The renovation and expansion of a house of worship that has been in Evans for more than 100 years may finally be underway after a favorable vote during the Columbia County Planning Commission’s meeting, Thursday evening, its last of 2024.
In May, Clark Grove Baptist Church at 3592 Evans to Locks Road, submitted its request to revise its S-1 Special district zoning. According to the project narrative, a growing congregation and an aging church building prompted the church to plan to construct a new 2,600 square foot structure (originally planned at more than 4,100 square feet) and pave additional parking space.
Though it has an Evans to Locks Road address, the 1.09-acre parcel is tucked away past an easement near the intersection Evans to Locks and Old Stevens Creek roads, and is surrounded by residences.
The Planning Department noted several issues in its initial review of the request, including easements, along with parking arrangements and fire truck access. Though originally scheduled for the Planning Commission to review in July, it had been postponed as far as September, after which it was frequently tabled again. The planning staff, in its most recent report on the petition, noted that the church recently hired a civil engineer and surveyor to help update its redevelopment plans.
With no opposition, the commissioners unanimously voted to recommend approval for the church’s request.
“I just want to let you know how much we appreciate that it gave us a feeling that we as a county, that we work together. And I felt at the time we went through some wisdom, you know, but through the whole process, we felt the support, and we felt that the vision that God had given us, that you all wanted to see it accomplish as much, and that meant a lot. So tonight, we’re just looking to say
“It’s been a great journey,” said Marcella Glover, pastor of Clark Grove Baptist, commending the planning staff for working with the church. “We just appreciate all the help, all the support, that you all have given, and we’re just looking for greater things ahead, for not just for Clark Grove, but for our community and us working together as a team.”
The Planning Commission would also decide in favor of three businesses in the area.
Jerrilyn Sweat petitioned for a major planned unit development (PUD) revision at 4408 Columbia Road, is located, to allow for her licensed massage business to operate in one of the offices.
Kesha Hayes requested a conditional use for an office suite in Building 12 of the Columbia Road Professional Center, where she is moving her enterprise, Professional Development and Training Services, from Lugoff, S.C. Hayes’ business offers vocational training in the healthcare field, mostly via virtual classes, with occasional practical training at the site.
Perry Hall sought a provisional home occupation for his home in Harlem in order to operate Self Reliant Solar, refurbishing used solar panels.
All three business owners received unanimous votes from the Planning Commission to recommend approval of their requests.
Skyler Andrews is a reporter covering business for The Augusta Press. Reach him at skyler@theaugustapress.com.
