OPENPUBLICA · PUBLIC MEETING RECORD
Record of Proceedings

Charleston City Council Meeting - November 18, 2025

City Council — Tuesday, November 18, 2025
BodyCharleston, South Carolina
SessionCity Council
DateTuesday, November 18, 2025
StatusFILED
Video Record
0:00 / 35:46

Transcript — Verbatim
0:07

Yes.

0:09

We're good.

0:14

I'd like to call this November 18th.

0:18

Meeting of City Council to order.

0:20

Madam Clerk, would you please call the roll?

0:21

Councilmember Greg.

0:22

Councilmember Sheeley.

0:24

Here.

0:24

Councilmember McBride.

0:26

Councilmember Mitchell.

0:27

Councilmember Brady.

0:29

Councilmember Gregory.

0:30

Councilmember Waring, Councilmember Seekings, Councilmember Tinkler, Councilmember Bowden, Councilmember Appel, Councilmember Parker, Mayor Cogswell.

0:41

Here.

0:41

I'd now like to ask Councilmember McBride to give the invitation and lead everybody in the Pledge of Allegiance.

0:48

Bow your heads as you feel led.

0:50

This is a prayer modified from 1783 from George Washington.

0:55

Almighty God, we make our earnest prayer that thou will keep the United States, South Carolina and the City of Charleston in thy holy protection, that thou will incline the hearts of the citizens to cultivate a spirit of brotherly affection and love for one another and for their fellow citizens of the United States at large.

1:13

And finally, that thou will most graciously be pleased to dispose us all to do justice, to love mercy, and to demean ourselves with that charity, humility, and pacific temper of mind, which are the characteristics of the divine author.

1:29

And without a humble imitation of whose example in these things, we can never hope to be a happy nation.

1:36

Grant our supplication, we beseech thee through Jesus Christ our Lord.

1:41

Amen.

1:47

To the Republic, which is one nation under God's episode of Liberty and for all.

1:59

All right, I'd now like to ask Chief Lisa Collins and Councilman Janie Leach to join me up on the podium.

2:13

Are you?

2:14

Chief Virginia.

2:15

I'm Chief.

2:16

How are you?

2:17

Good to see you.

2:18

Good to see you.

2:19

So we are here tonight to recognize Native American Heritage Month.

2:25

So I'm gonna read the proclamation.

2:26

If Chief would like to say something after, I'm glad to have that, right?

2:30

Whereas the City of Charleston recognizes and honors the enduring contributions, vibrant cultures, and rich traditions of Native American peoples who have shaped the history and character of this region and the nation.

2:43

And whereas November is designated as National Native American Heritage Month, providing an opportunity to reflect on the history, achievements, and continued resilience of Native peoples across the United States.

2:56

And whereas the Charleston area is home to the Wasamosaw.

3:03

Damn.

3:05

That uh tribe of Varner Town Indians, a state-recognized tribe whose ancestry traces back to the Edoan, Edisto, Catawba, and Cherokee peoples, and whose presence and community contributions have enriched the Charleston region for over 300 years.

3:24

Whereas the Wasamassaw, Wasamassaw tribe of Varnertown Indians, historically located in rural Berkeley and Charleston counties, have preserved their identity, culture, and traditions despite over three centuries of displacement, marginalization, and erasure, and remain committed to cultural preservation, education, and civic engagement in the region.

3:51

And whereas the Native American Hitch History Month serves as an important reminder to promote understanding, recognizing tribal sovereignty, support, economic, and educational equity, and celebrate the living traditions of indigenous communities, including those residing in and around Charleston today.

4:12

Now, therefore, our William S.

4:14

Cogswell, mayor of the City of Charleston to hereby proclaim November 2025 as Native America Heritage Month in the city of Charleston and kind of call upon all residents to join in celebrating the important contributions of Native American communities, especially the Osama tribe of Varnertown Indians, and learn more about their history, cultures, and continuing legacy.

4:49

Chief, would you like to say if you want?

5:01

But we would like to thank the mayor and the city council for acknowledging and recognizing Native American Heritage Month um month, which celebrates the contributions of Native Americans to the to the city, to the state, and to the nation as a whole.

5:17

We uh are very happy and honored to be here to share in our rich history and being part of this community.

5:27

So we would love to stay, but we thank you for the proclamation.

5:31

But we have to scoot on over to the College of Charleston as we continue Native American um events that we do for November for Native American Heritage Month.

5:40

But we thank you very much.

5:42

Absolutely, thank you.

5:43

You get a picture, little children for the camera.

5:53

I don't know which word which ones.

6:00

Thank you.

6:00

Thank you.

6:01

I really appreciate it.

6:02

Thank you for the wonderful night.

6:04

Thank you for doing okay.

6:17

We've got uh two other special recognition.

6:21

May I I want to ask the coaches and players from the baseball all-star championship team to join me up here on stage.

6:31

We have the nine and ten James Island All-Star Champs, and the 13 through 50 City of Charleston All-Star Champs as well.

6:43

How are you?

Discussion Breakdown — Share of Meeting
Procedural███████████████████19%
Affordable Housing███████████████████19%
Pending Litigation███████████████15%
Engineering And Infrastructure████████████12%
Youth Programs██████████10%
Community Engagement████████8%
Public Engagement████████8%
Historic Preservation██████6%
Transportation Safety███3%
Summary of Proceedings

Charleston City Council Meeting - November 18, 2025

The Charleston City Council convened on November 18, 2025, beginning with the invocation and the issuance of a proclamation recognizing Native American Heritage Month alongside the Department of Parks and Recreation. The meeting featured the recognition of two baseball championship teams, the approval of several zoning changes and a new tree protection ordinance for capital projects, and the consideration of two settlement agreements. The session concluded with report summaries on public works infrastructure, a commitment to the Martin Park renovation, and an announcement regarding the Council's annual tree planting initiative.

Consent Calendar

  • Proclamation for Native American Heritage Month: The Mayor and Council recognized Native American Heritage Month, specifically honoring the Waccamaw tribe (referred to in transcript as "Osama tribe of Varnertown") of Varnertown Indians for their enduring contributions and cultural preservation. Chief Lisa Collins and Councilman Janie Leach joined the Mayor to present the proclamation.
  • Recognition of Baseball Champions: The Council extended congratulations to the 9-10 James Island All-Star Champs and the 13-50 City of Charleston All-Star Champs, along with their respective volunteer coaches, for their victories during the Father's Day weekend tournament.

Public Comments & Testimony

  • Anthony G. Bryant (Repeated Appearance):
    • Regarding Zoning and Taxation: Expressed strong opposition to the current half-cent sales tax allocation, stating it disproportionately affects residents who have lived in the area for generations without receiving mitigation benefits. He issued a warning that if changes are not made, the issue "will have a minute at the ballot box" in two years.
    • Regarding Legal Action: Stated he is pursuing an appeal of a dismissed lawsuit against Mayor William S. Cogswell regarding a dispute with the City, and claimed that police and EMS personnel are investigating him. He characterized elections as a tool to change realities through "knocking on doors."
    • Regarding Personal Conflict: Reiterated a personal grievance stating, "I know you are going to keep me in line," implying a misunderstanding of the Mayor's relationship to him and asserting he is "working hard to keep the mayor from line."
  • Margaret Scott: Sent a written comment in support of the Calhoun Corridor improvements.
  • Harleston Village Association: Submitted a resolution supporting the Calhoun Corridor improvements.
  • Councilmember L. Scarden: Sent an email regarding infrastructure needs on James Island.

Discussion Items

  • Zoning and Ordinance Amendments (Public Hearings): Staff presented seven public hearings.
    • 715 St. Andrews Blvd: Proposed rezoning from RO to GEO (in line with comprehensive plan for neighborhood edge). Planning Commission recommended 7-0 approval.
    • 24 Calhoun St: Proposed rezoning to mixed-use workforce housing (7-story height district) adjacent to the Aquarium parking deck. Staff noted this supports the 3500 affordable housing unit goal. Planning Commission recommended 7-0 approval.
    • Tree Protection Ordinance: An amendment to expedite tree protection in city capital projects, allowing staff to evaluate sites without variances to preserve trees and require on-site mitigation. Planning Commission recommended approval.
    • 1955 & 1957 Belgrade Ave & 1049 Jenkins Rd: Zoning changes for commercial structures to "Job Center" designation. Planning Commission recommended approval.
    • 412 Arlington: Zoning change for a single-family residence to SR1; Planning Commission recommended approval.
    • Terracotta Drive: Zoning change to SR2 (correcting agenda listing which showed SR1); Planning Commission recommended 7-0 approval.
  • Settlement Agreements:
    • Daniel Island Neighborhood Association: Councilmember Waring expressed extreme disappointment with the settlement involving a $20,000 payment to the association following disparaging comments made against city staff and the Board of Adjustment (BZA). Waring stated, "This just stinks" and felt the association acted in bad faith by trying to eliminate development by right rather than negotiating a compromise on tree protection issues. Despite his opposition to the sentiment, he voted for the agreement to resolve the dispute.
    • 411 Meeting Street: Discussion on a settlement requiring 100 residential units to be built, with options to construct them on the subject property or 82 Mary Street (encumbered by restrictive covenants for workforce housing).
  • Public Works (Committee Report): Councilmember Waring reported on a unique "trip wall" solution for the Magnolia Landing project to modify FEMA flood maps and allow traditional roadway construction in moderate wave action limits. The solution was praised for its creativity.
  • Martin Park Renovation: Councilmember Mitchell inquired about the timeline. City staff confirmed that contracts are in place for architectural design and engineering permitting, and funding is secured via the CapRi Bridge Tip. They committed to starting the process.
  • Infrastructure Updates: Councilman Waring clarified that the corridor between the Magwood and flyover/fourth clover leaf with 526 and Glenn remains flexible to determine the most cost-effective solution.

Key Outcomes

  • Zoning Approvals: Approved a motion to authorize zoning changes for 715 St. Andrews Blvd, 24 Calhoun St, 1955/1957 Belgrade Ave, 1049 Jenkins Rd, 412 Arlington, and Terracotta Drive (corrected to SR2).
  • Ordinance Approval: Approved the ordinance amendment for tree protection requirements for city capital projects.
  • Minority Motion: Approved the amendments to the agreements and trip wall ordinance by a unanimous vote.
  • Settlement Approvals: Approved both settlement agreements (Daniel Island Neighborhood Association and 411 Meeting Street) by majority vote.
  • Appointments: Appointed Danielle Wagner from District 12 to the Recreational Department.
  • Minutes: Approved the Council minutes from November 12, 2025.
  • Next Meeting: Scheduled for December 2, 2025.
  • Workshops/Events: Upcoming joint committee workshop on the housing plan scheduled for Thursday at 3:00 PM; reminder to provide input on the transportation sales tax (sidewalks, green belts, bike pads) prior to the December 2nd meeting.

Meeting Transcript

Yes. We're good. I'd like to call this November 18th. Meeting of City Council to order. Madam Clerk, would you please call the roll? Councilmember Greg. Councilmember Sheeley. Here. Councilmember McBride. Councilmember Mitchell. Councilmember Brady. Councilmember Gregory. Councilmember Waring, Councilmember Seekings, Councilmember Tinkler, Councilmember Bowden, Councilmember Appel, Councilmember Parker, Mayor Cogswell. Here. I'd now like to ask Councilmember McBride to give the invitation and lead everybody in the Pledge of Allegiance. Bow your heads as you feel led. This is a prayer modified from 1783 from George Washington. Almighty God, we make our earnest prayer that thou will keep the United States, South Carolina and the City of Charleston in thy holy protection, that thou will incline the hearts of the citizens to cultivate a spirit of brotherly affection and love for one another and for their fellow citizens of the United States at large. And finally, that thou will most graciously be pleased to dispose us all to do justice, to love mercy, and to demean ourselves with that charity, humility, and pacific temper of mind, which are the characteristics of the divine author. And without a humble imitation of whose example in these things, we can never hope to be a happy nation. Grant our supplication, we beseech thee through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. To the Republic, which is one nation under God's episode of Liberty and for all. All right, I'd now like to ask Chief Lisa Collins and Councilman Janie Leach to join me up on the podium. Are you? Chief Virginia. I'm Chief. How are you? Good to see you. Good to see you. So we are here tonight to recognize Native American Heritage Month. So I'm gonna read the proclamation. If Chief would like to say something after, I'm glad to have that, right? Whereas the City of Charleston recognizes and honors the enduring contributions, vibrant cultures, and rich traditions of Native American peoples who have shaped the history and character of this region and the nation. And whereas November is designated as National Native American Heritage Month, providing an opportunity to reflect on the history, achievements, and continued resilience of Native peoples across the United States. And whereas the Charleston area is home to the Wasamosaw. Damn. That uh tribe of Varner Town Indians, a state-recognized tribe whose ancestry traces back to the Edoan, Edisto, Catawba, and Cherokee peoples, and whose presence and community contributions have enriched the Charleston region for over 300 years. Whereas the Wasamassaw, Wasamassaw tribe of Varnertown Indians, historically located in rural Berkeley and Charleston counties, have preserved their identity, culture, and traditions despite over three centuries of displacement, marginalization, and erasure, and remain committed to cultural preservation, education, and civic engagement in the region. And whereas the Native American Hitch History Month serves as an important reminder to promote understanding, recognizing tribal sovereignty, support, economic, and educational equity, and celebrate the living traditions of indigenous communities, including those residing in and around Charleston today. Now, therefore, our William S. Cogswell, mayor of the City of Charleston to hereby proclaim November 2025 as Native America Heritage Month in the city of Charleston and kind of call upon all residents to join in celebrating the important contributions of Native American communities, especially the Osama tribe of Varnertown Indians, and learn more about their history, cultures, and continuing legacy. Chief, would you like to say if you want? But we would like to thank the mayor and the city council for acknowledging and recognizing Native American Heritage Month um month, which celebrates the contributions of Native Americans to the to the city, to the state, and to the nation as a whole. We uh are very happy and honored to be here to share in our rich history and being part of this community. So we would love to stay, but we thank you for the proclamation. But we have to scoot on over to the College of Charleston as we continue Native American um events that we do for November for Native American Heritage Month. But we thank you very much. Absolutely, thank you. You get a picture, little children for the camera.

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