Petition to Stop the Rezoning of Agricultural Land for Development
RE: TMS #: 0327-00-00-005.000, 0328-00-02-042.000, 0328-00-03-012.000, 
0328-00-04-002.000, and a portion of 0373-00-00-003.000

To: Orangeburg County Council

We, the undersigned, strongly oppose the rezoning of agricultural land in Orangeburg County, South Carolina for commercial or residential development.

Our rural community thrives on its agricultural heritage, local economy, and the preservation of open spaces. The proposed rezoning of farmland for development threatens to disrupt our way of life, displace long-standing residents, and lead to the harmful effects of gentrification.

Reasons for Our Opposition:

1. Loss of Agricultural Land – The rezoning of farmland for development permanently removes essential land needed for food production, local farming, and sustainable agriculture. This shift not only undermines our farming community but also increases our dependence on imported food sources.
2. Threat to Local Farmers and Economy – Agriculture is the backbone of our local economy. With the loss of farmland, many family-owned farms and small businesses that rely on farming will be forced to shut down or relocate. This threatens jobs, economic stability, and the character of our rural community.
3. Increased Housing Costs and Displacement – Rezoning for development encourages high-cost residential projects that are unaffordable to many current residents. As wealthier individuals and developers move in, property values, taxes, and living costs will rise, forcing out long-time residents who can no longer afford to stay.
4. Environmental Impact – Urbanization of agricultural land leads to increased pollution, habitat destruction, and a loss of green spaces. The environmental costs, including loss of biodiversity, soil degradation, and water resource depletion, are irreversible.
5. Negative Impact on Our Lake – Development near our lake will lead to increased runoff, pollution, and sedimentation, harming water quality and aquatic ecosystems. Construction and urbanization contribute to chemical contamination and nutrient overload, leading to algae blooms and habitat destruction for fish and other wildlife. The lake is a vital resource for recreation, wildlife, and our local environment, and its degradation will have long-term consequences for the entire community.
6. Strain on Infrastructure and Public Services – Large-scale development brings an influx of new residents, placing undue pressure on roads, schools, healthcare facilities, and public utilities. Rural communities often lack the infrastructure to support such rapid growth, leading to overburdened services and declining quality of life.

Our Demand:

We urge Orangeburg County Council, Planning Commission, or Other Relevant Entities to reject any rezoning proposals that threaten the agricultural land in Orangeburg County, specifically on Lake Marion. Instead, we call for policies that prioritize:

• Preserving farmland and rural landscapes for future generations.
• Supporting sustainable development practices that do not displace local residents.
• Encouraging community-driven planning that reflects the needs and values of long-standing residents.
By signing this petition, we affirm our commitment to protecting the agricultural identity, affordability, and sustainability of our community. We urge policymakers to take a stand against rezoning and urban development that disregards the voices of local farmers, families, and community members.

Sign Below to Show Your Support:

Together, we can safeguard our community from unnecessary and harmful development. Thank you for standing with us in this critical fight to preserve our land and heritage.