Aiken, South Carolina, October 26, 2025
News Summary
The Aiken County Council convened to discuss essential regulations on smoke and vape shops while promoting economic development initiatives. They approved an ordinance restricting the locations of these businesses near educational and recreational facilities. Additionally, the council approved an economic development project expected to generate significant investment and job creation. Alongside these measures, zoning changes were also made to support local growth.
Aiken, South Carolina – Aiken County Council Takes Legislative Action on Smoke Shops and Economic Development Initiatives
Aiken County Council held a crucial meeting on October 21, 2025, at the Aiken County Government Center, discussing new regulations on smoke and vape shops and incentivizing economic development in the area. The council unanimously approved the first reading of an ordinance aimed at restricting the location of smoke and vape shops within county lines.
The proposed ordinance would amend the Land Management Regulations in the Aiken County Code of Ordinances. If passed in three readings, smoke and vape shops would be prohibited from opening within 2,000 feet of educational institutions, daycare facilities, youth centers, recreational facilities, public parks, community centers, and churches. Additionally, the new law would prevent the establishment of new smoke or vape shops within 2,000 feet of existing ones. While the changes would only apply to county property and not incorporated municipalities like Aiken, current businesses that operate within the proposed distance would be grandfathered in.
The recommendations for this ordinance originated from the Aiken County Planning Commission, which conducted discussions and research prior to making a recommendation. The Planning Commission voted 5-0 in favor of sending the recommendations to the County Council on September 18. All members of the county council were present for the vote on October 21.
Alongside the ordinance regarding smoke shops, the council also approved the second reading of an ordinance related to a fee-in-lieu of tax incentive for an economic development project known as “Project Homeland.” This project promises an investment estimated at approximately $12.1 million and the creation of around 80 new full-time jobs.
Furthermore, the council approved the third reading of an ordinance changing the zoning designation of property at 494 Fox Pond Road from Residential-Horse Business District to Agricultural Preservation District. A first reading was also discussed regarding a zoning change for property in the Sudlow Lake/Addie Road area of Graniteville, although no motions were made for further consideration at this time. As a result, plans to build a storage facility on the designated land will not proceed.
Council members P.K. Hightower and Landon Ball contributed to the discussions during the meeting, highlighting the administrative engagement with these legislative initiatives. Local government officials aim to address both community health concerns relating to the spread of smoke and vape shops and to boost local job creation through economic development projects.
This meeting and its outcomes reflect the ongoing efforts by Aiken County officials to balance business growth with community welfare and zoning regulations, signifying an active approach to governance in a rapidly evolving economic landscape.
FAQ
Where did the Aiken County Council meeting take place?
The Aiken County Council meeting took place at the Aiken County Government Center.
What ordinance did the council vote on during the meeting?
The council voted 9-0 to approve the first reading of an ordinance to restrict the location of smoke and vape shops.
How far from certain facilities would smoke and vape shops be restricted?
If approved, smoke and vape shops would not be allowed within 2,000 feet of educational institutions, daycare facilities, youth centers, recreational facilities, public parks, community centers, and churches.
What is “Project Homeland”?
“Project Homeland” is an economic development project involving an estimated investment of approximately $12.1 million and could create around 80 new full-time jobs.
What zoning changes were approved related to 494 Fox Pond Road?
The council approved the third reading of an ordinance changing the zoning designation for a property at 494 Fox Pond Road from Residential-Horse Business District to Agricultural Preservation District.
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Meeting Date | October 21, 2025 |
| Vote on Smoke and Vape Shop Ordinance | 9-0 approval for the first reading |
| Distance Restrictions | 2,000 feet from schools, daycare, parks, etc. |
| Project Homeland Investment | Approximately $12.1 million |
| Jobs Created | Around 80 full-time jobs |
| Zoning Change Location | 494 Fox Pond Road |
| Zoning Change Type | From Residential-Horse Business District to Agricultural Preservation District |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Aiken County Takes Action Against Vaping Near Schools
Aiken County Proposes Restrictions on Vape Shops Near Schools
Aiken County Considers New Regulations for Vape Shops
Additional Resources
- Post and Courier: Aiken County Council Votes on Vape Shop Regulations
- WRDW: SC Lawmaker Calls on Aiken County for Action
- WJBF: State Rep Calls on Aiken County Leaders
- WRDW: Tiny Homes Plan in Aiken Paused
- Post and Courier: Aiken County Sheriff Office and County Council Update
- Wikipedia: Aiken, South Carolina
- Google Search: Aiken South Carolina
- Google Scholar: Aiken South Carolina news
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Aiken
- Google News: Aiken South Carolina news
Author: STAFF HERE AIKEN
The AIKEN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAiken.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Aiken, Aiken County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Aiken Horse Show, Aiken Bluegrass Festival, and polo matches at Whitney Field. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Aiken Chamber of Commerce and the Aiken County Historical Museum, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and tourism that power the local economy such as Bridgestone and the Aiken County Visitors Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
