Georgetown Mayor to hold open forum on proposed zoning moratorium
February 9, 2026
Georgetown Mayor Jay Doyle announced via Facebook plans to hold an open forum to discuss the proposed zoning moratorium for the city. The event will be held on Thursday, February 12 at 5:00 pm at the Winyah Auditorium (1200 Highmarket Street). State Senator Stephen Goldfinch is also scheduled to participate.
Last month, the mayor’s proposed zoning moratorium ordinance passed first reading by a vote of 4-3 at the January 15 city council meeting. The ordinance would place a 180-day moratorium on any rezoning of existing parcels, subdivision of any property into three or more parcels, and in zoning variance requests within the city limits. Doyle has said previously that addressing development and annexation to ensure sustainable growth is paramount to the city’s future financial well-being and success.
The six-month break would allow the city’s leadership to retain more planning staff, get a thorough update on the city’s Comprehensive Plan as well as conduct a review of the city’s utilities infrastructure. He has described the moratorium as a “pumping of the brakes – not stopping the car.”
The public is encouraged to attend and participate in the discussion, which will mainly focus on the rezoning topic. The mayor will address the audience and then open it up for individuals to come forward, make comments and ask questions. The event will also be livestreamed on the city’s official government Facebook page.
The second reading of the ordinance is expected to be on the council’s agenda for its February 19 council meeting.
