At its April 21 meeting, the York County Council approved a series of consent agenda items and heard the FY26 recommended budget presentation, which emphasized major investments in infrastructure and the expansion of county departments—particularly Parks and Utilities. The $173.4 million general fund proposal aligns closely with the county’s strategic goals for quality infrastructure and responsive services. Meanwhile, residents dominated the public forum with impassioned calls for a full audit and cease-and-desist order against Silfab Solar, citing health and zoning concerns related to its proximity to Fort Mill schools.
Public Comments
Several citizens addressed the council with recurring concerns, particularly regarding Silfab Solar’s operations near Fort Mill schools:
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Brenda McCluskey and others demanded a public audit of Silfab’s fee-in-lieu-of-tax agreement and raised safety issues about chemical emissions (e.g., silane and anhydrous ammonia).
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Victoria Herpst and others emphasized the incompatibility of industrial projects near schools, urged zoning enforcement, and referenced legislation like House Bill 4293 and Senate Bill 530.
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Scott Cookenower requested denial of a rezoning request (Case #24.2), warning it constituted illegal “spot zoning.”
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Brandon Langford shared a personal story about relocating due to Silfab’s proximity to Flint Hill schools, citing due process violations.
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Multiple citizens echoed demands for a cease and desist on Silfab’s operations and better zoning compliance.
Consent Agenda Highlights
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Uniform Rental Services – Bid #2959
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Vendor Awarded: Unifirst Corporation of Charlotte, NC.
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Cost: $44,887.96 annually for 3 years, with up to two one-year renewals.
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Departments Covered: Facilities, Roads, Water & Sewer, Solid Waste, Procurement, Parks and Recreation.
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Strategic Goal: Supports “High Performing Organization”, indicating a focus on operational efficiency and standardized employee appearance across departments including Parks
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Hazard Mitigation Grant
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Council approved application for SC Hazard Mitigation Program Grant to update the Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan, ensuring regional emergency preparedness.
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Strategic Goal: Public Safety and Resilience
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Sidewalk Project along Sam Smith Road
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Grant application for SCDOT’s TAP program to improve walkability in Fort Mill.
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Strategic Plan Reference: “Quality Infrastructure – Initiative A” (pedestrian and bicyclist accommodations for safety and accessibility)
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Intersection Improvement Projects
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Two major Pennies for Progress 5 projects received approval for design contracts:
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SC 49/Bonum Road/Montgomery Road: $520,913 contract with Kimley-Horn.
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Black Street/Albright Road: $499,073.72 contract with STV.
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Strategic Goal: Supports “Quality Infrastructure” development throughout the county
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Old Business
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Third Reading: Approved amendment to Chapter 155 (Zoning Code) allowing more flexibility for nonconforming lots and structures.
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Second Reading:
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Amended Chapter 154 (Land Development Code) to refine minor subdivision rules.
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Approved an Infrastructure Credit Agreement for “Project Unagi,” a $5 million investment creating 146 jobs.
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New Business: FY26 Budget & Strategic Goals for Parks
During the FY26 Budget Presentation, County Manager Edwards emphasized alignment with the county’s 3-year Strategic Plan, particularly focusing on infrastructure and employee investment. Of the 34.6 full-time equivalent (FTE)positions proposed in the budget:
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14 FTEs are designated for either Parks or Utilities, representing a significant commitment to these newly prioritized departments.
Strategic Goals for Parks:
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Department Formation & Growth:
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Parks is considered a “new initiative and focus area,” signaling long-term investment and resource allocation.
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These hires aim to operationalize goals from the strategic plan into tangible services and enhancements.
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Connection to Quality of Life & Infrastructure:
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Parks investments are linked to improving community well-being, offering public recreational access, and enhancing county appeal.
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Capital projects and staffing reflect this alignment with “Quality Infrastructure” and “Effective and Responsive Services” goals.
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Departmental Strategic Plans:
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Each department, including Parks, developed its own plan rooted in the countywide strategic vision.
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These plans shaped budget requests and were prioritized based on affordability and alignment with long-term goals
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Council Member Comments
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Council members Tom Audette and Debi Cloninger strongly supported a cease and desist for Silfab and an audit of the tax agreement, citing constituent distress and school safety concerns.
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A request was made by Council Member Huckabee to refer the issue of building height restrictions (especially for hotels, industrial, and commercial zones) to the Planning and Zoning Committee.
Recognition
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Aaron Seagler, County Auditor, was recognized and thanked for his service as he transitions to a new governmental position.
Executive Session & Post-Session Actions
Council went into executive session and upon returning:
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Approved a settlement for a condemnation action related to Project US21 SC-51.
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Appointed Amy Boheler as Interim Auditor effective May 1, 2025.
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Approved a $250,000 economic development grant for Project Montalban.
