x
Breaking News
More () »

Lexington gives input on ordinance that could limit residential development

Lexington County Council representative Darrell Hudson wants to change the number of homes built on one acre of land. Currently it's 12 houses. He wants it to be four.

Street Squad went to a public hearing where people were able to give their input on a new ordinance that could limit the number of homes built within parts of the county.

Lexington County Council representative Darrell Hudson wants to change the number of homes built on one acre of land. Currently it's 12 houses. He wants it to be four.

Folks got the chance to say whether they agree or disagree with the proposal.

One resident says not letting more people move into the area would hurt the county.

“Stunning growth and availability of these houses for the people that want to live in this area, is the wrong thing,” said one resident. “We have Chapin, who's literally shutting down schools and people have stopped moving there, and wanting to move in our area. We're literally going to put up a 'We don't want you sign.'”

One woman said having too many people in the county has put more pressure on the tax payers who’s lived in Lexington for a long time.

"We are continuing to increase our taxes, strain our infrastructure, strain our hospitals, strain our schools, strain everything to accommodate everyone moving here,” explained the resident.

If the ordinance is passed, it would affect County Council Districts 2, 3, 4, 6, and 8. Many people say they'd like to see it go county wide instead of just certain areas. Some believe this will be smart growth for Lexington.

“This proposal will allow reasonable development until our infrastructure can catch up,” said one Gilbert man.

Some people say it would either increase or decrease their property value.
A local farmer says he has already dealt with years of bad weather, and losing property value wouldn't help.

“I'm not saying we're struggling because we have land but hey, if this land's not worth anything, what good is it,” said one man.

Although the public hearing was Tuesday night, nothing has been approved.

Officials say the ordinance will have to go through additional readings before Lexington County Council moves forward.

If you have any other stories you would like Street Squad Lexington to cover, reach out to Nic on Twitter @NicJonesReports or on our Street Squad Lexington Facebook page.

Before You Leave, Check This Out