Charleston · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Charleston public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Wholesale window replacements in historic districts
Three applications ask to replace all windows — including one appealing a prior staff denial. How the board treats original windows in historic districts is a recurring tension between preservation and modern comfort.
Point Hope North Residential Phase 2 growth in Cainhoy
A 103-lot single-family phase on 94.4 acres in Cainhoy is moving through technical review. Roads and drainage plans for the development are on the same agenda.
Large accommodations project modification at 131 Columbus St.
The owners of a previously approved accommodations use on Columbus Street want to shrink the building — cutting required contiguous meeting space from 15,000 to 12,000 square feet. Neighbors who weighed in on the original approval may want to weigh in again.
Live Oak Square expansion on Johns Island
The Live Oak Square development wants to add three 3-story buildings with 89 more units off Reva Ridge Drive. The board's preliminary review is an early design checkpoint before the project moves forward.
Daniel Island Golf Club Teaching and Laundry Facilities
Daniel Island Golf Club is seeking site plan approval for new golf teaching and laundry facilities along with parking and utility upgrades. The project requires Board of Architectural Review oversight.
Pearl Baker Property Subordinations and Mortgage Modifications
The commission will review loan subordinations and mortgage modifications for several properties linked to Pearl Baker, affecting affordable housing management and property financing. These changes help homeowners or housing programs adjust their loan terms.
Cainhoy Del Webb Phase 2 RV and Boat Storage Facility
A proposed three-story storage building on Clements Ferry Road received final design approval after the developer simplified plant palettes and building elements based on board feedback.
Hope Center transition at 529 Meeting Street
The city renewed $215,210 in funding for Star Gospel Mission to keep helping homeless residents dealing with mental illness.
Residential Annexations and Density in West Ashley
Five small West Ashley parcels join the City, affecting Districts 2, 7, and 11.
Disability Housing and Community Models
Commissioners discussed housing models for people with disabilities, debating whether specialized communities like SOS Cares offer helpful support or isolate residents from mainstream life.
West Ashley Commercial Development (McDonald's)
Review of a site plan for a new McDonald's restaurant on West Ashley Circle. The project brings new commercial infrastructure to the West Ashley PUD zone.
James Island Commercial Redevelopment and Demolitions
Two older ranch houses on Harbor View Road are set to be demolished after owners cited major maintenance issues, making way for new neighborhood possibilities.
Multifamily Residential Development at 1820 Wallace School Road
A developer is proposing a new six-unit multifamily residential building on a small parcel in West Ashley.
MUSC Decant and Exterior Improvements at Citadel Mall
MUSC is proposing exterior building improvements, sitework, and landscaping at 2068 Sam Rittenberg Boulevard.
Ripley Cove Townhomes Early Site Package
An early site package for a future townhome development on Ripley Point Drive is under review.
Washington Park Area Character Appraisal
Graduate students presented a detailed history and character appraisal of Washington Park, highlighting its African American heritage and current development pressures.
Cottage Development at Daniel Island Golf Club
Daniel Island Golf Club received approval for four new detached cottages, an amenity building, and associated parking.
Hampton Park Naming and Confederate History
Dr. Hector Qirko presented concerns regarding Hampton Park's namesake, Wade Hampton III, citing his role as a Confederate general, slaveholder, and promoter of the Lost Cause. The commission discussed historical context, state restrictions on renaming war-related sites, and the possibility of adding an explanatory historical plaque.
2274 Clements Ferry Rd. Storage Building
A proposal for a new three-story storage building on Clements Ferry Road received preliminary approval, with requirements to refine facade details and landscaping.
Ashley Landing Housing Unit Reduction
Developers of Ashley Landing on Sumar Street are reducing their multi-family housing plans from 325 units to 285 units, which also lowers the number of affordable housing units from 32 to 29. City staff noted this adjustment follows refined schematic drawings.
Youth learning center and golf course at Henry Tecklenburg Drive
A youth learning center with a 9-hole golf course cleared preliminary approval, but a nearby HOA representative warned it sits on an accident-prone stretch of road.