Fort Mill council gives first readings to 'Our Path Forward' comprehensive plan and downtown master plan after yearlong process

The Fort Mill Town Council advanced two planning ordinances, approving first readings of the Our Path Forward comprehensive plan and the Downtown Master Plan after a year of public outreach and consultant-led work.

Penelope (speaker 8), who presented the plans, described a four-phase process that included issues and opportunities, vision and goals, implementation strategy and plan adoption. She summarized the comp plan's vision: "Fort Mill will be a thriving, connected community defined by its unique character, anchored by its history, and strengthened by its people." Penelope said the plan includes short-term implementation priorities so the town can pursue "low-hanging fruit" in the next five years while preserving long-term goals.

Mark Kerr (speaker 11), chair of the Planning Commission, told council the planning commission examined the documents and supports them. David Buse (speaker 12) of Fort Mill Economic Partners also told council the business community appreciates the outreach and urged passage that evening.

The Downtown Master Plan presentation highlighted four character districts in downtown Fort Mill (Walter Elijah Park area, Williams Mill, Main Street and Tom Hall) and design guidelines to protect historic character while guiding infill and redevelopment.

Penelope directed residents to the town website for the full documents (www.fortmillsc.gov) and said the materials are available on the planning department page. Council members praised staff and the consultants for producing a community-focused plan and approved first readings of both ordinances by voice vote.

Next steps: The ordinances will return for subsequent readings as required by the town's ordinance process; staff emphasized the plans are guides to inform future decisions rather than a mandate to implement every recommendation immediately.