Charleston · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Charleston public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Charleston Wine + Food 2027 event footprint
The festival returns to the College of Charleston's Cistern Yard and Johnson Hagood Stadium in March 2027, with a lane closure request on St. Philip Street. These large events draw thousands of attendees downtown.
164th Emancipation Proclamation New Year's Day Parade route
The historic New Year's Day parade will close streets along a downtown route from Fishburne Street to Concord Street, with parking meter bags requested near the IAAM.
Downtown holiday event season street closures
Several December events — the MUSC parade, Marion Square light show, Daniel Island tree lighting and a Cleveland Street market — will bring crowds and temporary street closures to parts of the city. Residents and commuters may notice parking and traffic impacts.
Special Events filming and photography guidelines
New rules would require permits for film and photo shoots that block sidewalks, disrupt parks, or disturb neighbors, with no permits in residential areas on Sundays or holidays. Neighborhood events like block parties get faster permitting, while high-impact shoots face longer lead times and stricter requirements.
Powder Magazine street closure impacts
Utility work for the new Four Seasons hotel closed part of the street near the Powder Magazine, cutting foot traffic. The contractor left the site without notice, and the city doesn't know if work is done or paused.
Commercial use and parking relief in West Ashley and Cannonborough
A wedding photography studio wants to operate on a residential-zoned slice of a split-zoned Sam Rittenberg parcel, and a proposed coffee shop on Cannon Street wants to open with zero off-street parking. Both tests touch on how Charleston balances small-business flexibility with neighborhood standards.
Affordable Child Care Availability and Cost
The commission selected affordable child care as its primary 2027 topic. Members highlighted severe waitlists, exorbitant costs comparable to mortgage payments, and a lack of infant care and after-school options as major hurdles for Charleston families.
2027 Commission Topic Selection
Commissioners will discuss and choose the primary focus areas and initiatives that will guide their work and advocacy throughout 2027.
City Paid Family Leave and Employee Benefits Review
Commissioners reviewed the city's current parental leave rules and advocated for expanding paid time off to match or exceed state employee benefits, including longer leave for non-birthing parents and stillbirth coverage.
Shop & Dine on King Street Project Updates
The commission is planning outreach visits to King Street businesses to help educate owners and staff on accessibility best practices for shoppers and diners.
The Shoppes at Fenwick Allee Mixed-Use Project
Developers proposed two new one-story retail buildings on Johns Island, featuring Lowcountry-inspired design and hidden parking, which received preliminary approval from the board.
Joint County Industrial Park expansion
A resolution amends the Charleston-Colleton industrial park agreement so more city property can join the park, supporting the city's economic development toolkit.
Abandoned Building Tax Certification for 1822 Meeting Street Road
Developers at 1822 Meeting Street Road are seeking state income tax credits for renovating abandoned buildings.
Street Vending Regulations and Franchise Agreements
The city is updating its approach to downtown street vendors by reducing available spots and requiring competitive bids and strict franchise agreements. This aims to reduce vendor conflicts, keep sidewalks clear for pedestrians, and address public safety concerns.
West Ashley Circle Retail and Restaurant Shell
Developers presented conceptual plans for a single-story retail and restaurant shell building on West Ashley Circle, aiming to preserve existing trees and complement neighboring structures.
Non-Consensual Towing Fee Standardization
To resolve towing companies refusing service in West Ashley due to low rates, the city established a flat $200 non-consensual tow fee, along with increased storage and mail charges.
Visitor Center Garage Operations & Revenue
The city is partnering with Explore Charleston to run the Mary Street parking garage to improve maintenance, tackle security issues, and squeeze more revenue out of a key downtown visitor hub.
Access to Capital and Venture Funding for Female Entrepreneurs
Speakers highlighted the stark disparities in venture capital funding for women-owned startups and discussed the importance of financial equity and capital investment.
Department of Livability and Tourism Reorganization
City staff updated the commission on recent administrative changes, including the creation of a new Tourism Division Director position to streamline operations and project management.
Hagood Office Tower and Parking Structure Revitalization
The city renewed its parking lease with MUSC for the Hagood-Fishburne Lot, bringing in over $715,000 in the first year. Council members discussed future housing and parking needs for the site, including how it impacts River Dogs parking and future redevelopment.