Add Row

Add Element

update

Around the Upstate Podcast

update

Add Element

Home
Categories
- Upstate Featured
- Living
- Wellness
- Homegrown Business
- Arts & Culture
- Outdoors
- Community
- Episodes
- Events
- Education
- Style & Trends
- Voices
- Attractions
- Other News

September 23.2025

2 Minutes Read

Oconee County Council Rejects 5,200-Home Development Amid Developer Threats

Oconee County emblem with map and motto from 1868.

Oconee County Council's Bold Stance on Development

The Oconee County Council has taken a definitive stand against a proposed 5,200-home development in Newry, rejecting the plans put forth by East Shore South, LLC. Council Chairman Matthew Durham highlighted the development's major violation of the local density ordinances, emphasizing potential impacts on the county's infrastructure, including roads and schools.

Developer's Backlash and Community Response

Mark Hart, the developer behind the project, has not taken the rejection lightly. Known for his previous management role in the NFL and controversial history with the Rock Hill Panthers facility, Hart has threatened legal actions and a media campaign should the Council not reconsider its decision. However, Durham's response has been clear: "Oconee County is not for sale," a sentiment echoing through the community as residents rally behind the Council's prioritization of local standards over outside pressures.

The Future of Oconee County's Development Plans

This bold move by the Oconee County Council sends a strong message about the community's commitment to maintaining its character and protecting local interests from aggressive external developments. As issues of urbanization and infrastructure pressures continue to rise in many regions, Oconee's decision serves as a reminder that local governance must hold steadfast against potentially disruptive developments, ensuring that growth is balanced and meets the needs of current residents. The consequence of ignoring local standards could affect more than just the landscape — it raises significant questions about the role of developers in local planning and the influence they might wield over community decisions.

Community

0 Comments

Write A Comment

*

Related Posts All Posts

09.23.2025

Oconee County Parents Charged with Homicide by Child Abuse: A Community in Shock

Update Tragic Incident in Oconee County On September 19, 2025, a shocking tragedy unfolded in Oconee County when the Oconee County Coroner’s Office responded to a child death at 417 Forest Acres Circle in Walhalla. Four-year-old Isaiah Joseph Dionne was found unresponsive, prompting an emergency call at approximately 6:20 a.m. Sadly, he was pronounced dead at the scene. SLED Takes Charge Due to the suspicious circumstances surrounding the child’s death, the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) stepped in, specifically the Special Victims Unit. Their investigation led to the arrest of Destiny Shay Dionne, Isaiah's mother, and Joshua Latimer, his stepfather. Initial charges included two counts of unlawful conduct toward a child relating to both Isaiah and his two-year-old sibling. Homicide Charges Follow Following an autopsy on September 22, 2025, Isaiah's death was ruled a homicide, prompting SLED to upgrade the charges. Destiny was charged with homicide by child abuse, while Latimer faced charges for aiding and abetting in the child’s death. The stepfather, a former trooper with the South Carolina Highway Patrol, was terminated from his position at the time of his arrest. Future Implications As both parents remain in custody, their cases will be prosecuted by the Tenth Circuit Solicitor’s Office. This tragic event raises critical discussions about child safety and welfare, as well as the responsibilities of caregivers. The ongoing investigation and eventual court proceedings will undoubtedly capture the attention of the community and beyond, examining the deeper societal issues at play.

09.23.2025

I-85 Accident in Oconee: One Fatality and Traffic Shutdown

Update Tragic Accident on I-85 Claims LifeThis morning, the South Carolina state patrol confirmed a tragic fatality resulting from a multi-vehicle collision on Interstate 85, in the vicinity of Oconee County. The accident, which occurred around 6:00 AM near the SC 59 interchange at Fair Play, involved four vehicles, one of which was a tractor-trailer. The severity of the incident led authorities to close both sides of the interstate for an extended period, causing significant traffic delays.The Impact on Commuters and Local ResidentsAs emergency crews worked at the scene, traffic was diverted away from the site of the accident, creating a ripple effect for commuters using one of the state's major thoroughfares. Motorists traveling through the area were advised to exercise caution due to detours and temporary road closures. Such accidents on busy highways highlight the importance of safe driving practices, especially during early morning hours when visibility can be a concern.Reflecting on Road SafetyThis incident adds to the ongoing conversation about road safety in South Carolina. With the rise in traffic on highways like I-85, the need for public awareness regarding safe driving measures is more critical than ever. Drivers are urged to remain vigilant at all times, adhere to speed limits, and avoid distractions, particularly on high-traffic routes. Every life lost on our roads is a tragic reminder of the importance of taking care while behind the wheel.

09.23.2025

Tragic Fatality on I-85: Remembering Rafael B. Veloz

Update A Tragic Incident on I-85A devastating multi-vehicle crash occurred on I-85 this morning, resulting in the untimely death of 34-year-old Rafael B. Veloz from Buford, Georgia. According to Coroner Addis, Veloz was found entrapped in his vehicle after emergency responders worked to extricate him. Despite receiving life support measures, he tragically succumbed to his injuries at the scene around 7:10 AM.The Impact of Highway CrashesThis incident underscores a critical issue: the alarming frequency of fatal accidents on major highways like I-85. Drivers often navigate these routes at high speeds, which increases the potential for catastrophic accidents. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has highlighted that such incidents frequently result in severe injuries or fatalities due to excessive speed and driver error.Community and Family ReactionsAs the community processes this tragedy, emotions run high among relatives and friends of the deceased. The loss of a loved one in such circumstances sends ripples through the lives of many and raises awareness about the importance of road safety. Local residents are called to reflect on safe driving practices, particularly in high-traffic areas where accidents are more prone to occur.Moving Forward: Promoting Safety on the RoadsIn the wake of this tragic event, there is an opportunity for increased dialogue surrounding road safety. Local authorities and communities may consider hosting educational forums focused on safe driving techniques and awareness campaigns to help prevent future accidents. Enhancing safety measures on highways can significantly reduce the risk of similar tragedies in the future.

Terms of Service

Privacy Policy

Core Modal Title

Topic Places

Sorry, no results found

You Might Find These Articles Interesting

T

Please Check Your Email
We Will Be Following Up Shortly

Full Name

*

Email

*

Mobile Phone

*

Receive SMS Text Updates - optional

I Accept To Receive Additional Info