“It’s a small victory”, neighbors say after developer withdraws application for rezoning plan

NORTH AUGUSTA, S.C. (WJBF) – North Augusta city leaders are taking another look at a proposed development that neighbors have been talking about for months .

Those living in the Sudlow Crossing Neighborhood have been outspoken against a rezoning proposal, but got some good news from Monday’s city council meeting.

“The application–as was presented in the study session that was reviewed by the planning commission–was also reviewed by you all for first ordinance reading two weeks ago, now has been officially withdrawn. Nothing to vote on at this time,” said City Administrator Jim Clifford.

Back in March the planning commission denied the proposal to rezone 130 acres surrounding the area around the neighborhood.

But council members split a 4-3 vote two weeks ago to have further discussions about the rezoning.

“We’re asking you to reconsider this, and look at it from the standpoint that we do–as we’ve lived out there for 30 something years,” said one neighbor.

“When they talked about building this development, my wife just turned to me and said we’re moving, if they put that in. That just about tears my heart out. This is where my kids grew up, I don’t want to leave,” said another.

“This is going to be a problem in itself…that…our children don’t deserve,” said a third neighbor.

With the developer, BRD Land and Investments, withdrawing the application, the neighborhood is avoiding close to 500 homes coming to the area.

The rule is they cannot send the same application for a full year, but can send an updated version any time within the period.

Neighbors who didn’t want to make comments on camera say it’s a small victory, but they’re staying on their toes to see what happens next.

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