September 9, 2024 CENA Meeting Minutes
Treasury Update: CENA members are reminded of the $15.00/year contribution for dues.
June Meeting Minutes Approved: Motion to approve given by Chuck Waring and seconded by Tim Muller. All in attendance approved the minutes.
Agenda
Welcome and general announcements
Proposed TIF (Tax Increment Finance District) for Union Pier project
Mayor William Cogswell, Logan McVey, Chief Policy Officer, City of Charleston; Josh Martin, Senior Advisor to the Mayor, City of Charleston
Mayor William Cogswell gave a presentation regarding the proposal of Union Pier being established as a tax increment finance district (TIF). A TIF is a public financing method that is used to redevelop blighted areas that would otherwise remain stagnant. The redevelopment is specifically for public improvements such as infrastructure, community projects, park space, sidewalks, storm water retention, etc. A TIF district would also allow for affordable housing development. Mayor Cogswell feels that establishing a TIF is essential in seeing the Union Pier area being redeveloped and is asking for the neighborhood support and the ability to set it up. TIFs have proven to be successful, as seen with King Street’s revitalization. All projects/spending would still have to go through the full public approval process (3 readings by city council). The port is in the process of selling Union Pier to local private developer, Ben Navarro, who has a history of investing back into the local community. Mayor Cogswell feels that establishing a TIF is essential in seeing the Union Pier area being redeveloped in a way that most benefits the local community and is asking for the neighborhood support in the creation of a tax increment financing district at Union Pier.
O & A:
How long does the TIF last and how much would school receive annually after that time period? Currently, Union Pier generates no tax revenue, but redevelopment through a TIF could bring in $50 million annually in tax revenue, half of which would go to schools. This particular project would be built over the next 30 years.
What would the height restrictions be for buildings at Union Pier during redevelopment? There is no definite development plan at this time; however, the initial idea is that the average height would be 5 stories; however, there may be a few buildings would be 6-7 stories.
Would any money be diverted from school districts, 1st responders, etc. during the redevelopment of Union Pier? No, the private investor(s)/developer provides the funds for the project. Based upon a set development agreement/public infrastructure agreement, the city will reimburse the developer a fixed amount.
What are the steps on the approval process? There will be 3 readings in the approval process. The Charleston city council has had its 1st reading and approved to initiate of establishment of a TIF district for Union Pier. There will be a committee development meeting prior to 2nd reading specifically about the affordable housing element. The city council and the Charleston County School District will begin the 45-day process to hold votes on the establishment of the TIF.
Following the TIF district presentation, a discussion was had with Josh Martin & Logan McVey regarding Cannonborough-Elliotborough neighborhood concerns:
The lack of parking personnel & our neighborhood being the test for a QR code parking system thereby increasing parking revenue for the city and potentially allowing the CE neighborhood to receive a percentage of that revenue; improving trash collection/bulk waste removal to improve walkability & the appearance of the neighborhood. CENA president, Marion Hawkins also suggests participation in the ‘Neighborhood Block Captain Program’ to help with the improving neighborhood engagement, livability, and safety. (https://www.charleston-sc.gov/2801/Resources-for-Neighborhood-Leaders-and-R)
· A motion to support the initiation process of TIF district of Union Pier was suggested; however, Councilman Mitchell suggested that a motion not be presented until after the scheduled 2nd reading. The meeting was adjourned.
Next Meeting, October 7th, 2024
Slate of officers for CENA election Marion Hawkins, president
⁃ Karen Parsons, vice president
⁃ Seantell Dorsey, secretary
⁃ George Seago, treasurer
Nominations can be submitted. President & vice president must be full time residents.
June 3, 2024 CENA Meeting Minutes
Treasury Update: CENA members are reminded of the $15.00/year contribution for dues.
May Meeting Minutes are approved: Motion to approve given by Bob Holt and seconded by Eric. All in attendance approved the minutes.
Agenda
Welcome and general announcements
·The meeting was hosted at a new neighborhood event space, The Rutledge Room. The president/owner of The Rutledge Room and Hamby Catering, Candance Hubbell, presented information regarding the new event space and discussed ‘pop-up’ lunch bites that will be offered on Thursdays and Fridays throughout the summer (https://therutledgeroom.com).
Items & Speakers:
Items & Speakers:
Steve Ramos, Architect, Pioneer Alley
· Owners & long-time residents, Robert & Heather Graves along with architect Steve Ramos (Ramos Architecture) presented their future PUD project at Pioneer Alley. Currently, this area is an open corner lot that is being used as a parking area. The Pioneer Alley project would consist of a mix of STRs, workforce housing, and commercial space. The owners are presenting to obtain feedback from the neighborhood regarding their development plans and plan on returning in September of 2024 to present more site plan details.
·The anchor building of this project (building A) will be a 4-story building located in the corner of Rutledge Avenue and Cannon Street. Design plans were presented to better integrate the new building into the neighborhood (i.e. ‘pushing back’ the 4th-level approx. 12 feet from the façade to decrease its visibility from the street level, the addition of piazzas to soften the mass of the building, etc.). This anchor building will be mixed use with commercial & restaurant space on the ground floor and residential units above (9 STR units & 3 workforce housing units). The additional buildings of the design plan will be a residential: 3-story duplex buildings with most having 3-4 BR units. These duplexes would be located more at the center of the site (limited visibility from the street level).
·Once development plans are finalized, Steve anticipates that he will be requesting neighborhood approval for rezoning the building A area to a 3.5-story district (currently it is a 3-story zone); requesting additional density for the site; and requesting a reduction of parking on the site. Currently, the commercial/restaurant use parking that is required is 27 spaces—the plan is to ask for a parking reduction to 0 spaces. No additional height zoning changes will be requested for the remainder of the site.
· Discussion questions:
What is number of workforce housing units planned and will workforce housing buyouts be allowed?
There will be 5 WFH units and buyout options will be removed. (WFH is defined as apartments/houses rented below market rates or working individuals with moderate incomes meaning income must be less than or equal to 80% of the area median income, AMI --i.e. teachers, police officers, hospitality workers). WFH units are required to remain WFH for a specific amount of time). Councilman Mitchell is present and states that there may be updates to length of time that units must remain as workforce housing.
How many parking spaces will be provided?
25 spaces will be available for residential parking and requesting a parking reduction to zero for commercial/restaurant uses. In the past, our neighborhood has supported variances for restaurant parking to help increase commercial growth/development in hood and growth. This presentation is to present initial ideas/designs and a finalized plan will be presented in the future with more information regarding this PUD & parking details.
Who will be allowed to utilize the residential rooftop terrace seen in the site plans? Two units will have terraces that will be for residents only, no public use.
· A motion to support the general conceptual direction of the proposed PUD is given by Bob Holt. The motion is seconded by Sally Eisenberg. All in attendance support the motion. Meeting is adjourned and CENA meetings will resume in September 2024.
2024 Meeting Schedule (first Monday of each month)
July & August (summer recess), September 9, October 7, November 4, December 2
May 6, 2024 CENA Meeting Minutes
Treasury Update: CENA members are reminded of the $15.00/year contribution for dues.
April Meeting Minutes Approved: Motion to approve given by Bob Holt and seconded by Steve Ramos. All in attendance approved the minutes.
Agenda
Welcome and general announcements
Items & Speakers:
Items & Speakers:
- Regina Diggins, Candidate for SC House Seat 111
· Ms. Diggins was scheduled to speak but had to reschedule for the upcoming June CENA meeting.
-Simons Young, 208 Rutledge Avenue
· Simons Young presented the development plans for 208 Rutledge Avenue. The plan is to (1) reactivate this particular corner with a restaurant space or bodega on the first floor, which was the original use for this space and (2) renovate the second floor to consist of 2 STR apartments. The lot currently has 9 spaces; however, a parking special exception is needed. According to zoning/parking calculations, 14 additional spaces are needed which is what the special exemption is for. Also, to lessen the impact on residential parking, the plan is to lease parking spaces from the offices that are adjacent to the lot for evening parking.
· Questions are asked regarding the size of the restaurant (1400 sq ft); the location of outdoor seating (on lot only; no sidewalk seats); and the number of seats (the seat count will be sent to Marion Hawkins).
· Because these development plans are consistent with what the neighborhood has supported in the past regarding restaurants and parking variances, the motion to support the special exception for parking is given by Bob Holt. The motion is seconded by Steve Ramos. All in attendance are in favor of the motion.
- Colin Colbert & Ashley Jennings, 657 King Street
· Colin is requesting for support for a special exception for accommodations use on the property for the future project at 657 King Street. The current conceptual plans include a hotel/STR (18 sleeping units); a restaurant space; a meeting space; and potential retail space(s). Due to the mixed-height zone, the front of the property would be 4 stories to lessen the impact on King Street and the rear of the property would be 6 stories.
· Parking will be on the ground level (14 parking spaces in total) and vehicular access will be from King Street, not Line Street. The restaurant will be leased through ownership of the property; therefore, additional restaurant parking is not required.
· Concerns were raised regarding the impact of this development on the neighborhood and traffic in residential areas. According to Colin, a previous traffic study stated that there would be no impact on the residential neighborhood; however, it was noted that this traffic study was completed prior to the approval of the Courier Square project.
The suggestion was made to research leasing parking on the adjacent property that is located under the overpass. Concerns were also raised regarding the possibility of needing parking for the retail spaces. The suggestion was also made to consolidate the parking/driveway as much as possible (i.e. 2-lane driveway as opposed to 1 lane). Andrew Gould expresses that the neighborhood should allow the BZA to determine if a special exception for accommodations use is appropriate due to complexity of that request.
· Andrew Gould gives a motion that the neighborhood communicates to the BZA that this project will not have a negative or unreasonable impact on the neighborhood and that there are no particular objections to the special exception. The motion is seconded by George Seagos. All in attendance are in support of this motion.
2024 Meeting Schedule (first Monday of each month)
June 3, July & August (summer recess), September 9, October 7, November 4, December 2
April 1, 2024 CENA Meeting Minutes
March Meeting Minutes Approved: Motion to approve given by Bob Holt and seconded by Vince Graham.
Agenda
Welcome and general announcements
Items & Speakers:
- Savannah Puckett, David Thompson Architect, LLC, 68 Spring Street
The initial development plans for the restoration and renovation of the 68 Spring Street (formerly the Karpeles Manuscript Library Museum) were presented. The plans involve restoring the 2nd floor & mezzanine to be used as an event space; an elevator addition on the west side on the main building; the addition of a detached canopy/patio structure for a restaurant space on the east side of the building; and establishing 4 STR units on the ground level of the main building. The elevator addition will consist of stairs and an elevator in order to bring the building up to code and improve the accessibility of the building.
Feedback/questions include: (1)The availability of parking for STR guests and the guests of the event space (2) The possibility of not having the elevator addition, instead establishing an elevator within the main building & (3) improving the appearance of the elevator addition –adding embellishments to make it appear to be more like the original main building. Andrew Gould makes a motion to support the initial developments plans and support the height, scale, mass, & the general architecture direction of the 2 additions (elevator addition, restaurant space/canopy structure) with the suggestion to restudy the exterior detailing of the elevator addition. Motion is seconded by Colin Colbert. All in attendance support the motion.
-Quinn Burns,125 1/2 Line Street
Quinn Burns and Megan Reifenberg will be taking over the “Sightsee Coffee” building and are requesting a variance for beer & wine license. The plan is to continue the coffee shop business model with increased indoor seating (interior renovation to accommodate 17 seats) & to offer beer & wine for the evening hours (no liquor will be served; light snacks will be available; and the business hours would not extend past 10pm).
-Bob Holt makes a motion to support the variance for the beer & wine license for the future establishment at 125 ½ Line Street. The motion is seconded by Sallie Eisenberg.
2024 Meeting Schedule (first Monday of each month)
June 3, July & August (summer recess) ,September 9, October 7, November 4, December 2
Reminders & Useful info
Have you paid your dues? If not, dues are a voluntary $15/year contribution. Please give dues to George Seago, CENA treasurer, email treasurer@cenacharleston.org, or pay online.
Want to stay connected? Visit the CENA website, www.cenacharleston.org, join the CENA Facebook page, or follow us on Instagram.
Seen something suspicious? Call the police at 843-743-7200 or 911 for emergencies.
Having livability issues? Submit an issue to the City of Charleston Citizens Desk
March 4, 2024 CENA Meeting Minutes
Treasury Update: CENA members are reminded of the $15.00/year contribution for dues
February Minutes Approved: February meeting minutes are approved. Motion to approve is given by Bob Holt and seconded by Steve Ramos. All in attendance are in agreement with the motion.
Agenda
Welcome and general announcements
Items & Speakers:
Jack Darien, 60 Spring Street, concern with zoning variance request
Jack Darien, owner of 58 Spring Street, is requesting support for concerns regarding a variance request at 60 Spring Street. The owner of 60 Spring Street is requesting a size variance in order to satisfy the front and side setback requirements to build a third structure (2 BR/2BR) on his lot. The concerns regarding this potential project include exacerbating the drainage issues that already exist around this lot & neighboring lots; the applicant did not present this project to the neighborhood association for feedback; and there are questions regarding the property lines between 58 & 60 Spring Street.
Motion is made by Bob Holt to support a deferral at 60 Spring St. until a survey is completed/the lot line issues are resolved and to allow the owner of 60 Spring Street to present the project at an upcoming neighborhood meeting. A letter will be provided to the BZA in support of the deferral until the property line issues are resolved and to allow the owner an opportunity to present to CENA.
Motion is seconded by Gerry Moran. All in attendance support the motion.
Kenny Craft, 640 King St
Kenny Craft is returning to present updates to the development plans for a multi-story building at 640 King Street. The plans include a commercial space on the ground level and condos/penthouse on the remaining floors. Updates include reducing the number of stories for the building from 8 to 7. Provided CENA feedback includes changing the exterior of the building from shiplap, enlarging the windows, & adding more design features to the front of the building to place more emphasis on the balconies.
Motion to support the updated design plan under the condition of enlarging windows is given by Bob Holt; motion is seconded by Vince Graham. All in attendance are in agreement with the motion.
Steve Ramos, 12 Oliver Court
Steve Ramos is requesting the demolition of a small, dilapidated building at 12 Oliver Court. Initially, the plan was to attempt to renovate the house; however, it was determined that it may be to best to demolish the house and build a new structure. Part of the building is more than 50 years old and additions to the building are much more recent (after 1979). Overall, the construction of the building is very low quality/almost no good historic fabric & others factors suggest that demolishing the house is the best plan (i.e. the house would need to be lifted approx. 4 feet due to it being in a flood zone, reframing each level/adding ceiling height, bringing it up to code; history of an extensive fire damage in the older portion on the home).
Motion to support the demolition request is given by George Seagos and seconded by Bob Holt. All in attendance are in agreement with this motion.
February 5, 2024 CENA Meeting Minutes
Treasury Update: CENA members are reminded of the $15.00/year contribution for dues.
January meeting minutes are approved. Motion to approve Bob Holt and seconded by Sally Eisenberg. All in attendance are in agreement.
Agenda
Welcome and general announcements
Items & Speakers:
Kenny Craft, 640 King Street, Development Plans for 7-story building
**This presentation has been rescheduled for the next CENA meeting scheduled for March 4, 2024.
Ed Sutton, Candidate for SC Senate District 20
Ed Sutton is running for the SC Senate District 20. Charleston is gaining a state Senate seat as a direct result of the increase in the population & redistricting. Top issues facing this district include improving infrastructure; increasing affordable housing; & improving the public education system. One project that he is working in conjunction with CARTA is the ‘Lowcountry Rapid Transit’. This transit system will travel between MUSC & Summerville, SC daily easing traffic issues and providing transportation for residents. This will help to resolve labor/staffing issues that downtown businesses are experiencing.
Other state level issues that he would like to address include: (1) Improving affordable housing/smart growth (2) Education: Teacher recruitment and retention is a priority – Mr. Sutton would like to address this by increasing teacher pay & limiting classroom sizes. He is also hoping to increase the number of trade programs & enrollment due to the higher need for trade jobs.
· The primary election will be held on June 11, 2024. For more information regarding Ed Sutton, visit www.suttonforscsenate.com
Colin Colbert, 1 Rosemont/158 Spring Street; Density Variance Request
· Colin is requesting a density variance for the property at 1 Rosemont/158 Spring Street
· Motion to support density variance by Andrew Gould; second by Rick Harden; No: 10 votes; Yes: 22 votes
January 8, 2024 CENA Meeting Minutes
Agenda
Welcome and general announcementsCENA members are reminded of the $15.00/year contribution for dues.
Items & Speakers:
Andrew Gould, 68 Cannon Street
Andrew is requesting approval for the rebuild of a shed located at 68 Cannon Street. Initially, the plan was to renovate the shed; however, due to extensive termite damage, the shed rehab turned into a full rebuild. BAR had approved the original plan to rehab the shed but had not approved a total rebuild and a stop work order was issued. Andrew is requesting support to complete work at 68 Cannon Street.
Motion to approve this request is given by Bob Holt; seconded by Tim Muller. All in attendance are in agreement.
Marion Hawkins, Open Forum/Discussion of Current Neighborhood Issues
Long term goals and short term goals for the neighborhood include:
Implementing a paid parking system using QR codes for non-residents.
Requesting the addition of one commercial loading zone in front of 73 & 75 Cannon Street due to the increase of commercial businesses and to improve traffic safety during commercial loading/unloading. All in attendance are in agreement with this suggested plan and location.
Improved trash pickup/cleaning
An issue was raised in regards to an increase in the homeless population entering and/or living in dilapidated, vacant houses in the neighborhood. Recently, a fire was started in a vacant house on the 200 block by homeless individuals. Residents should contact the Livability & Tourism Office to report issues at these vacant properties (Phone 843-805-3226). For homeless outreach assistance, residents should contact the Housing & Community Development Office (Phone 843-724-3766).
Kenny Craft, 640 King Street
Kenny Craft presented the construction/design plan for the proposed building located at 640 King Street, behind the renovated historic house. Neighborhood residents in attendance provided feedback/concerns regarding this project including concern regarding the number of stories for the building (8 stories proposed) and the quality of the design of the building. A meeting with the Technical Review Committees (TRC) regarding this proposed project is scheduled for January 31, 2024. Currently, the neighborhood would like an updated presentation regarding this project once final decisions have been made before any support is given.
September 11, 2023 CENA Meeting Minutes
Treasury Update: $715.40 -- The report was given by George Seago. CENA members are reminded of the $15.00/year contribution for dues.
June Meeting Minutes Approved: Motion to approve George Seago and seconded by Vince Graham.
Agenda
Welcome and general announcements
Items & Speakers:
· This meeting was attended by all five candidates for mayor of Charleston. Candidates were each given 15 minutes to present to those in attendance. The candidates were allowed to introduce themselves & state their plan for improving the city (5 minutes was given for candidate introductions and 10 minutes was given for Q & A. The questions were submitted by CENA members at the start of the meeting and via email.
· Candidates: Mika Gadsden, Debra Gammons, Clay Middleton, William Cogswell, & Mayor John Tecklenberg.
June 5, 2023 CENA Meeting Minutes
Treasury Update: Not reported at this time
May Meeting Minutes Approved: Motion to approve Bob Holt and seconded by George Seago.
Agenda
Welcome and general announcements
Items & Speakers:
- Aaron and Madelyn Rowland, Pinot & Provisions, 227 Rutledge Avenue
· Owners, Aaron and Madelyn, introduced their new wine shop and market, Pinot & Provisions. The shop focuses on carrying national & local, high quality products such as wine, mixers, snacks, small gifts, non-alcoholic beers and prepared foods. Currently, the store hours are 11am to 7pm daily. Future plans for the store include wine tastings and catering services.
- Vern’s, 41 Bogard Street
· Currently, Vern’s hours are restricted on Sundays to an 8pm closing time. Owners Daniel and Bethany Heinze are requesting to extend their Sunday operating hours from 8pm to 10pm. Also, the restaurant will no longer be serving Sunday brunch and will be shifting to dinner-only service on Sundays.
· Concerns were addressed on how the hours extension could affect residential on-street parking.
· Motion: Gerry Moran moves to support the extension of Vern’s Sunday operating hours. Motion is seconded by Bob Holt. Yea - All in attendance, No - None
-George Cooke/Loyal Architects, 50 Bogard Street
· George Cooke is requesting neighborhood support regarding a use variance and parking variance for a new concept bookstore/cafe at 50 Bogard Street. The majority of the store will be for the retail of books (843 sq. ft) and there will also be a small café area that offers coffee/beer/wine and light snacks (392 sq. ft). The proposed hours of operation are: Monday-Closed, Tuesday & Wednesday – 11am to 8pm; Thursday-Saturday - 11am to 10pm; and Sunday - 12pm to 5pm.
· Motion: Gerry Moran move to support variances. Motion is seconded by Bob Holt. Yea – All in attendance, No - None
- Marion Hawkins, Parking Benefit District
· Due to the growth of the neighborhood, a solution is needed to improve parking availability but preserve residential street parking.
· Increased restaurant spaces; the closure of King Street to parking Thursday-Saturday nights; and STR guests all contribute to the increased parking in our neighborbood; however, limited parking enforcement is the major issue affecting residential parking (the city is down 60% in parking enforcement staff). A proposed pilot program is presented for implementing QR code parking systems which has grown in popularity in other cities. This can be managed with less parking staff; provide increased revenue for the city; and potentially provide revenue for our neighborhood. Concerns are raised regarding the process of implementing/enforcement using a QR code system; the ease of use for visitors and residents; and the fines issued for parking violations.
· Motion: Motion is presented by Steve Ramos to support the concept of implementing a pilot QR code parking system in the CE neighborhood and to research/develop a more detailed plan and the motion is seconded by Cator.
- Josh Nass, Tyler A. Smyth Architects, 128 Cannon Street
· Josh Nass is requesting support for a variance expanding a 2-unit property to 3 units at 128 Cannon Street.
· After a detailed discussion, the majority of neighborhood will support the property having 2 units, not three. All in favor of supporting a variance for 2 units as is, not 3 units:18; Opposed to variance for 2 units as is: 4
Committee Reports - None Given
Livability, Will Greene
Design & Development, Andrew Gould
Traffic & Parking, Brett Johnson
May 1, 2023 CENA Meeting MInutes
December 2022 Meeting Minutes approved: Approved by Vince Graham and seconded by Bob Holt. Yea – all in attendance, No - None
Agenda and general announcements
Vince Graham, 68 Spring Street
· Vince Graham has a contract on the Karpeles Manuscript Library Museum. Prior to being owned by the Karpeles family, it was used at St. James Methodist Church. The church’s old educational building was developed into 18 apartments and the sanctuary building was subdivided in order to sell to the Karpeles family in 1995. The city approved this development plan under the condition that the main building’s use be limited to a museum, sanctuary, manuscript library, or art gallery. Vince is asking the BZA to modify this use restriction to enable other uses.
·The plan is to preserve the integrity of the 2nd floor grand space of the main building for use as a possible event space and to renovate the ground floor to accommodate 5, 1-bedroom/1bathroom STR (on the Percy Street side); and a restaurant space (on the Coming Street side).
·Neighborhood support is needed for the modification of the existing restricted use restriction to enable the development of the above plan.
·A concern that was raised was regarding the increased traffic along Coming Street. A traffic study is in the works to identify and address any issues. Attendees also showed support of the renovation plans with emphasis on preserving the 2nd floor grand space.
·Motion: Bob Holt moves to support the modification of the building use restriction under the condition that the integrity 2nd floor space is preserved. George Seago seconds support of this motion. Yea - All in attendance; No - none
Colin Colbert and Skipp Wallace, Island Architects, 158 Spring Street
·This project consists of 12 luxury apartments (1600-2400 sq.ft) geared towards professionals and possible furnished, 30-day rentals – no short term rentals. This project is fully compliant with zoning. Regarding the project at 158 Spring Street, BZA approval is needed to remove non-grand trees (small cluster of 8 trees) and the removal of an old shed.
· Motion: Barclay Murphy moves to support this plan, Bob Holt seconds support of this motion. Yea – all, No - None
Christian Sottille, Courier Square Project
· A presentation is made regarding the planning and PUD process for phase 3 (final) of Courier Square. Affordable retail and affordable housing plans including development of housing in Star Gospel missions is discussed. Support of the planning process and the effort to embrace PUD is expressed by meeting attendees.
· Motion: To support concept and endorse this plan moving forward by Andrew Gould; Will Greene seconded this motion. Yea – All, No: None
Committee Reports - No committee reports were provided at this time.
Next Meeting: June 5, 2023
December 5, 2022 CENA Meeting Minutes
October Meeting Minutes Approved: Motion to approve by Bob Holt. Seconded by Vince Graham. Yea – All in Attendance
Agenda/Speakers
Implementation of the Rental Registry Ordinance (RRO)
Dan Riccio, Director, City of Charleston Department of Livability and Tourism and Becca Hopkins, City of Charleston, Neighborhood Services Manager
· The main purpose of the RRO is to be able to contact long term rental property owners in order to hold absentee landlords accountable regarding issues concerning the neighborhood. The RRO will require all long term rental properties to register with the city and to have a representative within 30 miles of the city of Charleston. The RRO will go into effect on January 1, 2023. The city of Charleston staff that will be handling the RRO include Amy Southerland (deputy director of Livability & Tourism) who will be in charge of implementing RRO program; Becca Hopkins, Neighborhood Services Manager, who helped to develop this program; and Tina Wiedbrauk, full-time Code Enforcement Officer who will be communicating directly with neighborhood residents and college rentals. The application fee is $40/year per rental unit. Also, under the new RRO, a business license is required if someone owns 2 rental or more rental properties (a change from 4 or more). The RRO 6-month pilot program will be held in the Cannonborough Elliotborough neighborhood and is intended to be city wide (James Island, Daniel Island, West Ashley, and the Peninsula). Many cities have these type of registries, particularly college cities such as Columbia, SC. A public meeting will be held on January 10, 2023 at the Gaillard Auditorium to guide property owners through the RRO. If a property owner does not register a property, they will be ticketed/summoned to appear in court and ordered to register the property. The goal isn’t to penalize, the goal is to work together to improve livability in the neighborhood. The Livability department will be collecting data before and after the RRO implementation to compare neighborhood livability violations.
How can we as residents help?
Please contact the Citizens Services Desk to report any information regarding reoccurring issues with properties, https://www.charleston-sc.gov/1884/Citizen-Services-Desk
Cannonborough Elliotborough inclusion in the Historic Distric
Erin Minnigan, Director of Preservation and Planning, Preservation Society of Charleston and Brittany Lavelle Tulla, BVL Historic Preservation Research
·Erin Minnigan provided a handout detailing role of the Preservation Society of Charleston, which focuses on historic preservation and the National Register of Historic Places, the nation’s official list of the nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. https://www.nps.gov/subjects/nationalregister/index.htm
·Eligibility for the National Register: (1) Property is 50 years or older (2) property has to have integrity; and (3) property has to have significance.
·Incentives of being listed as a historic district include state and federal tax credits.
Negatives: None, because C.E. is already under historic ordinance and dealing with the challenges associated with this (i.e. BAR review)
How do we move forward?
Next step: Contact State Historic Preservation Office (SHIPO, Virginia Harness) to initiate historic district process and to begin working with a consultant.
Motion to support the initiation process to be included the historic district by Bob Holt; seconded by Tim Mueller; Yea – All in Attendance
Committee Reports - None at this time
Next Meeting: Monday, January 2, 2023
October 11, 2022 CENA Meeting Minutes
Agenda
The September meeting minutes were approved: Motion to approve by Bob Holt. George Holt seconded to approve minutes; Yea – All in attendance
Speakers
Becca Hopkins, City of Charleston, Neighborhood Services Manager
· The Cannonborough-Elliotborough neighborhood has been engaged with Neighborhood Services and the CofC primarily regarding college rentals in our neighborhood and the livability issues that occur as a result of these rentals. Becca states that the city has developed an updated draft of the Rental Registry Ordinance (the proposed program requiring property owners to register all rental properties with the city).
·The main goal of the ordinance is to make the process of contacting property owners more streamlined in regards to liability violations/issues. Owners of rental properties can be summoned/ fined if they do not register but will not lose the ability to rent their property. A draft of the ordinance will be posted on the city website: https://www.charleston-sc.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_10202022-7793
·The City will conduct a pilot program applicable to the residential rental units in the Cannonborough-Elliotborough neighborhood during its first phase.
·The ordinance does not apply to short term rentals. It is strongly suggested that residents continue to take time-stamped photos/video to document any neighborhood/STR issues and report to Livability via the Citizen’s Service Desk (i.e. parties, trash dumping, etc.). This allows for the documentation of issues and if it is a reoccurring problem, a STR can lose its license/permit.
·Becca provided handouts with the City department contact information; however, she emphasizes that the Citizen Service Desk is the best way to report issues within the neighborhood; https://crm-charlestonsc.govqa.us/WEBAPP/_RS/(S(4j5jkr0hlvp2bnwltn1agv0x))/SUPPORTHOME.ASPX?sSessionID=98230247209XPONJXRWRMFTDOBP[SHOOHCOTSLFU&LP=2
·Motion to support the registration of rental properties was given by Bob Holt, second Will Greene; Yea: All present , No: 0
· Becca Hopkin’s contact information – Email: hopkinsr@charleston-sc-gov ,Office : 843.853.7237 ; Cell Phone: 843.697.2998
Lt. Timothy Dasher, City of Charleston Police Department
·Concerns have been raised by the neighborhood regarding crime issues on upper King Street. Lt. Dasher reports that the main issue on upper King Street involves the presence of underage individuals/loitering. The increased police presence on upper King Street for Thursday – Sunday evenings has led to more arrests for gun possession, underage loitering, underage alcohol possession, and DUI arrests. Additional city departments such as Livability and the Fire Marshal are also involved in assisting with crime reduction (i.e. Non-compliant restaurants/bars are being ticketed for not checking IDs; restaurant/bar trash violations; ensuring maximum capacity compliance for bars/restaurants). Also, the city is in the process of developing a long-term plan to continue crime reduction in the area to ensure the safety of residents.
·The suggestion was made to provide more parking signs for garages and parking lots to lessen the amount of visitors/tourists entering residential areas on St. Phillip Street and to have more police officers present on St. Phillips Street and the surrounding residential areas.
·Potential plans: Underage curfew; no parking on King Street at night; street sweeping at night; permanent one-way King Street traffic Thursday-Sunday nights
·What can we do to help the police? -- Call the non-emergency lines to report any issue and submit complaints via the Citizen Services Desk.
·Lt. Timothy Dasher’s contact information – Email: Dashert@charleston-sc.gov , Phone : 843.720.3913
Steve Ramos Architecture, 82 ½ Cannon Street
·82 ½ Cannon Street: Guest house design presented (2 level guest house, approx. 950 sq. ft). Due to the lot being narrow, a set back variance is needed at the west property line – the request is that the 9 foot setback is reduced to 3ft, 11 inches.
·Motion for BZA Zoning support and BAR conceptual support by Bob Holt, Second: Jerry Moran; Yea: All present, No: Zero
General Announcements
-Radcliffborough is having a forum for school board candidates on 10/27/22 at The Cathedral Church on Coming Street.
-City Council: Voting on re-districting of city council seats tonight
-Mary’s Garden at Porter’s Court is overgrown. Volunteers are needed clean up this area.
-Bad Bunnies Coffee Shop to open in the next 6-8 weeks. Other new restaurants that have opened in the neighborhood: Vern’s, Baguette Magic, Holey City Bagels
Committee Reports
Livability: Neighborhood trash pickup will be scheduled for November.
2 Boroughs Improvements: Next Meeting - October 27, 2022
Design and Development The planning has hired a dedicated officer. Please contact Livability or Andrew Gould with any issues.
September 12, 2022 Meeting Minutes
Treasury Update: Not reported at this time
June Meeting Minutes Approved: Motion to approve Vince Graham. Seconded by Will Greene
General Announcements
At the start of the meeting, an inquiry was made regarding the posting of the CENA meeting minutes. Currently, the minutes are posted on the CENA website. Going forward, the link to the meeting minutes will be posted on the CENA website as well as the CENA Facebook page.
Tara Lowry, Request to remove parking meters on Bee Street
• MUSC originally placed parking meters along Bee Street due to limited parking for patients; however, new parking garages have been built near/on the MUSC campus. Tara is asking for support to eliminate the parking meters between Rutledge Avenue and Ashley Avenue (one side of the street). Marion has emailed the SC DOT – DOT has submitted an official request to remove parking meters
• Motion: Bradley moves to support the elimination of the parking meters and to change to 2-hour residential parking on Bee Street (between Rutledge Avenue and Ashley Avenue).
• Will Greene seconds support of this motion; Yea: All, No: 0
• Per Marion, the mayor states that the parking enforcement staff is down 50% which is why parking enforcement has been limited in our neighborhood. The city is actively recruiting more staff and have raised the wage to $15/hr.
Vince Graham, Two Boroughs Improvement Committee
• An update was given regarding the committee’s purpose/goals and to encourage committee participation. The committee’s scope has been expanded from parklets to overall improvements in the neighborhood (i.e. outdoor/sidewalk dining neighborhood gateways/boundaries, landscaping). The committee’s purpose: To promote a culture of hospitable relationships among those that visit, live, and work in the CE neighborhood and to enhance the neighborhood common areas.
• The committee’s next meeting is October 11, 2022.
Heather Greene, Late Night Overlay Ordinance
• The city council has been developing a new ordinance regarding late night establishments due to issues on upper King over the years. Updated guidelines include late night security (who can be employed as security and number of security personnel present); ID Checks using ID scanners to determine if ID is real; waste management; application renewal for restaurants; and noise ordinance. This ordinance applies to establishments in the city of Charleston and Charleston County. The city is working on supplying ID scanners through a grant to combat fake IDs in bars.
Questions are raised about how the police handles parties and underage drinking/fake IDs. Concerns are raised about police not enforcing rules at college house parties.
The contact for neighborhood issues regarding C of C students/houses is Sam Duncan (College of Charleston, Neighborhood Relations Coordinator, srduncan@cofc.edu, 843.953.5522)
Marion encourages members to contact our city councilmen regarding changes to late night ordinance as well as the mayor.
Marion Hawkins, Rental Registry Ordinance
• This ordinance that is currently being developed is meant to address absentee landlords and issues affecting our neighborhood. It would require rentals to register with the city. Currently it is difficult to locate/contact some landlords to report issues and enforce the city rules. If the ordinance passes, there will be a test run in the eastside and the Cannonborough-Elliotborough neighborhoods.
• CENA has not given an official position on this ordinance and the ordinance is currently being developed to best fit our neighborhood.
Marion Hawkins; Garbage, Trash, and Recycle
• One the issues affecting our neighborhood is getting residents to understand what items are to be placed curbside in regards to trash/garbage/yard waste. The mayor reported that there have been staffing issues which has affected trash/garbage pickup. Cator Sparks has developed a flyer to provide residents with information about trash/garbage/recycling collection rules; reporting livability, bar, and zoning violations; and overall contact information for the CENA leadership. CE residents are encouraged to distribute flyers to neighborhood.
Committee Reports
Livability, Will Greene
• Question was raised regarding the contact for Adopt-A-Block. The contact for this program is Marc Williams.
• Cator Sparks: Can more public trash cans be placed along streets in the neighborhood? Marion: Currently, the focus is getting more residents educated about the overall trash schedules. Also, focus is being placed on scheduling neighborhood trash pickups.
• Concern was expressed over the cleaning of storm drains. There is an Adopt-A-Drain program for residents to assist in the maintenance of drains (www.charleston-sc.gov/1984/Adopt-A-Drain).
Next meeting: Monday, October 3, 2022 at 6pm
June 7, 2022 Meeting Minutes
April 4, 2022 Meeting Minutes
March 7, 2022 Minutes
February 7, 2022 Minutes
January 2022 Minutes
December 2021 Minutes
CENA held a meet and greet instead of a formal meeting outside at Fuel (a restaurant at Cannon and Rutledge).
No minutes were taken.
November 2021 Minutes
October 2021 Minutes
September 2021 Minutes
April 2021 Minutes
March 2021 Minutes
February 2021 Minutes
January 2021 Minutes
December 2020 Minutes
November 2020 Minutes
October 2020 Minutes
September 2020 Minutes
2019.10 Meeting Minutes:
1. Halloween announcement
2. Scott Watson
Dedication of Praise House October 26
Andrew: What are community uses?
A: Booking thru Parks Dept. No permanent displays; no commercial incubators. ‘Open door”
Marion: Thanks for use of Pure Theater.
3. August minutes approved
4.
5. Jeff Roberts Developer and part-time resident
Acquired Rutledge and Spring “ugliest bldg. in Charleston”
BAR in 30 days. The plan: Restore the piazza, and front. Make commercial space.
Design to be seen in 30 days
Usage: from 3 to 2 residential units. Ground floor is commercial. Restaurant and/or store. One big or two small.
Multi-story parking garage. St. Phillips and Morris. Corner not needed for drainage tunnel. May have other use. Talking to Matt Fountain.
Now a surface lot.
YMCA adapted reuse: 7 STRs and commercial front. Each STR 4 bedrooms and 2,000 sq ft. Single owner-not condos.
6. Marion: Approving revised by laws. Need incorporation to get officer insurance and money. We have no EIN Number to accept payment from film companies ($2,000 so far). Lawyer George McNair says no protection without incorporation.
Laura: we need to become 501 C 4.
Mark: can we actually get insurance before 10/27. Laura, probably yes if we approve by laws tonight. We have enough money for insurance.
Bob Holt: Most neighborhood associations are not incorporated and not need to get an EIM. Our old by laws were a model for other associations. Not needed to be incorporated to be a 501C3 or 4.
Is it a good idea to be incorporated? Maybe, but the bylaws are for an HOA, not a neighborhood association. They are not a good fit. Lots of inconsistencies; dues required or voluntary?
We can get insurance quickly without approving these problematic bylaws.
Recommend taking time to do it right by amending our current bylaws.
Jeff Roberts: does horizontal regimes. Can help with the insurance quickly.
Marion: we were advised by a lawyer that we need to be incorporated.
Tim Muller: If not incorporated default to state law. This is not unusual. Agree with Bob and Jeff that insurance is highest priority.
Sally: we all share the same goals but disagree on the pathway. Whatever is fastest and cheapest. We can get a 501C4 without incorporation, and this is sufficient if we can get insurance:
Laura: director’s insurance does not protect all members—just directors. We have to follow all corporate formalities.
Sally: No, we don’t. Our existing bylaws cover everything except an EIN. Sally applied as an experiment and it was quick and easy. Downside of not having an LLC is tax-free donations.
SPEAKER??: Do unincorporated associations protect everyone?
Sally not sure: Need to talk to lawyer and/or insurance agent.
Laura: does not want to serve if not incorporated. Has defended neighborhood associations. Needs full level of corporate protection to protect her and her family. Would not have served as VP if she knew we are not incorporated. Will resign without ‘corporate-level’ protection.
Andrew: Is there a down-side to incorporation?
There was no mechanism to comment before tonight.
Sally: Con of LLC route is that we have to revise our bylaws. Pro of non-profit corporation is that we can amend our existing bylaws. No rush.
Marion and Laura: WE NEED TO BE AN INCORPORATION.
Motion is to approve bylaws as there are.
OR, go back to committee to amend and ‘clean-up’ bylaws.
Bob: get insurance and EIN and file for 501C4 status, quickly.
Bob: Our bylaws suffice as an operating agreement for an LLC.
Vince: Appreciate everyone’s leadership. Great opportunity to get buttoned up legally. Affirmational and aspirational. Need more time and effort.
Council member Gregorie: Why C4 unless we want to get into political issues. We can recommend support or non-support without incurring liability.
Laura: defended a neighborhood association was sued for defamation. Assoc sent comments on the plan and the developer. Took case 9 months and confidential settlement.
Gregorie: need a discussion with the neighborhood. Most neighborhood associations are not incorporated. Larger conversation needed because there are 100 NAs.
Tim: we are in a pressure cooker and need more protection than some residential NAs.
Marion: How do we do the ‘fun stuff’. Spread too thin. Succession problem.
Laura: fix ‘scriveners errors later” Amend with further consideration.
Maura: Is it harder to amend later than get it right initially?
Laura: need appropriate language before we file. Easy to amend.
Bob: members can be certified upon arrival—not 70 days in advance. People who are not certified would not have a voice. These are more than
“ scriveners errors”.
Gregorie: Have you spoken to Susan Herdina? This has larger legal implications. A: We have not.
Bob: City could cover directors liability.
Mark: What method of notice is legal. Laura: all these methods are ‘legal jargon:.
Jeff: has corporate lawyers that will be help fix bylaws:
Motion on floor: approve bylaws and incorporate.
In Favor: 7 voting and 14 proxies. Names provided .
Opposed 18 plus 3 proxies Jerry, George, Erika
Need 2/3 to pass
Marion: Moved to form a committee to study incorporation and bylaws. Scott Watson will serve as liaison: By executive decision
Motion: Get insurance ASAP. No need to vote.
Next Nov 4.
2019.08 Meeting Minutes:
CENA Meeting Notes August 12, 2019
Council member James Mitchell, Parks Director Jason Kronsberg
Forming an LLC
501 3 C Corporation can receive money tax deductible. Movies are made in the boroughs and willing to pay $500/day. But only with a W9 form. George Morrison, lawyer, drafted them. Will bill us.
Sally: need precise geographical delineation
Two signers should not be an elected president and appointed treasurer. Both must be elected.
Laura: Intention was that all directors be elected. OK to appoint committee chairpersons. The directors will be the 4 elected officers. But board of directors can function with 3 if someone leaves.
Term limits.
Only members or people who sign in as residents can vote.
MG: anyone can raise their hand and be counted. Do we know everyone?
Insurance: Should have insurance for Halloween in the Booroughs. Must have director indemnification insurance.
Marion: was told we could not have insurance without incorporation.
CENACharleston.org
Old bylaws are on the web site as are garbage schedules, etc.
Motion: to post the bylaws on our website and vote on them at the next meeting.
Maintaining our membership list and doing Facebook posts is a lot of work. Mark suggested finding an intern at College of Charleston, maybe in Political Science, who would want to get experience in neighborhood associations. Could work through Liz ( the liaison from the College)
Mungo
Rachael Neil: Runs Mungo fabric store. Out of South Africa. This is first venture in U.S. All manufacturing is at mill in South Africa.
Rachael might be able to do some Facebook work in the store in her spare time.
Jason Sakran
Running for District 3. Delineation: roughly Crosstown, King, Mt. Pleasant St., West Edge and over to Avondale. (Current council member from District 3 is James Lewis)
May help us disseminate the bylaws.
Owns Bon Bahn Mi.
Works for Charleston County School District directing Kaleidoscope Program –afterschool program for 400 kids.
Running against James Lewis, Agrees with him most of the time. Jason will be more responsive to constituents.
Event September 10 at Marshall Walker Real Estate on Rutledge.
MF: Can you do all this? Yes. Restaurant work is mostly delegated.
Jason Kronsberg: Director of Parks
Landscape architect.
· Capital investments
· Parks division includes all the rights of way landscaping that don’t have adjacent property owners. (Property owners are expected to clear drains and maintain tree wells in front of their homes.)
· Recreation
125 parks.
Dereef Park and Shiloh Church. Wants to demolish post-Hugo brick church on Smith St. north of Morris and make more park space. Letters from neighborhood association support the demolition. Cost too much to convert into a community center. Not contiguous with remaining Dereef Park. Would like a ‘friends of” from CENA. There is money for demolition and construction of a park.
Playground equipment is a separate request.
Marion: Would like the Praise House to be connected to the neighborhood. Could have meeting there. City owns it and is liable.
Laura: approach Susan Herdina (City Attorney) about $1.00 dollar sale after we have an LLC.
Marion: would be a great pocket park.
Jason: possibly a venue for temporary public art.
Just looking for feedback and comments.
Heather Templeton: Asks Council Member Mitchell: Do you have concern over loss of another historically black church. A; No problem with this. Building has already been sold and the church moved out.
They did a historical report. Link can be posted on CENA Facebook.
Mitchell: please keep me informed.
Motion: CENA requests that City move forward in converting space to park PASSED WITH NO OPPOSITION
Playground equipment for Dereef Park. Expensive; need rubber surface.
Lots of design capability within the department.
Options: BLOQX5 (This is a cluster of big dodecahedrons with climbing lugs); conventional climbing structure with platform; climbing structure that looks like a moon lander.
Laura: put on website and have neighbors vote over a limited period of time. There is no mechanism except CENA to review the design.
Typically designed for 2-5 and 5-12.
Vince: demographics: Laura: 5-12 is probably most representative. Part of a broader question about demographics of neighborhood. Heather Templeton has data.
Chris Maloney (not at this meeting) proposed Adapt a Block. Marion wants to get business owners to chip in, maybe to pay for a staffed municipal improvement district.
Halloween in the Booroughs.
Call for volunteers on Facebook. Mark Gould will provide text and will contact volunteers from past years directly. Mark Gould will do permits.
We will have a volunteer meeting immediately following the next CENA meeting, which will be on Monday September 9.
Prior to 2019:
Meeting minutes prior to 2019 can be found via the neighborhood’s Tumblr page