stated his desire that the project be adequately buffered with
appropriate landscaping.
Mr. Hayes then stated that prior to preliminary plat submittal that they will complete a tree
survey of the project site. The survey will delineate those specimens that need to be either
saved or mitigated. He noted that this exercise will also identify the existing vegetation that
may be used toward achieving the required landscaping within the perimeter buffer.
Chairman Traynor then asked Mr. Hayes if perimeter fencing would be comprised of masonry
material as noted within the meeting packet.
Mr. Hayes responded that for the fencing that they would meet the required opacity per the
zoning ordinance.
Senior Planner Moore then noted that Mr. Hayes had indicated in a previous response to
comments from town staff that the perimeter wall would be masonry.
Mr. Hayes responded that he would need to investigate this further and that perhaps he might
not use a wall but rather use only landscaping materials within the buffer. He stated that this
would be clarified with his preliminary plat submittal.
Chairman Traynor then stated that if there were no more questions from commission members,
that he would now turn the floor over to meeting guests to ask questions.
Jamie Rose then asked about the need for this project to tie into adjoining neighborhoods for
water, sewer, or retention ponds.
Senior Planner Moore stated that there would not be any off-site retention ponds for this
project. He then asked Mr. Hayes if his team had determined if they would need to tie into
utilities within adjacent neighborhoods.
Mr. Hayes said it was his intent to only tie into a low-pressure sewer system owned by the
town.
Chairman Traynor then asked if the town had any water and sewer in this vicinity.
Nick Bushon of Design Resource Group then note that there did indeed exist town utilities in
the project vicinity. He stated that they had received utility as-builts on the adjacent street to
possibly tie into. However, the topography of the property, in that everything flows north to
south, did not lend itself to easily tying to existing utilities in the adjacent neighborhood to the
east.
Chairman Traynor then asked if commission members had any further questions about the
sketch plan as presented.
There being no further questions, Chairman Traynor asked Planning Director Penelope
Karagounis how the commission’s action on the sketch plan should be stated considering the
concerns raised within the meeting. He further indicated that an approval of the sketch would
in no way obligate the Planning Commission to approve the subsequent preliminary plat.
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Planning Director Karagounis concurred with Chairman Traynor and reiterated that Planning
Commission would be seeing a much more detailed preliminary plat that should be addressing
the stated concerns.
There being no other questions or comments, Chairman Traynor entertained a motion from
Planning Commission members.
Planning Commission member Matthew Lucarelli noted again that the sketch plan complied
from a “by-right” standpoint with the R-5 zoning designation. He then prefaced his desire to
make a motion to approve the sketch plan with a request that Planning Commission work with
Mr. Hayes as a team to determine the best possible solutions to the questions raised at the
meeting which included concerns with adequate open space, the existence of the ancillary 12’
driveway from the Snead property, adequate landscaping, etc.
Chairman Traynor concurred with the sentiment as stated by Planning Commissioner Lucarelli.
He also noted that the project as presented was a use-by-right but also reiterated that important
questions and concerns had been raised by Planning Commission. He stated that he saw this as
simply and opportunity for the developer to move forward and come up with answers.
Senior Planner Moore then noted that there would be a 30-day review of the initial preliminary
plat submittal by the town and that staff would not bring the project back to Planning
Commission until it was corrected.
Planning Commissioner Matthew Lucarelli then made a motion to approve the sketch plan with
notation of deficiencies as previously stated, which would be addressed at preliminary plat
submittal.
Planning Commissioner Dan Stout seconded the motion.
The Planning Commission then voted 5-0 to approve the sketch plan as noted within the
motion.
Mr. Hayes then expressed his thanks to Planning Commission.
Chairman Traynor then formally welcomed Planning Commissioner Dan Stout to the board as
this was his first meeting.
Planning Commissioner Stout stated that he was glad to be involved.
There being no other business, Chairman Traynor adjourned the meeting at 7:32 PM.
Respectfully submitted
Alex J. Moore, AICP
Senior Planner
August 5th, 2020
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Agenda
TOWN OF FORT MILL
PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING
July 21, 2020
6:30 PM
Live Viewing Online: Request Access by emailing before 5:00 pm on Tuesday, July 21st, 2020 to
Penelope G. Karagounis, Planning Director at pkaragounis@fortmillsc.gov
Public Access by Phone: Dial (toll free) 1-877-309-2073
and use access code 136-060-525
AGENDA
1. Regular Meeting: May 19, 2020 [Pages 2-6]
2. Regular Meeting: June 16, 2020 [Pages 7-7]
NEW BUSINESS ITEMS
1. Sketch Plan: West Hensley Road Subdivision [Pages 8-17]
Request from Philip Hayes to review a sketch plan for a proposed subdivision on West
Hensley Road.
ADJOURN
The following press was notified of the meeting by email or fax in accordance of the Freedom of Information Act: The
Herald; CN2; WRHI; Fort Mill Times and WBTV. The agenda was also posted at the entrance to Town Hall the required
length of time and on the Town website.
The Town of Fort Mill is committed to assuring accessibility with reasonable accommodation, of Town services and
facilities for all individuals, in compliance with federal law. Please contact the Town Manager’s Office at 803-547
2116 if you need assistance.
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MINUTES
TOWN OF FORT MILL
PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING
May 19, 2020
112 Confederate Street
6:30 PM
Present: James Traynor, Tom Petty, Hynek Lettang, Matthew Lucarelli, Chris Wolfe, Ben
Hudgins, Planning Director Penelope Karagounis, and Planner Alex Moore
Guests: Faye Lindsay and Brandon Colberg
Chairman Traynor called the meeting to order at 6:30 pm.
Chairman Traynor mentioned that on page 2 of the meeting minutes a phrase was written twice
and needed to delete it. Planning Director Karagounis noted the change. After discussion and
with no further questions or comments the Chairman asked for a motion. Mr. Wolfe made a
motion to approve the minutes from April 21, 2020 Planning Commission meeting with the
above change. Mr. Lucarrelli seconded the motion. The minutes were approved by a vote of
6-0.
NEW BUSINESS ITEMS
1. Text Amendment: Lot Variance Request:
Senior Planner Moore introduced a subdivision variance request from Ms. Faye Lindsay, owner
of 137 Forrest Street and Mr. Brandon Colberg, owner of 311 Confederate Street. Both properties
are zoned R-15, single-family residential. The minimum lot size for this zoning district is 15,000
square feet.
Moore noted that the specific request was to convey a portion of the legally non-conforming parcel
at 311 Confederate Street to the parcel located at 137 Forrest Street. The area of conveyance was
proposed to be approximately 1,290 square feet.
The current lot sizes included 9,583 square feet at 311 Confederate Street and 24,394 square feet
at 137 Forrest Street. Upon conveyance, the parcel at 311 Confederate Street would consist of
±8,293 square feet and the parcel at 137 Forrest Street would then consist of ±25,684 square feet.
The parcel at 311 Confederate Street contains a legally, non-conforming duplex. Senior Planner
Moore noted that York County land records indicated that the duplex has been in existence since
at least 1947. Thus, it was constructed well before The Town of Fort Mill established zoning in
1969. In addition to the duplex use being nonconforming, the existing side-setbacks are also
nonconforming, with approximately 4.77 feet and 8.75 feet respectively being observed via GIS
measurement.
Moore then presented the existing and proposed setback configuration for the duplex at 311
Confederate Street. The only setback proposed for change would be the rear. This setback would
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be approximately 38.47 feet after conveyance, thus still exceeding the minimum required R-15
rear setback of 35 feet.
Senior Planner Moore then presented the specific findings required for granting a variance from
the Town of Fort Mill subdivision ordinance:
Sec. 32-11. Variance. Whenever the tract to be subdivided is of such unusual size or shape
or is surrounded by such development or unusual conditions that the strict application of
the requirements contained in the chapter would result in substantial hardship or inequity,
the planning commission may vary or modify, except as otherwise indicated, requirements
of design, but not of procedure or improvements, so that the subdivider may develop his
property in a reasonable manner, but so, at the same time, the public welfare is protected
and the general intent and spirit of this chapter is preserved. Such modification may be
granted upon written request of the subdivider stating the reasons for each modification
and may be waived by an affirmative vote of two-thirds of the membership of the planning
commission.
Additionally, Moore noted that Planning Commission could place conditions on a subdivision
variance as granted:
Sec. 32-12. Conditions of Modification. In granting variations and modifications, the
planning commission may require such conditions as will, in its judgment, secure
substantially the objectives of the standards or requirements so varied or modified.
Subsequently, Senior Planner Moore presented the Planning Staff recommendation on the variance
request:
The regulations which apply to the R-15 District are designed to encourage the formation and
continuance of a stable, healthy environment for one-family dwellings situated on lots of at least
15,000 square feet, and to discourage any encroachment by commercial, industrial, or other uses
capable of adversely affecting the residential character of the district.
The applicant does not face a substantial hardship or inequity in being required to adhere to the
current subdivision ordinance.
Conversely, though this proposal does not bring the parcel at 311 Confederate Street into
conformity, the conveyance does not endanger the public welfare. The existing residential
character of the neighborhood will remain intact. Thus, the general intent and spirit of the
subdivision ordinance is upheld.
Therefore, Planning Staff recommends that this application for a lot variance be approved, with
the condition that a minimum rear-setback of 35 feet be maintained for the lot at 311 Confederate
Street. However, this request is ultimately at the discretion of the Planning Commission.
Senior Planner Moore opened the meeting up to questions from the applicants and Planning
Commissioners.
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Mr. Brandon Colberg, the owner of the property at 311 Confederate Street and one of the
applicants, asked about the minimum rear-yard setback of 35.’
Moore then noted that the prepared exhibit within the packet indicated that there would be
approximately 38’ from the existing duplex to the rear property line after the conveyance to the
adjacent property at 137 Forrest Street.
Mr. Colberg then asked how the rear-yard setback would be measured in relation to a hypothetical
uncovered deck.
Senior Planner Moore stated that the minimum 35’ rear-yard setback would be measured from the
uncovered deck. However, subsequent to the meeting, Planning Staff determined that in the
instance of an uncovered deck, the minimum rear-yard setback would be 5’ rather than 35.’ Senior
Planner Moore promptly called Mr. Colberg to inform him that an uncovered deck could be a
minimum of 5’ from the rear property line rather than a minimum of 35’.
Planning Commissioner Chris Wolfe then asked Senior Planner Moore about the variance request
regarding who would be the appropriate applicant, and who applied for the variance.
Ms. Faye Lindsay responded that she applied for the variance.
Mr. Wolfe indicated that he believed that Mr. Colberg should be the applicant for the variance
since the request specifically involved his property.
Ms. Lindsay responded that she and Mr. Colberg had agreed to the variance application after she
had reached out to Mr. Colberg about selling a portion of his property. Ms. Lindsay then indicated
that she then sent in the letter requesting the variance.
Mr. Colberg then responded and affirmed what Ms. Lindsay stated and noted that she had taken
the lead on submitting the application materials.
Planning Commissioner Ben Hudgins then asked what the motivation behind the variance request
was.
Ms. Lindsay responded that she simply wanted more of a rectangular rear yard that could be fenced
in. She stated that she had no intent to sell or develop the property after purchasing this additional
property to be conveyed.
Planning Commission Chairman James Traynor then asked Planning Staff if anything could
happen on these lots that is different than is currently allowed, assuming the variance and
subsequent property conveyance took place. Specifically, Mr. Traynor was inquiring about the
nature of the existing non-conformity at 311 Confederate Street.
Senior Planner Moore responded that if the variance were approved that the duplex at 311
Confederate Street would remain legally, non-conforming. He also noted that the single-family
residence at 137 Forrest Street must remain as single-family only.
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Chairman Traynor then stated that he did not have any issues with the proposal, but also noted that
a survey needed to be prepared to accomplish the conveyance.
Ms. Lindsay responded that she wanted to ensure that the variance would be granted before hiring
a surveyor to prepare the survey for review and approval by the Town of Fort Mill.
Planning Commissioner Hynek Lettang stated that he agreed with Ms. Lindsay’s desire to correct
the geometry of her lot and additionally noted that it was a reasonable request in his opinion. Mr.
Lettang stated that he had no issues with proposal as long as Mr. Colberg agreed.
Chairman Traynor asked if the surrounding properties were all zoned R-15.
Senior Planner Moore noted that the surrounding properties were indeed all R-15.
Planning Commissioner Hudgins asked about the zoning of the properties on the other side of
Forrest Street adjacent to the Fort Mill Church of God.
Senior Planner Moore stated that these respective properties are also zoned R-15.
Chairman Traynor reiterated that the Planning Board anticipated there would be no subsequent
rezoning requests resulting from the variance.
Senior Planner Moore stated that there were no plans to his knowledge for this. Moore additionally
noted that such a request would not receive a favorable recommendation.
Ms. Lindsay interjected that she had no desire to make a rezoning request. Ms. Lindsay reiterated
that her only desire was to create a uniform property and yard.
Chairman Traynor then stated that this request seemed to be reasonable and inconsequential in
nature.
Planning Commissioner Hudgins echoed Chairman Traynor’s sentiment.
Chairman Traynor then offered the opportunity for Planning Commissioners to make a motion if
there were no further comments.
Planning Commissioner Lettang made a motion to approve the variance request as submitted
which would result in the continuance of a non-conforming lot and a conforming lot that will
remain conforming provided that there is commercial agreement between the buyer and seller of
the property in question.
Senior Planner Moore thanked Planning Commissioner Lettang for the motion and noted that
Planning Staff had also recommended that a minimum rear yard of 35’ be maintained on the parcel
at 311 Confederate Street.
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Planning Commissioner Lettang agreed to include this within his motion to approve the variance
request.
Chairman Traynor interjected that there needed to be a survey prepared to actuate the conveyance
of property.
Senior Planner Moore stated that this would indeed need to be done.
Planning Commissioner Tom Petty seconded the motion.
Chairman Traynor then asked if there were any other questions or comments. There being none,
Chairman Traynor started the roll call vote. This resulted in the subdivision variance request
passing by a vote of 6-0.
The applicants thanked the Planning Commission members for the consideration of the request.
INFORMATION/DISCUSSION
1. Planning Commission Appointments
Planning Director Karagounis mentioned that Chris Wolfe and Hynek Lettang were reappointed by
the Town Council to serve another term (3 years). Their term will expire on April 24, 2023. We look
forward to continue working with the Commissioners on the Planning Commission.
Planning Director Karagounis reminded the Planning Commission the responsibility and duties for the
Planning Commission. Chairman Traynor also mentioned the policy of recusing yourself from an item
discussion during a Planning Commission if you have a conflict of interest with a particular case.
Planning Director Karagounis mentioned to the Planning Commissioners that she has the recusal form
with her, and they can email her a request if needed since we are conducting the Planning
Commission meeting virtually during the COVID-19 pandemic.
There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 7:00 PM.
Respectfully submitted,
Penelope G. Karagounis, MA
Planning Director
June 25, 2020
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MINUTES
TOWN OF FORT MILL
PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING
June 16, 2020
112 Confederate Street
6:00 PM
Present: James Traynor, Tom Petty, Hynek Lettang, Andy Agrawal, Chris Wolfe, Ben Hudgins,
Planning Director Penelope Karagounis, Planner Alex Moore and Planner Zach
Driggers
Chairman Traynor called the meeting to order at 6:00pm.
INFORMATION/DISCUSSION
1. Recognition of Service: Planning Commissioner Tom Petty
Planning Director Karagounis recognized Planning Commissioner, Tom Petty of 14 years of service.
He has resigned from his position because he will be moving from the Town of Fort Mill. Planning
Commissioners and staff recognized him for his professionalism and expertise he served on the
Planning Commission. Everyone will miss his expertise on the Planning Commission, and we all
wished him well in his future endeavor.
There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 6:11 PM.
Respectfully submitted,
Penelope G. Karagounis, MA
Planning Director
June 25, 2020
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Meeting Information
Meeting Type Planning Commission
Meeting Date July 21st, 2020
Request Summary
Action (Old Bus.) X Action (New Bus.) Info/Discussion
Request Type
Public Hearing Executive Session Other
Case Summary
Annexation Rezoning Text Amendment
Case Type Subdivision Plat
X Appearance Review Other
(Sketch Plan)
Property Information
Applicant Design Resource Group (DRG) for Land Investment Resources
Property Owners Teresa Patterson Weyeneth and Patricia C. Patterson
Property Location W. Hensley Road
Tax Map Number 020-11-01-195
020-11-01-196
020-11-01-197
020-11-01-198
Acreage ± 8.2 acres
Current Zoning R-5
Existing Use Vacant
Title
Request from Design Resource Group (DRG) submitted on behalf of Land Investment Resources
to review and approve a sketch plan for a proposed single-family detached project consisting of ±
8.2 acres located on W. Hensley Road within the Town of Fort Mill.
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Background Information
Site This subdivision is proposed to include 24 single-family lots on ± 8.2 acres
Characteristics on the north side of W. Hensley Road. The property contains approximately
150 linear feet of road frontage on W. Hensley Road and is located ± 548’
from N. Doby’s Bridge Road and ± 1,770’ from the Fort Mill Parkway. The
property abuts the existing Savannah Place residential subdivision to the
east.
ZONING SUMMARY The property is currently zoned R-5. The use, development and
dimensional requirements are as follows:
• Proposed Use: Single-Family, detached residential
• Min. Lot Area: 5,000 square foot minimum lot size
• Min. Lot Width: 50 feet
• Front Setback: 10 feet
• Side Setback: 5 feet
• Side Corner Setback: 10 feet
• Rear Setback: 15 feet
• Max. Height: 35 feet
• Min. Open Space: 20% gross
• Buffer Requirement: 35-foot natural or replanted buffer along
parcels zoned for residential use as required by development
agreement.
• Sidewalk Requirement: Sidewalks are required on both sides of all
internal streets. Additionally, sidewalk will be required along W.
Hensley Road, but must be located out of the right-of-way per
SCDOT.
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P R O JE C T H I S T OR Y It should be noted that the R-5 zoning designation for the properties which
comprise the area for this project means that it is a “legacy district.” No
new legacy districts will be added to the Official Zoning Map, nor shall any
boundary of an existing legacy district be expanded.
Planning Staff began engaging with the applicant in early May of this year
on this proposed project. We worked through a couple of iterations with
the developer and his design professionals to come up with a plan that
would comply with the Town of Fort Mill R-5 zoning standards. Thus, the
original schematic was amended to include sidewalks on both sides of all
internal streets, open space, appropriate cul-de-sac and street design, and
appropriate ADA ramp and mail kiosk placement.
This sketch plan review is the first portion of the Town of Fort Mill process
to grant subdivision approval. The overall Town of Fort Mill subdivision
process is enumerated below:
1. SKETCH PLAN REVIEW
Planning Commission action is required for sketch plan approval.
The sketch plan review phase allows the applicant to become
familiar with the town’s subdivision regulations. The sketch plan
stage will also include a somewhat informal review of a concept
plan. The concept plan will typically indicate the general layout of
lots, street rights-of-way, open space, etc.
2. PRELIMINARY PLAT REVIEW
Planning Commission action is also required for final preliminary
plat approval. The preliminary plat will include more detailed site
features including topography, streams, ponds, and any existing
flood hazard areas. Additionally, more specific information on
individual lots is generally provided, such as the proposed
dimensions. Another important component includes street and
right-of-way layout and dimensions. A cornerstone of the
preliminary plat will also include the type, size, and placement of
public improvements such as water and sewer infrastructure.
3. CIVIL CONSTRUCTION PLAN REVIEW
This involves staff review by the Planning, Utilities, Stormwater,
and Fire Departments. Planning Commission action is not required
for final civil construction plan approval. The civil construction
drawings build upon the preliminary plat with critical components
including detailed engineering plans indicating the placement of
utilities, street cross-sections, erosion control plans, stormwater
control plans, street striping, signage, etc.
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4. FINAL PLAT REVIEW
Planning Commission action is required for final plat approval. The
final plat includes precise drawings prepared by registered
surveyors which fixes the locations and boundaries of lots and
streets. Ultimately, these plats are recorded with the county land
records division. Upon recordation of final plats, individual
residential lots may be sold by the developer to builders or to
individual homebuyers.
Sketch Plan This sketch plan indicates a total of 24 single-family, detached lots on ± 8.2
Details acres for a proposed density of 2.96 dwelling units per acre. The maximum
permitted density in the R-5 zoning district is 3 dwelling units per acre.
Additionally, 20% of the gross acreage is required to be set aside as
dedicated open space. The sketch plan indicates that the minimum amount
of open space has been provided.
A perimeter buffer, 35’ in width, is required for all new developments
within R-5 zoning districts. The zoning ordinance requires that this buffer
be a natural, undisturbed wooded area whenever possible. This buffer shall
be allowed to count toward the minimum open space requirement. When
there is no existing natural, undisturbed wooded area, a planted buffer
shall be required. If a planted area is then implemented, it shall contain a
minimum of 9 evergreen trees and 20 evergreen shrubs for each 100 linear
feet of buffer area.
There is an option to reduce the required 35’ buffer by 25% provided that
a minimum 6’ tall opaque wall ins constructed upon the project boundary.
The applicant intends to use this option on a portion of the project’s
perimeter as indicated on the sketch plan.
As noted within the Town of Fort Mill Zoning Ordinance, impacts on the
existing transportation system are a very important consideration for our
community when a development is proposed. Thus, a Transportation
Impact Analysis (TIA) is a tool that the Town of Fort Mill has adopted to
evaluate such impacts. The minimum threshold for requiring a TIA is 400
total trips or more in a 24-hour period, and/or 100 total trips during either
the AM or PM peak hours.
However, in this instance, the proposed W. Hensley Road project does not
meet the minimum threshold numbers for requiring a TIA. When TIA
thresholds are not reached, a Transportation Technical Memorandum
(TTM) is required. Thus, Kimley-Horn, the Town’s traffic engineering
consultant, was engaged to produce a TTM for this project. The completed
TTM is attached to this report.
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Alternatives
1. Approve the sketch plan as submitted.
2. Approve the sketch plan with modifications.
2. Do not approve the sketch plan.
Staff Recommendation
Staff recommends in favor of APPROVAL of the sketch plan for the
proposed W. Hensley Road project. The next step is for the applicant to
Recommendation
submit the preliminary plat which must also be reviewed by Planning
Commission.
Name & Title Alex J. Moore, AICP – Senior Planner
Department Planning Department
Date of Request July 21st, 2020
Legislative History
Planning Commission N/A
Effective Date Upon approval
Attachments
• Vicinity Map
• Transportation Technical Memorandum (TTM)
• Project Narrative – Submitted by Applicant
• Sketch Plan
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V ICINITY M AP
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TRANSPORTATION TECHNICAL MEMORANDUM
6-26-2020
June 26, 2020
TO : Penelope Karagounis
Town of Fort Mill
FRO M: Amy Massey, PE
Kimley-Horn and Associates, Inc.
SU B J ECT : H E N SL E Y RO A D R E SI DE N T IA L DE V E LO PM E NT
TR I P G E N ER ATI O N AN D S IT E AC C E S S R E V I E W
Kimley-Horn was retained to perform a Trip Generation analysis and site access review based on the
site plan prepared by Design Resource Group (attached) and provided by the Town of Fort Mill. The
resulting projected trips generated by the proposed development’s land use were compared with the
Town of Fort Mill’s TIA Ordinance thresholds, along with the South Carolina Department of
Transportation (SCDOT) standards, to determine whether a Transportation Impact Analysis (TIA) would
be required. This memorandum also reviews the proposed site access along Hensley Road (S-212) in
comparison to SCDOT minimum spacing standards.
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
The proposed development consists of 24 single family homes located along the north side of Hensley
Road between N Dobys Bridge Road and Savannah Place Drive in Fort Mill, South Carolina. The
development would be expected to be completed within the 2022-2023 horizon.
The most recent (2019) average daily traffic (ADT) volume on Hensley Road is 1,050 vehicles per day
according to available SCDOT on-line count data. Hensley Road is a two-lane undivided roadway
classified by SCDOT as a major collector and has a posted speed limit of 35 miles per hour.
SITE ACCESS REVIEW
Based on the site plan, a full-movement driveway is proposed along Hensley Road approximately 600
feet east of N Dobys Bridge Road and 650 feet west of Savannah Place Drive. There is an existing
driveway serving the property. The proposed access appears to align with an existing driveway.
The SCDOT Access and Roadside Management Standards (ARMS) Manual requires a minimum
driveway spacing of 125 feet on roadways with less than 2,000 vehicles per day and a posted speed
limit of 35 mph. As noted above, the proposed full-movement driveway is located more than 125 feet
from the adjacent streets.
There are also individual driveways adjacent to and across from the proposed full-movement driveway
located approximately:
• 110 feet to the east (adjacent to the proposed driveway)
• 50 feet to the west (adjacent to the proposed driveway)
• 125 feet to the east (across from the proposed driveway)
• 90 feet to the west (across from the proposed driveway)
kimley-horn.com 200 South Tryon Street, Suite 200, Charlotte, NC 28203 704 333 5131
14
Page 2
It should be noted that a portion of the adjacent residential driveway west of the proposed site access
appears to be located within the boundaries of the proposed site, as shown in the attached site plan
and the images below. This driveway is referenced on the site plan as a 12-foot access easement.
Given the proximity of the existing driveway to the proposed site access and that a portion of the existing
driveway is located within the proposed site, the eastern portion of the existing loop driveway may need
to be removed while maintaining the western portion. The western portion of the loop driveway is
located approximately 225 feet from the proposed access.
TRIP GENERATION ANALYSIS
The traffic generation potential of the proposed development was determined using the trip generation
data published in Trip Generation (Institute of Transportation Engineers, 10th Edition). Land use code
210 (Single-Family Detached) was used to calculate the site trips. Table 1 summarizes the projected
trip generation for the proposed development.
Table 1 - Trip Generation
AM Peak Hour PM Peak Hour
Land Use Intensity Daily
Total In Out Total In Out
Single-Family Homes 24 DU 280 22 6 16 26 16 10
SCDOT ARMS requires a TIA to be conducted for any site that is expected to generate 100 or more
peak-hour trips, and the Town of Fort Mill TIA Ordinance requires a TIA to be conducted for any site
that is expected to generate 400 daily trips or 100 peak-hour trips.
As shown in Table 1, the proposed development is projected to generate 280 daily trips, 22 AM peak
hour trips, and 26 PM peak hour trips which is below the identified thresholds for both agencies;
therefore, a TIA is not warranted based on trip generation.
Please contact me with questions.
Cc: SCDOT- Allison Love and David Gamble
Attachment: Site plan
kimley-horn.com 200 South Tryon Street, Suite 200, Charlotte, NC 28203 704 333 5131
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June 4, 2020
Penelope Karagounis and Alex Moore
Town of Fort Mill - Planning Department
200 Tom Hall St.
Fort Mill, SC 29715
Re: Hensley Road – Sketch Plan Submittal
(Land Investment Resources)
Penelope/Alex,
The following documents are for the Hensley Road – Sketch Plan submittal made by Land Investment
Resources. This submittal is a follow-up to our pre-submittal meeting with Fort Mill staff on 05/08/20 and our
continued coordination to establish site requirements.
The proposed site is approximately 8.20 Acres with existing R-5 zoning located on the north side of Hensley
Road (West of the Hensley Road and Savannah Place Drive intersection). This sketch plan proposes 24 total
single-family detached lots (2.96 DUA) and will meet the R-5 lot standards of the Fort Mill Zoning Ordinance.
Internal streets are proposed to be private with a public access easement showing a typical width of 50’ which
includes a 6’ planter strip and 5’ sidewalk on each side of all streets. 35’ minimum width perimeter buffers are
applied to all property boundary edges with the option to reduce by 25% (8.75’) when a screen wall is
provided. Cul-de-sacs meeting the minimum Fort Mill fire truck movements have been incorporated to the
two dead end areas that exceed 150’ in length.
The following documents are included with this submittal for review:
Quantity Description
1 Cover Letter Narrative (Transmittal)
5 Sketch Plan – Hard Copies (24”x36”)
1 Check for Fees ($250)
We will send an electronic pdf version of the plan submittal via email. Please contact us if you have any
questions or require additional information for review.
Sincerely,
Nick Bushon, PLA
Principal
cc: Land Investment Resources – Philip Hayes
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LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE
CIVIL ENGINEERING
TRANSPORTATION PLANNING
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