Berkeley County denies rezoning request for industrial development near Moncks Corner

Berkeley County's Planning and Zoning Commission has denied a controversial rezoning application that could have transformed a parcel of land into a firing range, following a heated discussion during their meeting on February 25, 2025. The motion to deny the application was made by Commissioner Kearns and seconded by Commissioner Hoover, reflecting concerns from residents about the potential impact on their quality of life.

Commissioners expressed strong reservations about the proposed firing range, with one member highlighting the distress of living near such an establishment. The discussion also touched on the implications of land clearing approved by the USDA, which could further reduce the buffer zone for surrounding properties. This raised alarms about the possibility of 80% of Berkeley County being designated for similar uses.

Despite the denial, the commission emphasized that this decision is a recommendation to the county council, which will ultimately make the final ruling. The next opportunity for public input will be at the county council's land use committee meeting scheduled for March 10, where stakeholders can continue to voice their opinions on the matter.

In addition to the firing range discussion, the meeting also included a request for rezoning a 7-acre parcel on Cypress Garden Road from Agricultural Flex 1 District to Light Industrial Ally District, indicating ongoing development considerations in the area. As the community navigates these changes, residents are encouraged to stay engaged and participate in the upcoming council meeting to ensure their voices are heard.