Here’s a recap of Greenville County Council’s Sept. 15 meeting.
Approved: Open space guidelines for residential developments
Council approved third and final reading of a pair of measures updating open space requirements for residential developments.
The first measure amends the county’s zoning ordinance regulating open space residential developments. The changes revise standards for townhomes, duplexes and single-family attached dwellings. The changes also introduce minimum lot widths, reduced side setbacks and maximum attached unit counts, among others.
The second measure amends the county’s Land Development Regulations regarding design and construction of open space residential developments. The changes relate to guidelines for preliminary plans for subdivisions using the open space residential development option and to align with the changes made by the zoning ordinance amendment.
These changes would only impact zoned properties in the unincorporated areas of the county.
Approved: Updates to non-consent towing ordinance
Council approved final reading to an ordinance updating the county’s non-consent towing ordinance to adjust rates to reflect increased operational costs for towing companies. The maximum rates were set in 2009 when council adopted the non-consent towing ordinance.
The new maximum rates for towing vehicles from a commercial parking area are broken down by vehicle weight as follows:
- Less than 10,000 pounds — $275 (up from $75)
- 10,000 pounds but less than 15,000 pounds — $300 (up from $100)
- 15,000 pounds but less than 30,000 pounds — $350 (up from $200)
- 30,000 pounds or more — $400 ( up from $300)
The changes are meant to recognize higher operational costs for towing companies in terms of fuel, labor, insurance and equipment.
During discussion, council member Kelly Long (District 18) asked about adjusting or waiving storage fees charged over the weekend when most towing companies are closed. The council’s consensus was the concern is valid but should be addressed in a separate measure brought before council at a later date.
