Commission recommends approval for 157-acre R2 rezoning despite neighbor objections
May 04, 2026 | Richland County, South Carolina
This article was created by AI summarizing key points discussed. AI makes mistakes, so for full details and context, please refer to the video of the full meeting. Please report any errors so we can fix them. Report an error »
The Richland County Planning Commission voted May 4 to recommend County Council approve a rezoning request (case 26-009 MA) to reclassify roughly 157.44 acres at 214 Blewick Road and 1509 Fulmer Road from agricultural/homestead zoning to R2 (residential 2).
Staff described the request as non-compliant with the comprehensive plan's neighborhood low-density designation, but noted the requested R2 would align with R2/R3 transition patterns on adjacent parcels to the north and west. Phil Bradley, representing Haven Communities, told the commission the team withdrew an earlier R3 request and is now seeking R2 to better transition to surrounding development and said entrances would be on Fulmer Road.
A neighbor, Rebecca Nelson, testified that she purchased adjacent property under agricultural/homestead expectations and opposed the R2 request, saying it is not consistent with low-density character and voicing concern about the number of homes that would back up to her lot. She also said she received short notice about the hearing.
After discussion, the commission moved and seconded a recommendation of approval; the roll call vote in the transcript was unanimous in favor. Staff and commissioners reminded the public that the item will be considered by County Council on May 19 at 7 p.m. and that a town-hall meeting regarding related cases will be held May 13 at Killian Park at 6 p.m.
The commission’s recommendation does not finalize zoning; County Council will hold the final public hearing and vote.
Staff described the request as non-compliant with the comprehensive plan's neighborhood low-density designation, but noted the requested R2 would align with R2/R3 transition patterns on adjacent parcels to the north and west. Phil Bradley, representing Haven Communities, told the commission the team withdrew an earlier R3 request and is now seeking R2 to better transition to surrounding development and said entrances would be on Fulmer Road.
A neighbor, Rebecca Nelson, testified that she purchased adjacent property under agricultural/homestead expectations and opposed the R2 request, saying it is not consistent with low-density character and voicing concern about the number of homes that would back up to her lot. She also said she received short notice about the hearing.
After discussion, the commission moved and seconded a recommendation of approval; the roll call vote in the transcript was unanimous in favor. Staff and commissioners reminded the public that the item will be considered by County Council on May 19 at 7 p.m. and that a town-hall meeting regarding related cases will be held May 13 at Killian Park at 6 p.m.
The commission’s recommendation does not finalize zoning; County Council will hold the final public hearing and vote.
Don't Miss a Word: See the Full Meeting!
Go beyond summaries. Unlock every video, transcript, and key insight with a Founder Membership.
✓
Get instant access to full meeting videos
✓
Search and clip any phrase from complete transcripts
✓
Receive AI-powered summaries & custom alerts
✓
Enjoy lifetime, unrestricted access to government data
30-day money-back guarantee
