WINNSBORO, S.C. — Winnsboro has enacted a six-month moratorium on housing and commercial developments within city limits, pausing any new projects.
Town officials announced the decision following public concern about a proposed development along Gumsprings Road and Highway 34, where Haven Homes planned to build more than 1,000 homes and some commercial space.
“There have been a number of calls from the public to make sure that we approach this from a logical, thoughtful approach,” said Winnsboro Town Manager Chris Clauson.
Officials said the moratorium will allow Winnsboro to reassess land development regulations, the zoning ordinance, and the comprehensive plan.
“It’s for the entire town, so any property within town limits," Clauson said. "It’s only a moratorium on major subdivisions and multi-family developments."
Some in town said they understand the decision but want to see growth.
"When you talk about development coming here, that's, 'Do we have the infrastructure to make it easy for everyone—traffic, schools, roads, all that type of thing?'" said Mary Anne Tolbert, owner of A Latte Luv. "But, yeah, we need development; we need people in our town to grow."
Clauson said he believes this is a proper step to manage growth.
"I think it’s a wise thing at this time, not punitive in any way," Clauson said. "It's just solely for the benefit of the town and its residents and those that are not here yet. We just wanted to be calculated with how we process and make sure the development is something that the town is proud of.”
A second reading and public hearing on the moratorium are scheduled for Tuesday, Oct. 1, at 6:15 p.m. at the Winnsboro Historic Clock Tower.
