Elliott Emphasizes Ongoing Efforts to Cut Residential Density in Murrells Inlet
After the implementation of Georgetown County’s new land use plan, the future residential density in Murrells Inlet is expected to be slashed by half, according to County Council Member Clint Elliott. During a recent community event, Elliott revealed that the historic zoning laws of Murrells Inlet proved problematic, calling for a down-zoning phase, which may lure potential lawsuits.
Despite assertions from locals and citizen groups that the density initiative would increase residential numbers, Elliott defended the plan. He claimed that the critics’ calculations were skewed, stating, “They were putting houses every place you could. That’s how they’re skewing the numbers.”
Updated Zoning Code Foresees Lower Residential Density
Estimations from the consultant team responsible for the land use plan predict approximately a 10% increase in dwellings if Waccamaw Neck is entirely built out. However, this number is less than the current allowable housing rate under existing zoning legislation.
This year’s county budget allocated $200,000 to revamp the zoning ordinance, which dictates what can be constructed on specific properties. The adopted land use plan and its maps are what the zoning ordinance legally relies on. As part of this, future land use maps will continue to undergo modifications according to requirements.
A Designation Change for Lower Density
Elliott has requested to change the designation for a 76-acre property at the intersection of Bypass 17 and Highway 707, from “commercial mixed use” to “commercial corridor”. The proposed alteration would significantly reduce the anticipated housing units per acre. Furthermore, Elliott aims to negotiate with owners of large, undeveloped tracts around Murrells Inlet about possible rezoning for lower density.
Concerns Over Incorporation and Property Rights
When asked about the effort to form a new town along Waccamaw Neck, Elliott voiced skepticism towards the common misconception among locals believing that their county taxes would be wholly absolved. He emphasized that this feeling arises from frustration, but reminded that the new land use plan allows for a legal reduction of residential density.
Elliott also addressed concerns regarding a possible building moratorium and emphasized that it is unrealistic to ban developmental rights of property owners. Besides, he acknowledged the recurring complaints regarding traffic congestion in the area and assured that he has reached out to the state Department of Transportation to consider implementing a 45mph speed limit to slow down traffic.
Solar Farms and the Local Economy
Bill Hills, a local forester, allowed Elliott to consider the economic implications of the solar farms developing in the county’s western regions. A proposed expansion of a 200-megawatt solar farm to include an additional 1,000 acres has drawn Elliott’s attention. Although the local Planning Commission has recommended approval, Elliott remains skeptical, stating it would be a “hard sell”. He also informed attendees of a proposed 5,000-acre solar farm with a community center and job training hub in the Plantersville area.
As Council Member Clint Elliott continues to work towards reduced density in the Murrells Inlet region, local inhabitants and stakeholders watch with anticipation. As changes get underway, the impact on the community stays at the forefront of these policy considerations.
