Lexington County Council voted 8-1 for a 6-month home building halt Tuesday.

Supporters say large builders have created a public health and safety crisis.

Glenn Conwell was the lone no vote.

The ordinance will require a 2nd vote to become official.

The county will refuse applications for large residential subdivisions in unincorporated areas.

County Councilwoman Charli Wessinger, chair of the Planning Committee, said, “This is meant to be a short-term measure.”

The ordinance was presented at the April 13 county council meeting.

Earl McLeod of the Building Industry Association of Central South Carolina opposed the move in an email to the council.

McLeod called a moratorium an illegitimate use of county police powers that denies property owners’ rights.

“You may think you are targeting a specific problem. You are doing damage to the hard won reputation that Lexington County has gained as a community open for business.

“Nationwide 61% of new construction occurs in subdivisions.

“In Lexington County, that’s a large share of housing supply that would be blocked.”

McLeod said builders are not producing enough hous ing to keep it affordable.

“A moratorium will make it impossible for our teachers, nurses, and public safety workers to live in our county.”

Wessinger reprersents fast-growing Chapin.

She said, “The rapid growth to date has created a public safety issue from lack of infrastructure to support the traffic needs on state and county roads, overcrowded schools and a growing need on EMS and police services.”