Lancaster County planner proposes standing housing committee to address rapid growth and affordability

Dr. Kirsten Willis, the county's new planner, asked Lancaster County Council to consider creating a standing housing committee linked to the comprehensive plan (supporting action LC 1.4) to develop localized housing data, conduct public engagement, and advise council on zoning, land use and funding opportunities.

Willis said Lancaster County is among the fastest growing regions in South Carolina and cited an SC Housing study that highlights growth pressures in York and Lancaster counties. She said population growth drives household formation and demand across housing types — affordable, attainable and workforce housing — and argued a committee could define local measures of affordability and help retain mid‑income workers (for example, households earning between roughly $35,000 and $75,000 such as teachers, healthcare workers and first responders).

Willis described two organizational options in the packet and presented decision points for January: whether the committee framework is agreeable, preferred committee size and structure (option A or B), and any additional goals to include. She emphasized the committee's advisory role: coordinating recommendations, conducting public engagement, and preparing proposals for council consideration.

Public commenter Yokima Kuraton told council she supported the recently created ad hoc workforce and affordable housing subcommittee and urged that committee membership include "people who have some skin in the game." Council members voiced support for the concept and discussed coordination with the City of Lancaster, the housing authority and potential memoranda of agreement to pull federal funds through existing housing structures.

No formal vote was taken; council is expected to consider Willis's recommended framework and decision points at a future meeting in January.