Design Review Board Meeting May 5, 2026 Part 2

The City of Aiken Design Review Board held a meeting on May 5, 2026, primarily addressing a contentious fencing application at 618 Magnolia Street Southeast. The board discussed the non-conforming nature of a wire fence topped with barbed wire, which exceeded the six-foot height limit stipulated in the historic district guidelines. After reviewing photographic evidence and public comments opposing the fence's design and height, the board voted to deny the application, emphasizing adherence to design standards and discouraging retroactive approvals. The board also discussed procedural matters related to zoning ordinance amendments aimed at preventing delays in certificate of appropriateness reviews due to unclear property designation categories, with a motion to table the amendment request pending further review.