Greenville County Updates: Transparency, Development, and Leadership

Councilman Blount’s Newsletter (1-19-25)

My First Official Meeting as Chairman

January 14, 2025, was significant for many reasons, but for me, it was personally meaningful—it was my first official meeting as Chairman of the Greenville County Council. Walking into that room, I couldn’t help but draw parallels to the first time I ever played music in front of a crowd. Just like stepping on stage, there’s a certain adrenaline rush, a mix of excitement and nerves, as you prepare to take on the responsibility of leading something larger than yourself.

What people may not realize is that taking on the chairman role involves more than just banging a gavel and keeping order. Behind the scenes, there’s a steep learning curve. From understanding intricate parliamentary procedures to managing the dynamics of a diverse council, it’s a position that demands constant preparation and focus. The chairman isn’t just running a meeting; they’re facilitating collaboration, ensuring fairness, and representing the council to the public.

Of course, there are setbacks too. Whether it’s trying to keep track of countless procedural rules, managing time, or navigating unexpected curveballs during a meeting, there’s always something new to learn. Just as with music, no amount of practice can fully prepare you for live performance—you just have to get out there and do it.

Learning to Embrace Mistakes

Thankfully, my music career has taught me how to handle mistakes with grace—or at least with a sense of humor. I’ll never forget the time I was performing in front of a larger crowd (5,000+ people) and forgot the lyrics to one of my own songs. Instead of pretending it didn’t happen, I stopped the song, laughed at myself, and started over. The audience didn’t mind—in fact, they seemed to appreciate the honesty. That moment taught me an important lesson: people don’t expect perfection; they appreciate authenticity.

As Chairman, I know I’ll make mistakes. I’ll probably call something out of order when it’s not, forget a procedural step, or mispronounce someone’s name. But what I can promise is this: my intent will always be genuine. If I mess up, I’ll own it. If something needs fixing, I’ll work on it. And just like in music, I’ll learn from every misstep and keep moving forward.

Leading a council meeting is not an easy task, but it’s an honor I take seriously. Just as I worked to connect with my audience as a musician, I now strive to connect with the citizens of Greenville County and my colleagues on the Council. This first meeting was not only an opportunity to lead but also a chance to set the tone for how I hope to approach this role: with honesty, transparency, and a willingness to learn.

I’ll be diving deeper into my experiences so far on the upcoming episode of Simple Civics: Greenville County, a podcast by Greater Good Greenville designed to make local government and civic processes more accessible to everyone. This podcast is about helping residents understand how decisions are made and how they can get involved in shaping our community. I enjoyed sharing my perspective on leadership, transparency, and collaboration, and discussing how we can work together to build a better future for Greenville County. You will find this episode, which comes out Tuesday (1/21) and many other valuable episodes by visiting their site: https://simplecivicsgreenvillecounty.org

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Listening and Acting on Citizen Concerns: Improving Access to County Offices

At the heart of our County Council’s mission is a commitment to listening to the needs of our citizens and taking meaningful action where it matters most. Recently, we’ve heard from many of you about the challenges some residents face when accessing county offices, particularly those with mobility concerns. Your feedback has not only been heard but has inspired immediate change.

While future parking improvements will include spaces closer to the building, we recognized the need to act now. That’s why we’ve removed all County Council parking spots from the main entrance on Level 4, ensuring that the closest spaces are now reserved exclusively for citizens visiting county offices.

This adjustment is a small but significant step toward making our county services more accessible and convenient for everyone!

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Reconsidering the Unified Development Ordinance: A New Era of Accountability for Greenville County

The special called meeting on January 14, 2025, marked a pivotal moment for Greenville County. It was not just a routine procedural gathering—it was a deliberate, urgent, and necessary step to address growing concerns about the Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) and to set a new standard for how this County Council operates.

The UDO, which went into effect during the final days of December 2024, serves as the framework for development and land use in Greenville County. However, as each day passed under its provisions, developers began entering agreements and permits were issued that would further entrench the ordinance, making meaningful revisions more difficult and costly to pursue. Recognizing this urgency, the newly elected County Council acted decisively to reconsider the UDO, bringing it back to third reading and referring it to committee.

This decision ensured that the ordinance could be carefully examined, improved, and adjusted without forcing the county to restart the entire legislative process. It was a move that demonstrated not only the Council’s commitment to transparency and accountability but also its understanding that “business as usual” is not the way forward for Greenville County.

Why Reconsideration Was Necessary

The urgency behind reconsidering the UDO was twofold:

1. Mitigating Legal and Development Risks: Every day the ordinance remained in effect saw additional permits issued and development agreements signed. This increased the likelihood of legal challenges if changes to the ordinance were pursued later. Swift action was needed to prevent these potential pitfalls.

2. Addressing Citizen Concerns: The people of Greenville County have made it clear that they feel growth is not happening in the way they want. They are concerned about protecting single-family zoning, preserving rural land, and ensuring infrastructure can support development. These concerns, voiced by residents across the county, warranted immediate attention.

Reconsideration provided the opportunity to pause, listen, and ensure that the ordinance truly reflects the values and priorities of the people. This decision wasn’t about halting growth or dismissing expert input—it was about making sure growth happens responsibly, sustainably, and transparently.

Balancing Expertise with the Will of the People

Throughout this process, many nonprofits, planners, and experts have voiced their perspectives on the UDO. These groups play a critical role in shaping policies and providing data-driven insights into issues like affordable housing, infrastructure, and land use. Their contributions are invaluable. However, their input does not—and should not—override the will of the people who live in Greenville County.

A troubling but almost identical sentiment emerged from several groups opposing reconsideration: the suggestion that Council should prioritize “expert opinions” over the concerns of citizens. Some even argued that protecting single-family zoning and rural land from higher density is unnecessary or outdated. This perspective ignores the fundamental question at the heart of our work: “Who do we work for?”

The answer is clear: we work for the citizens of Greenville County. While experts provide essential guidance, it is our responsibility as elected officials to ensure the values and voices of our constituents remain at the center of every decision.

Transparency, Accountability, and Trust

This reconsideration is about more than an ordinance—it’s about setting a new standard for governance in Greenville County. The newly elected Council has brought with it a clear mandate from the people: bring transparency and accountability back to county government. The reconsideration of the UDO was the first of many initiatives aimed at achieving this goal.

By reopening the UDO for additional discussion, we have created an opportunity for our Planning Commission, staff, and experts to engage more directly with the public, correct misconceptions, and explain the goals of the ordinance. At the same time, citizens now have a larger platform to express their concerns, ask questions, and shape the future of their county. This process ensures the best of both worlds: expert input paired with the will of the people.

A Break from “Business as Usual”

Reconsidering the UDO also sends a clear message: “business as usual” is no longer acceptable. For too long, decisions in Greenville County have been made without sufficient sunlight or collaboration. This new Council is committed to doing things differently.

We are dedicated to listening to our constituents, engaging all stakeholders, and ensuring every decision is made transparently and with care. By taking swift, decisive action to revisit the UDO, we have shown that we are not afraid to challenge the status quo when it does not align with the wishes of the people.

Moving Forward Together

I want to take this opportunity to thank my colleagues—both newly elected and long-serving—for their willingness to bring the UDO back to the table for additional sunlight and scrutiny. I am honored to work alongside this Council as we take steps toward restoring trust between Greenville County’s government and its citizens.

This decision was about more than revisiting an ordinance—it was about showing the people of Greenville County that their voices matter. It was a promise that we will work for them, with them, and alongside them to create a future that balances responsible growth with preservation of what makes Greenville County special.

As we move forward, let’s continue to ask ourselves, “Who do we work for?” The answer will always be the same: we work for the people of Greenville County. This reconsideration marks the beginning of a new chapter, one where transparency, accountability, and trust are the foundations of our work. Together, we can build a brighter, smarter, and more inclusive future for everyone.

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Understanding County Council’s Role in Development: The Dollar General Edition

One of my top priorities is ensuring transparency and providing clear, accurate information about how our local government works. I’ve received several questions and concerns recently about proposed developments in our community, including the potential Dollar General at the corner of New McElhaney Road and Old White Horse Road in Travelers Rest. These conversations highlight a common misconception: that County Council can simply prevent developments we don’t like or unilaterally change zoning to fit public opposition. I want to address these misunderstandings and explain the limitations of Council’s authority.

What County Council Can Do

• Zoning and Rezoning Decisions: County Council is responsible for approving or denying rezoning requests. This involves reviewing applications, considering recommendations from the Planning Commission, and holding public hearings to gather input from residents. Decisions are based on established guidelines, the county’s comprehensive plan, and the overall long-term vision for the area.

• Regulating Development Standards: Council has the authority to set rules for how developments are built. This includes traffic impact studies, requirements for landscaping and lighting, and other measures aimed at reducing disruptions to nearby neighborhoods.

• Updating the Comprehensive Plan: This document is a roadmap for future growth and development in the county. It outlines where residential, commercial, and industrial areas should be located, along with infrastructure priorities.

• Advocating for Infrastructure Improvements: When development increases traffic or raises safety concerns, County Council can push for solutions like traffic signals, road widening, or other improvements to help manage growth responsibly.

What County Council Cannot Do

• Changing Zoning Retroactively: Once a property is zoned for a specific use, such as C-2 commercial, the owner has the legal right to develop it according to those guidelines. In the case of the Dollar General, the property was zoned commercial in 2008, long before the nearby Stone Park subdivision was developed. Council cannot simply rezone the property to residential or deny permits without cause. Doing so would violate property rights and expose the county to costly lawsuits.

• Denying Lawful Permits: If a developer meets all the zoning and permitting requirements, County Council has no authority to block the project. Our role is to ensure that the rules are followed, not to act on personal preferences or public pressure.

• Reversing Decisions by Previous Councils: Zoning decisions made years ago remain binding. This is why it’s so important for residents to stay informed and involved in the planning process early on, rather than after a project is already underway.

Common Misconceptions About County Council

The biggest misconception I encounter is that County Council has unlimited power to stop development. While it may be tempting to believe that we can deny a project just because it’s unpopular, the reality is far more complex. Property owners and developers have legal rights that must be respected, even if their plans don’t align with community preferences.

Finally, there’s a misconception that residents are always notified about future developments. While developers are required to follow notification procedures, many residents don’t find out about zoning or development plans until construction begins. This can create a sense of frustration and mistrust, which is why I am committed to improving transparency and public awareness.

These misconceptions are part of the reason I am so adamant about keeping the public informed about what’s happening in county government. Decisions about zoning, infrastructure, and development have long-lasting impacts on our community. When residents are informed and engaged, they have the opportunity to voice their concerns early in the process, when meaningful changes can still be made.

I’m also committed to finding ways to improve how we notify residents about zoning and development plans. Whether it’s enhancing the county’s notification systems, hosting more public forums, or making zoning maps and plans more accessible online, my goal is to ensure that residents have the tools they need to stay informed.

In the case of the Dollar General proposal, I am doing everything within my authority to address your concerns. I will be engaging with residents, developers, and county staff to explore ways to minimize the project’s impact on the surrounding neighborhood. I will also be advocating for traffic studies and safety improvements at the intersection of New McElhaney Road and Old White Horse Road, which many of you have expressed concerns about. While I cannot promise outcomes beyond my legal authority, I can promise transparency, accountability, and a commitment to working for the best interests of our District and County!

Stone Park Residents: Understanding Your Community’s Zoning and What It Could Mean for Future Development

After speaking with many concerned citizens in the Stone Park community about the proposed Dollar General, I took a closer look at the zoning in your area. What I discovered may come as a surprise: a massive section of your community is zoned C-2 (Commercial)—the same classification as the parcel where the Dollar General is proposed. This means that portions of your own community is designated for a wide range of commercial uses, which could have significant implications for future development if not carefully monitored.

As mentioned above, these types of developments are permitted by right, meaning that if a project meets the zoning requirements, the county cannot prevent it from moving forward. This creates a pressing need for property owners to understand the zoning map and actively engage in shaping what happens next in your community.

Why This Matters

The presence of C-2 zoning within Stone Park has real implications for your neighborhood’s character, traffic flow, noise levels, and overall quality of life. While commercial development can bring convenience, it also comes with potential challenges, especially when it is not aligned with the community’s vision.

What’s happening with the proposed Dollar General serves as an important example of why it’s crucial to stay informed about zoning and potential developments in your area. By paying attention to what’s allowed under current zoning rules, we can work together to mitigate future issues and ensure your voices are heard early in the process.

Staying Ahead of Future Development

To prevent similar surprises and have more control over what comes to your neighborhood, here’s how we can work together:

1. Zoning Awareness: Residents should be aware of which areas in Stone Park are zoned C-2 and what that means for possible developments. This is the first step in being proactive.

2. Monitoring Proposals: Keep an eye on building permits, rezoning requests, and other indicators of future developments. Engaging early can make a huge difference in shaping the outcomes. I will try to assist with this but please know that I am not given regular updates on permits issued unless specific to County Council involvement.

3. Exploring Rezoning Options: If the community wishes to reduce the likelihood of certain types of commercial developments, it may be worth exploring whether parcels can be rezoned to more restrictive classifications. This requires a collaborative effort and coordination with county staff.

4. Fostering Collaboration: Identifying the types of businesses or developments that align with your community’s vision can help attract projects that enhance rather than disrupt your neighborhood.

Looking Ahead

It’s clear that zoning plays a major role in shaping the future of Stone Park and other neighborhoods in District 19 and all across Greenville County. By staying vigilant and informed, we can work together to guide development in a way that preserves the character of your community while addressing your concerns.

If you have additional questions or would like to discuss options for addressing zoning in Stone Park, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me. Together, we can stay ahead of future developments and make sure your community’s voice is heard loud and clear!

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Continued Efforts in Debris Cleanup from Hurricane Helene

As of the writing of this section of the newsletter, Greenville County’s debris contractor has collected over 707,000 cubic yards of debris—enough to fill approximately 330 football fields with tree debris. Final collection totals are projected to reach around 1 million cubic yards. This monumental effort has been driven by up to 60 double-trailer trucks working daily to ensure that no debris pile on county-maintained roads is left untouched.

It’s important to clarify a point of confusion: while the City of Greenville has recently announced the completion of its debris cleanup efforts, the County’s debris collection is still ongoing and will continue until every pile on county-maintained roads is cleared. The city’s “last call” for debris does not apply to county operations, and we remain committed to ensuring thorough cleanup across all affected areas.

For debris located on state-maintained roads, residents are encouraged to contact the South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) for assistance. They remain responsible for state roads and have been actively working to address debris on those routes.

Tree Stumps and Cleanup Logistics

Tree stumps that are fully detached and placed in the right-of-way are being collected as part of this effort. Smaller stumps are picked up alongside other tree debris, while larger stumps are being saved for the final stages of the process. Specialized equipment will be used to chop and remove these larger stumps, ensuring they are safely handled.

We understand that there may be some roads where collections have not yet occurred. Please rest assured that every county-maintained road will be checked and cleared before this operation is deemed complete. Citizens do not need to report debris to ensure collection, but if you notice additional debris remains on a road where collection has already occurred, or if there are safety concerns related to debris, you can email debris@greenvillecounty.org to notify staff.

A Special Thanks

Much of the information I’ve shared in my newsletters about Hurricane Helene debris cleanup comes from the consistent and detailed updates provided by Hesha Gamble and her team at Greenville County. They have worked tirelessly to track real-time data, coordinate logistics, and oversee the removal of over 707,000 cubic yards of debris. From keeping Council informed to ensuring residents understand the process, their efforts have been instrumental in keeping this operation running smoothly.

To Hesha Gamble and her staff: thank you for your unwavering commitment to serving Greenville County. Your hard work and professionalism have ensured that this massive challenge is being addressed efficiently and effectively, and it has allowed us to share clear and accurate updates with the public.

We appreciate everyone’s patience and understanding as this cleanup continues. Hurricane Helene left behind an unprecedented amount of debris, but together, we’re working to restore Greenville County. This process is a testament to the resilience of our community and the dedication of the teams and individuals working behind the scenes to make it happen.

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Take Action Against Litter: Download the “Litter Ends Here” App

In our collective effort to keep Greenville County beautiful, there’s a powerful tool you can use: the “Litter Ends Here” app. This user-friendly app is part of Greenville County’s initiative to fight litter and engage the community in cleanup efforts.

What Does the App Do?

The app makes it easy for residents to report litter, adopt areas for cleanup, and stay informed about events and volunteer opportunities. Here’s how it works:

1. Report Litter: Use the app to pinpoint areas with litter. The report is sent to the appropriate team for cleanup or can guide volunteers to the area.

2. Adopt a Spot: Sign up to take responsibility for keeping a section of Greenville clean and green.

3. Track Your Impact: See the difference you’re making with tools that track progress and show how much litter has been removed.

4. Connect to Events: Stay updated on community cleanup events and opportunities to volunteer.

How to Download:

The app is available for free on both iOS and Android devices. Simply search for “Litter Ends Here” in your app store, or click the link below that will take you to the County website where you can get it for Apple or Android:

Download the “Litter Ends Here” App

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A Glimpse Into Next Weeks Newsletter

As I wrap up, here’s a glimpse into some of what’s coming in the next newsletter:

• Tuesday’s (1-21-25) Council Meeting Recap: I will provide a full overview of the decisions made, the discussions held, and what they mean for the future of Greenville County.

• County Council Rules: In the upcoming weeks, we will be adopting the new County Council’s rules. While the rules are established and voted on by all of Council, I will provide some of the considerations shared with me so far that I believe will help transform the next two years in terms of accountability, transparency, and citizens having more of a voice during Council meetings.

• County Council Committee Appointments: I will announce committee chair and council appointments.

• The Different Types of County Taxes: We’ll break down the various taxes in Greenville County, what they fund, and how they can and cannot be used. Understanding these distinctions is key to ensuring accountability in how your money is spent.

• Chairman’s Corner: In this opinion piece, we’ll explore how public-private partnerships are the key to solving the workforce housing crisis and promoting smart, responsible development. We’ll discuss why these partnerships are faster, more cost-effective, and offer greater transparency than leaving the issue solely in the hands of government.

Stay tuned for these important updates, and as always, thank you for being an engaged part of our community. Wishing you a blessed and happy week ahead!

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