Columbia, September 27, 2025
News Summary
Columbia officials have issued a stop work order for renovations at South Saluda Apartments, initiated by new owners without proper permits. The modifications, aimed at accommodating more student renters, have raised community concerns regarding safety and increased rentability. A zoning board meeting is scheduled to discuss the future of these renovations, which could impact property use regulations in the area.
Columbia officials have issued a stop work order for renovations at the South Saluda Apartments, which were being conducted without proper permits. The new owners of the property, local real estate broker Kathy Taylor and her family, began modifications shortly after purchasing the apartments for over $3.5 million in February, nearly $1 million above the assessed value of the property.
The city’s decision to halt renovations follows community concerns that the modifications are intended to accommodate more student renters, particularly as the apartments are located between Five Points and Rosewood Drive, an area popular among students and young professionals. Evidence of this concern includes plans to convert eight of the 24 units from two bedrooms to three bedrooms and expand bathrooms. Additional plans to convert more units are pending approval.
A zoning board is set to meet on October 2 to evaluate whether the renovation work may continue. Neighbors have raised red flags about the potential for increased rentability and adherence to safety regulations. The city’s Planning Department has stated that the unpermitted work constitutes an “intensification” of the property’s use, which complicates the property owner’s request for retroactive permits. The outcome of the zoning board meeting will play a critical role in determining the future of these renovation plans and may set a vital precedent for similar developments in the area.
Community leadership, represented by neighborhood president Guy Jones, has expressed long-standing concerns about renovations conducted without proper permissions. Jones has urged the city to deny any further work and restore the units to their original state. On the other hand, Kathy Taylor argues that the renovations are critical due to past neglect of the property and are intended to enhance its value. She has emphasized that they do not plan to exceed legal occupancy levels.
As the situation unfolds, the city officials are expected to provide more detailed information on the renovation plans and their adherence to local building codes. The community remains vigilant while awaiting the zoning board’s decision, which will ultimately shape the future landscape of the South Saluda Apartments.
Background of the Property
The South Saluda Apartments, which were previously known as Plantation Court, have been a fixture in the area since they were built in 1967. The apartments cater primarily to student renters and young professionals, making the ongoing renovations a focal point of community discussion. The neighborhood association is keen on ensuring that any changes to the property align with the standards and expectations of the community.
Details on the Owner
Kathy Taylor and her family, the current owners, purchased the property in February 2023. Following the acquisition, they initiated renovations without securing the necessary building permits, prompting intervention from city authorities. The community response has been mixed, with many residents supporting the need for improvements while being wary of the potential consequences of unpermitted modifications.
Key Dates
- Purchase Date: February 2023
- Zoning Board Meeting: October 2, 2023
Impact of Unpermitted Work
City officials have outlined that the unpermitted renovations complicate the request for retroactive permits. This stipulation underscores the ongoing complexities surrounding the development and the need for conformity to existing regulations. The performance of the zoning board at their upcoming meeting will be essential in determining whether the renovations can advance or if the project will revert to its original state.
Future Outlook
As the neighborhood association and city officials prepare for the zoning board meeting, the implications of their decisions could resonate throughout Columbia, particularly concerning property use regulations and community development standards.
FAQ Section
What is the status of the renovations at South Saluda Apartments?
The city issued a stop work order due to lack of building permits for the renovations.
Who are the owners of the South Saluda Apartments?
The property owners are local real estate broker Kathy Taylor and her family, who purchased the apartments for over $3.5 million in February.
When is the zoning board meeting regarding the renovations?
The zoning board will determine if the renovation work can continue on October 2.
What modifications are being made to the apartments?
The renovations included converting eight of the 24 units from two bedrooms to three bedrooms and expanding bathrooms.
What are the community concerns regarding the renovations?
Neighbors suspect the renovations aim to accommodate more student renters and fear increasing rentability without proper permissions and adherence to safety regulations.
Key Features of South Saluda Apartments Renovations
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Owners | Kathy Taylor and family |
| Purchase Price | Over $3.5 million |
| Units Modified | 8 of 24 units converted from two bedrooms to three bedrooms |
| Location | Between Five Points and Rosewood Drive |
| Zoning Board Meeting Date | October 2, 2023 |
| Community Concerns | Increased rentability and safety regulation compliance |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Columbia Riverfront Development: Progressing into Reality
Columbia’s Plans for a New Riverfront Park
Capitol Square Redevelopment Project Approved in West Columbia
Additional Resources
- The State: Proposed Columbia Apartments Would Add 800 Beds Near USC
- Wikipedia: Columbia, South Carolina
- Post and Courier: Apartments in Five Points, Downtown Columbia
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Columbia
- WLTX: New Apartments in Downtown Columbia
Author: STAFF HERE LEXINGTON WRITER
The LEXINGTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERELexington.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Lexington, Fayette County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Woodland Art Fair, Crave Food and Music Festival, and Railbird Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like Commerce Lexington and Blue Grass Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in education, manufacturing, and technology that power the local economy such as University of Kentucky, Toyota Motor Manufacturing, and Lexmark. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBowlingGreen.com and HERELouisville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Kentucky's dynamic landscape.
