Charleston · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Charleston public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Vape and smoke shop regulations
Bill No. 8092 would tie city zoning rules for vape and smoke shops to new State ABCA regulations.
Holiday Citizen Appreciation Parking
Resolution 26-121 would waive metered parking fees on Saturdays from November 28 through January 2 — a holiday perk for shoppers and diners downtown.
Vape and smoke shop zoning compliance with state ABCA rules
New state rules impose spacing, signage, and product requirements on vape and smoke shops, and changes of use now require state ABCA approval on top of local zoning.
Notice requirements for street and alley closures
Anyone trying to permanently close a public street, alley, or right-of-way will face updated, increased notice requirements, giving residents more of a heads-up.
Traffic control at Bridge Road and Walnut Road
Stop signs at Bridge Road and Walnut Road are being formally codified - drivers shouldn't notice any change since the signs are already in place.
Proposed all-way stop at Venable Ave SE and 44th Street
Neighbors sought an all-way stop at Venable Avenue and 44th Street, but the committee declined to advance the bill because traffic data doesn't support it.
Preservation of historic Garnet school building
A returning resident urged the city to help save the former Garnet High School, a landmark of Black education in segregation-era Charleston, now vacant with utilities shut off.
Inclusive and accessible recreation programming
The department is partnering with The Arc Three Rivers to train staff on serving people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, and exploring sensory-friendly movie nights and inclusive community events.
VMware software subscription renewal
A routine but necessary $65,057 one-year renewal for the software keeping the city's virtual servers running. Same software, new vendor that bid lower.