Aiken City Council Faces Community Dissatisfaction Over Historic Property Debate

News Summary

The Aiken City Council’s recent marathon meeting has sparked controversy over historic property designations, particularly concerning the Hitchcock Stables. While some members advocate for preservation, the council voted 6-1 in favor of a non-contributing designation, raising concerns about potential demolition. The community remains divided, with calls for local business development also surfacing amidst preservation concerns. City officials are exploring new downtown developments that could revitalize the area while balancing the need for historical integrity.

Aiken City Council’s Long Meetings Spark Discontent Over Historic Property Designations

The City of Aiken is currently facing some heated discussions, and let me tell you, the latest City Council meeting on February 10 was a long one! Clocking in at a whopping five hours and 14 minutes, the meeting tested the patience of many, including Mayor Pro Tempore Ed Girardeau, who couldn’t help but express his frustration with the lengthy proceedings and the comments that came from the public. To make matters more intense, Girardeau shared that he was feeling uneasy about an upcoming medical procedure after such a lengthy exchange.

Things took an interesting turn when John Butera came forward and made a bold claim, suggesting that Girardeau had “fired” Faith Hawks from her post on the Design Review Board. But here’s the twist: Hawks’ appointment had actually expired at the beginning of the year. So, Girardeau took the opportunity to nominate Leland Reynolds instead. He clarified that while he genuinely supported Hawks, he had to put forth Reynolds for the role, firmly stating that it was nothing personal.

The Battle for Historic Hitchcock Stables

Hawks had recently taken on the role of chairwoman for the Design Review Board and was closely involved in advocating for the Hitchcock/Bostwick Stables to be designated as a contributing property. This particular designation would protect the stables, which date all the way back to 1902, from being fully demolished and would subject them to necessary design guidelines aimed at preserving the building’s historic integrity. However, city residents are divided on whether the stables should be saved or not.

During the meeting, Councilwoman Andrea Gregory drew attention to various concerns about the implications for property rights mixed within these discussions. The Design Review Board recommended that the stables be designated as contributing, but in a surprising twist, the Planning Commission leaned towards a non-contributing designation. This opened the possibility for demolition, stirring up a flurry of emotions among the community members.

After much deliberation, it was the City Council that decided to vote, resulting in a decision of 6-1 to classify the stables as a non-contributing property. This ruling now allows for the possibility of demolition, leaving supporters of historic preservation feeling frustrated and worried about what this could mean for the character of Aiken.

Voices From the Community

As the city deals with these historic property debates, residents have made it clear that they also have their eyes set on local business development. Many citizens are calling for better local amenities, with a growing desire for a convenient grocery store in the downtown area. Amid the uproar over preservation, the local community is also looking ahead to new opportunities.

Plans for the eastern part of downtown Aiken are in the works, with exciting mixed-use developments expected to cost over $10 million. City officials are in the early stages of discussions with a potential buyer, CH2 Holdings, for this redevelopment project, which could transform the heart of Aiken as we know it.

As it stands, construction is anticipated to take around three years, with completion expected by 2027. Residents are hoping that this could catalyze job creation and new business opportunities, simultaneously catering to the need for a vibrant and functional downtown.

In light of the recent tension during the council meeting, Girardeau publicly extended an apology for any comments that may have hurt feelings, ensuring that none were meant to offend the Aiken residents.

The future of Aiken hangs in the balance as community members express their opinions and concerns, ever eager for change but equally protective of its cherished history. The question remains: can both go hand in hand?

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Additional Resources

• WRDW: Aiken City Council Proposes New Downtown Mixed-Use Project
• Wikipedia: Aiken, South Carolina
• Post and Courier: Aiken City Council’s Ed Girardeau Comments
• Google Search: Aiken City Council
• WJBF: Aiken City Council Gets Updates on Water Treatment Facility Project
• Encyclopedia Britannica: South Carolina
• WFXG: Aiken City Council Decides Fate of Hitchcock Stables
• Google News: Aiken Hitchcock Stables