Aiken City Planning Exciting Developments: New Properties on the Horizon!
As the sun shines brightly over Aiken today with a pleasant high of 68°F, the city’s council members are gearing up for an important meeting that could bring fresh opportunities for all residents. Clear skies set the perfect backdrop for what promises to be a lively evening filled with discussions about the future of local properties.
Jackson Petroleum Property Sale on the Agenda
At 7 p.m. on November 25, the Aiken City Council will convene to discuss the second reading of an ordinance that aims to authorize the sale of the much-talked-about Jackson Petroleum property to a company called MarketSide Villages LLC for $315,000. This property, located right at the bustling intersection of Richland Avenue and Williamsburg Street, is poised to become a lively addition to Aiken’s vibrant community, sitting just east of the popular farmers market.
MarketSide Villages LLC, led by Christian Hersacher and Hillary Head, has big dreams for this site. In their proposal, they express a vision of transforming the area into a “vibrant, community-centric village,” blending perfectly with the local farmers market atmosphere. With an estimated investment of around $11 million, they are ready to create engaging spaces for both residents and visitors alike. How exciting does that sound?
Next Steps in the City Council’s Agenda
The council’s agenda doesn’t end there! They’re also set to consider a resolution that would greenlight the purchase of a neighbouring 6.5-acre property near the city-owned Aiken Regional Airport for $328,075. This is quite the bustling time for city developments!
If this budget adjustment is approved, funds from the sale of the Jackson Petroleum property will return to the Community Development Block Grant fund, which underscores the city’s commitment to investing in projects that enhance local quality of life.
History of the Jackson Petroleum Property
Interestingly, this property has a bit of a story. The Aiken Municipal Development Commission first purchased it back in March 2021 for $175,000, using block grant funds to make the acquisition. However, in a twist of fate, the council dissolved the AMDC, and now the city stands to gain some financial returns from this new sale.
Buying Back the Aiken Regional Airport Property
In an intriguing plot twist, the city might also be on the verge of buying back a property located near the Aiken Regional Airport, which had been owned by Security Federal Bank since 2004. The property has remained undeveloped as the bank never constructed a branch there. Now, the city has the opportunity to snag it back, taking advantage of a favorable right of first refusal in the original agreement.
According to City Manager Stuart Bedenbaugh, two separate appraisals have valued this prime piece of real estate around $300,000. The bank’s asking price will include some additional fees, bringing the final price to $328,075. Who doesn’t love a good deal?
Looking Ahead to City Growth
But that’s not all the council will discuss! They will also consider zoning ordinances, a new oil change shop on Jefferson Davis Highway, and they’ll talk about plans for tiny homes in the city. Plus, an update on recovery efforts from Tropical Storm Helene should provide some insight into how Aiken is bouncing back from recent weather events.
So, mark your calendars for this upcoming council meeting! The bright skies of Aiken might just be a sign of the exciting and dynamic changes coming to town. It’s a busy time, and as these new developments unfold, Aiken residents can expect to see their community thrive with fresh opportunities and a new wave of vibrancy!
