The Pickens County Board of Commissioners held a work session on January 6, 2025, where they discussed several key zoning applications aimed at residential development.

The first application, RZ-190853, presented by Southern Property Investments, sought to rezone a 27.2-acre parcel along Stone Crest Road from agricultural to small agricultural. The applicant plans to divide the land into five tracks for single-family housing. The proposal includes a requirement to widen a portion of Stallcrest Steam Mill Road by 15 feet to comply with county codes, which received support from neighboring property owners. The Planning Commission unanimously recommended approval of the rezoning, emphasizing that the development aligns with the county's comprehensive plan for rural residential areas.

Another significant application, RZ-190854, was submitted by Brandon Roman and Brett Nolan for a portion of a 34.72-acre parcel on Highway 1136 Connector. This request aims to rezone 15.12 acres from agricultural to rural residential to facilitate an eight-lot subdivision. The remaining 18.02 acres will be preserved as open space and farmland, consistent with the county's goals for environmental protection. The Planning Commission also recommended approval for this application, which will require further staff review for subdivision development.

Both proposals reflect ongoing efforts to manage growth in Pickens County while balancing residential needs with agricultural preservation. The board's discussions highlighted the importance of community support and compliance with existing regulations in the development process. Further steps will involve detailed planning and adherence to county standards as these projects move forward.