City of Florence Planning Commission - January 13, 2026

The City of Florence Planning Commission convened on January 13, 2026, to discuss several zoning and development matters. Key agenda items included a request to amend signage restrictions for the new Ebenezer Baptist Church to allow a larger monument sign, the annexation and rezoning of an 11.67-acre parcel at 2916 West Palmetto Street for a townhouse development, and updates to the Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) to better regulate itinerant vendor sales and mobile services through permitting processes. The commission also reviewed a sketch plan for the West Haven Town Homes development, addressing concerns about street design, emergency access, and buffer zones. Discussions emphasized compliance with fire codes, public safety, and ensuring proper permitting for temporary commercial activities. The commission approved the various requests with conditions, including eliminating variances for street radii and ensuring adequate emergency access. Members also expressed a desire for improved staff communication and earlier distribution of meeting materials to facilitate informed decision-making.