Residents of Florence expressed strong opposition during a recent government meeting regarding a proposed six-unit residential development, citing significant concerns over parking and community impact. The meeting featured vocal objections from local residents, including an 85-year-old resident who described the current parking situation as \"absolutely pathetic\" and highlighted the inadequacy of parking spaces for families with multiple vehicles.

The resident emphasized that the existing three-bedroom condos do not provide sufficient parking for the anticipated number of cars, particularly during peak times on weekends. He urged the board to reconsider the approval of the additional unit, arguing that it would exacerbate an already crowded area. He also noted that several local businesses shared his concerns, expressing disappointment over the initial project approval.

During the discussion, city officials acknowledged the parking challenges, revealing that the proposed development would reduce available parking spaces from ten to seven. This raised further questions about the feasibility of accommodating residents and their vehicles, especially during events that draw larger crowds to the area.

The conversation also touched on broader urban planning goals, with some officials advocating for increased residential density in downtown Florence, similar to models seen in cities like Greenville. However, this vision raised concerns about the balance between accommodating more residents and ensuring adequate parking.

As the meeting concluded, officials indicated that they would continue to explore options for enhancing parking solutions, including potential changes to street configurations and parking regulations. The community remains watchful as discussions about the development progress, with many residents eager for a resolution that addresses their parking woes.