Council approves first reading to donate six-acre parcel to Beaufort-Jasper Housing Trust for workforce housing

During its Feb. 3 meeting, Jasper County Council voted to approve the first reading of an ordinance donating a six-acre tract on Argent Boulevard to the Beaufort-Jasper Housing Trust. The donation is intended to support workforce rental housing, with a proposed 30-year rent control requirement attached to the property to preserve affordability.

Claude Hicks, representing the Housing Trust, told council that the organization has already done environmental and engineering due diligence and believes the site is suitable for workforce rental housing. Council members asked about the origin of the parcel; counsel and staff said the land was originally gifted to the county for a fire station and later portions were transferred to the city, leaving six acres remaining.

Council and the Housing Trust discussed whether the housing would be for rent or sale; the Trust indicated the site is best suited for workforce rental housing serving households at about 80% of area median income, while low-income housing tax credit projects (targeting 60% AMI and below) would be a different program. Staff and the Trust said any development plan would be brought back to council for review.

The council approved the first reading and requested additional specifics be brought forward as part of subsequent development plans and agreements.