The Town of Fort Mill is preparing for a pivotal series of public decisions on Monday evening as Town Council members convene for a packed agenda featuring a complete rewrite of the town’s land-use laws, proposed compensation adjustments for elected officials, and multi-million-dollar budgetary transitions.
The meeting is scheduled for Monday, September 14, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. in Council Chambers at Town Hall (205 N. White Street).
Among the night’s headline items is a sweeping proposal to repeal and replace Fort Mill’s existing zoning code in its entirety — a move designed to modernize municipal standards and impose immediate legal holds on conflicting development permits.
A 253-Page Overhaul: The Pending Ordinance Doctrine
At the center of Monday’s proceedings is Ordinance 2026, presented by Chris Pettit, which proposes to strike down the town’s current zoning rules and substitute a comprehensive 253-page regulatory framework.
Beyond updating definitions for modern uses — ranging from accessory dwelling units (ADUs) and artisan production studios to detailed classifications for data centers (retail, wholesale, and hyperscale) — the ordinance explicitly invokes South Carolina’s Pending Ordinance Doctrine.
Originating from the state Supreme Court precedent Sherman v. Reavis, invoking this legal doctrine immediately halts the issuance of any building or land-use permits that would conflict with the proposed zoning updates while the ordinance is under council consideration. According to town documentation, the overhaul aims to update definitions, streamline administrative procedures, align local rules with state and federal statutes, and provide greater clarity for residents, property owners, and developers.
The zoning reform will undergo a formal public hearing before council members vote on its first reading during the new business portion of the agenda.
Budgetary Transitions and Public Hearings
In addition to land-use reforms, council members will conduct a public hearing on the proposed Fiscal Year 2026–2027 Budget and Millage Rate, presented by Town Manager Cary Vargo and Finance Director Eric Davis.
The financial portion of the meeting will address two fiscal horizons:
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Fiscal Year 2026–2027 Budget: First reading consideration for the upcoming fiscal year’s operational framework and property tax millage rate.
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Fiscal Year 2025–2026 Budget Amendment: Consideration of Budget Amendment 26-10 (presented by Eric Davis) to adjust the current closing fiscal cycle.
Council Compensation & Town Vision
Under old business, the council will revisit the first reading of an ordinance amending the Town Code regarding compensation for the Mayor and Town Council members.
Further on the agenda, Council Director of Communications Gordon Burnette will present Resolution 2026-37, which seeks formal adoption of the town’s refreshed Mission, Vision, and Values statement to guide future policy decisions.
Following public business and council comments, the body is scheduled to enter an Executive Session to discuss proposed contractual matters related to an ongoing utility project.
Meeting Information & Public Participation
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Date & Time: Monday, September 14, 2026, at 6:00 p.m.
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Location: Council Chambers, Town Hall, 205 N. White Street, Fort Mill, SC 29715
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Public Comment Sign-Up: Pursuant to Section 2-46 of the Fort Mill Code of Ordinances, citizens wishing to address the council on municipal matters (excluding personnel issues) must sign in outside Council Chambers prior to the 6:00 p.m. call to order. Speakers are allotted three minutes each.
