Charleston · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Charleston public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
West Ashley Greenway Safety Project
A $100,000 state grant would fund safety improvements along the West Ashley Greenway, a popular walking and biking trail.
Old Exchange elevator modernization grant
The city could land $250,000 in state money to modernize the elevator in the historic Old Exchange Building, a downtown landmark. It improves accessibility at no cost to local taxpayers.
Dock Street Theatre lease renewal with Charleston Stage
Charleston Stage's lease on the city-owned Dock Street Theatre is up for another three-year term with two one-year renewal options. The deal keeps the resident theater company operating in a landmark city building downtown.
Longborough dock public access
Multiple speakers and five written comments urged the city to finalize an MOU with the Longborough Owners Association to restore historic public water access on the West Side — with one speaker suggesting condemnation if negotiations fail.
Angel Oak improvement project fundraising
The Lowcountry Land Trust's Angel Oak plan — new parking, raised walkways, and a pavilion to protect the tree's roots — needs about $5,000–$6,000 more before groundbreaking. New signs at the park include QR codes for donations.
Alberta Sottile Long Lake Pedestrian Trail and Lake Outfall Improvements
The City of Charleston is proposing pedestrian trail additions and lake outfall improvements on the Peninsula. The project seeks to improve public recreation access and stormwater management infrastructure.
Lowcountry Lowline progress
A $2 million change order keeps the Lowline on track for remobilization October 19, funded by the Cooper River Bridge TIF. Council members pressed for more public updates, especially for District 4 residents.
Recreational Program Fee Reductions for Individuals with Disabilities
The City is considering whether to lower costs for recreational programs for people with disabilities. Commissioners debated whether a disability-specific discount would create a stigma or if income-based assistance would be a better approach.
Special Facilities Operations and Historic Site Management
City historic sites experienced a drop in visitors during December and January due to cold winter weather, but gift shop revenue remained strong, aided by creative sales like Angel Oak tree trimmings.
Commission Outreach and Marketing
The commission is looking for better ways to market its events and increase public participation after reviewing recent panel discussions.
Trash Overflow Management at John's Island City Park
City officials discussed recurring trash overflow issues at John's Island City Park during soccer tournaments and debated whether to add more pickups or encourage behavioral changes.
Trophy Lakes Restrictive Covenants Amendment
Council finalized changes to Johns Island's Trophy Lakes restrictive covenants, allowing expanded recreational activities like paddle ball and pickleball without disturbing nearby residents.
2026 ADA Celebration Planning
Preparations are underway for the annual ADA Celebration on July 23 at Park Circle, shifting to a panel discussion format.
Johns Island City Park Trash Capacity
Overflowing trash cans at Johns Island City Park have become a headache due to high park usage and school district athletic events. The city is looking at bumping up pickups and updating agreements with the school district to share clean-up duties.