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Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Repair in North Charleston, SC

The summers can be hot and humid, especially near coastal areas, meaning your HVAC system works extra hard in the afternoons. On the opposite side of the spectrum, winters can be cold and chilly enough to cause ice storms and months of winter jacket-wearing.

That's why it's crucial that home and business owners have access to a trustworthy HVAC system that is ready to keep you warm when needed and cool when the temps heat up. But in order to maintain and repair complex residential and commercial HVAC systems, you need a team of reliable technicians to take care of you and your family. JAC Services has got your HVAC repair in North Charleston, SC covered, no matter how large or small the problem.

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Why We Best

The JAC Services Difference

At JAC Services, we specialize in providing top-notch installation, repairs, and maintenance services for HVAC systems in homes, businesses, and restaurants. Moreover, we are a reputable food equipment service provider that utilizes cutting-edge technology and upholds the highest standards of integrity and excellence.

We aim to provide you with the same level of exceptional service, skilled HVAC repair, and affordable prices that we would want for ourselves. At the end of the day, our goal is to keep you comfortable in your home or business while providing you with the necessary equipment and repairs to keep on working. And as locals who live in the Lowcountry, we're committed to providing those services at prices that won't make you go bankrupt. And that, in a nutshell, is what makes us stand apart from others: personalized and reliable HVAC services that you can rely on 24/7.

A few of our specialties include:

  • HVAC Repair in North Charleston, SC
  • HVAC Maintenance
  • Residential HVAC Services
  • Commercial HVAC Services
  • Refrigeration and Freezer Repair
  • Food Service & Restaurant Equipment Maintenance

Whether your restaurant needs new equipment ASAP or the HVAC unit in your commercial property is acting up, our team has the tools and training to fix your problem correctly, so you can get back to loving life in South Carolina.

Residential HVAC Repair in North Charleston, SC

They say that home is where the heart is, but it's also where you're most comfortable - unless, of course, your A/C or heat goes out when you need it most. When it does, you need a reliable source of help that can remediate the situation quickly and with professionalism, and that's where JAC Services comes in.

JAC Services is here to take care of all your heating, cooling, and HVAC requirements, whether you require a regular HVAC check or an urgent repair on your heating or cooling system. Our team of skilled technicians is committed to providing personalized and prompt service that goes above and beyond your expectations. Why? Because that's how we would want our families treated, too.

It all starts with an in-depth inspection to determine what the problem is. From there, our skilled technicians will help you select the best HVAC solution for your needs. We offer a wide range of residential HVAC services, including:

  • Preventative Maintenance Programs
  • Heating & Air Repair
  • Tankless Water Heater Repair and Installation
  • UV Light Installation
  • Coil Cleaning
  • Belt Replacement
  • Filter Changes
  • Drain Pan Cleaning
  • More

Once we discover the best HVAC services for your needs, we use of the highest quality parts and time-tested preventative maintenance solutions to ensure your home is comfortable year-round.

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How Preventative Maintenance is Key to Residential HVAC Longevity

As homeowners, it's crucial to ensure that our HVAC systems are maintained year-round. Whether they're keeping us cool during hot summers or giving us warmth during South Carolina's cold winters, HVAC systems work tirelessly to ensure a cozy indoor environment for ourselves and our families. However, it's important to note that regular maintenance is key to maintaining efficiency, minimizing costs, and increasing the lifespan of your HVAC system.

Here are just a few of the most common reasons why regular preventative maintenance is a smart investment for homeowners in The Palmetto State:

Cost Savings

On the surface, paying for HVAC repair in North Charleston, SC, may seem like you're wasting money, but nothing could be further from the truth. In fact, investing in an HVAC maintenance plan from JAC Services can actually end up saving you hard-earned money in the long run. Here's how:

  • Expensive Repairs: Preventative maintenance is great for finding and fixing potentially expensive HVAC issues early on before big breakdowns happen, which can cost much more money.
  • Increased HVAC System Lifespan: As is the case with any type of mechanical system, your HVAC unit won't run forever. Fortunately, regular maintenance from licensed professionals can increase your system's longevity by delaying the need for an expensive system replacement.
  • Maintaining Warranty: When was the last time you looked at your HVAC system's warranty? Many warranties require homeowners to keep their units maintained with regular service. In doing so, you're protecting your investment while avoiding the huge headaches associated with voided HVAC warranties.

Efficiency

HVAC repair in North Charleston, SC, is key to achieving optimal efficiency. With time, your system can accumulate dust, debris, and other contaminants that can affect its performance. On the other hand, a well-maintained HVAC system can provide you with consistent and efficient heating and cooling, ensuring that you stay comfortable while minimizing energy waste.

Check out these benefits of regular HVAC maintenance for improved efficiency:

  • Enhanced Airflow: Maintenance plans from JAC Services can include system cleanouts and filter replacements, both of which promote proper airflow and air distribution around your home.
  • Less Energy: A well-maintained HVAC system means it's running optimally, which translates to less energy consumption and, by proxy, lower power bills.
  • Proper Performance: Taking care of minor HVAC issues with professional maintenance often prevents major problems that affect your HVAC unit's performance. Lack of performance can lead to breakdowns and costly repairs, neither of which you want.

Longevity of the HVAC System

Most homeowners think of their HVAC unit as an investment, and they'd be right. But to keep that unit working for years, proper maintenance and repairs are often necessary. Here's why:

  • Less Damage: By nipping smaller issues in the bud early and keeping your system free of debris, ongoing maintenance plans help minimize wear and tear while prolonging your HVAC system's life.
  • Longer-Lasting Performance: When an HVAC system is well-maintained, it performs to the best of its ability, delivering trustworthy cooling and heating year-round.
  • Peace of Mind: When you have your system maintained by professionals, you can have the peace of mind knowing your unit is in good hands. And when your HVAC is cared for by the pros, you can rest easy knowing your unit will work for a long time to come.

It's smart to keep in mind that HVAC maintenance isn't a one-time chore. It's best to have it done regularly by a team of professionals. That way, you and your family can reap the full benefits of your HVAC unit.

Remember - maintaining your HVAC system involves more than just simple cleaning and inspection. It requires a number of important tasks, including draining the system, inspecting capacitors and motor amperages, adjusting fan speeds, cleaning coils, setting gas pressures, conducting safety inspections, checking electrical connections, and calibrating controls. By taking these additional steps, you can optimize the performance of your HVAC system and minimize the likelihood of unexpected breakdowns while ensuring that you enjoy comfortable indoor temperatures throughout the year.

Cost Savings

On the surface, paying for HVAC repair in North Charleston, SC, may seem like you're wasting money, but nothing could be further from the truth. In fact, investing in an HVAC maintenance plan from JAC Services can actually end up saving you hard-earned money in the long run. Here's how:

  • Expensive Repairs: Preventative maintenance is great for finding and fixing potentially expensive HVAC issues early on before big breakdowns happen, which can cost much more money.
  • Increased HVAC System Lifespan: As is the case with any type of mechanical system, your HVAC unit won't run forever. Fortunately, regular maintenance from licensed professionals can increase your system's longevity by delaying the need for an expensive system replacement.
  • Maintaining Warranty: When was the last time you looked at your HVAC system's warranty? Many warranties require homeowners to keep their units maintained with regular service. In doing so, you're protecting your investment while avoiding the huge headaches associated with voided HVAC warranties.

Efficiency

HVAC repair in North Charleston, SC, is key to achieving optimal efficiency. With time, your system can accumulate dust, debris, and other contaminants that can affect its performance. On the other hand, a well-maintained HVAC system can provide you with consistent and efficient heating and cooling, ensuring that you stay comfortable while minimizing energy waste.

Check out these benefits of regular HVAC maintenance for improved efficiency:

  • Enhanced Airflow: Maintenance plans from JAC Services can include system cleanouts and filter replacements, both of which promote proper airflow and air distribution around your home.
  • Less Energy: A well-maintained HVAC system means it's running optimally, which translates to less energy consumption and, by proxy, lower power bills.
  • Proper Performance: Taking care of minor HVAC issues with professional maintenance often prevents major problems that affect your HVAC unit's performance. Lack of performance can lead to breakdowns and costly repairs, neither of which you want.

Longevity of the HVAC System

Most homeowners think of their HVAC unit as an investment, and they'd be right. But to keep that unit working for years, proper maintenance and repairs are often necessary. Here's why:

  • Less Damage: By nipping smaller issues in the bud early and keeping your system free of debris, ongoing maintenance plans help minimize wear and tear while prolonging your HVAC system's life.
  • Longer-Lasting Performance: When an HVAC system is well-maintained, it performs to the best of its ability, delivering trustworthy cooling and heating year-round.
  • Peace of Mind: When you have your system maintained by professionals, you can have the peace of mind knowing your unit is in good hands. And when your HVAC is cared for by the pros, you can rest easy knowing your unit will work for a long time to come.

It's smart to keep in mind that HVAC maintenance isn't a one-time chore. It's best to have it done regularly by a team of professionals. That way, you and your family can reap the full benefits of your HVAC unit.

Remember - maintaining your HVAC system involves more than just simple cleaning and inspection. It requires a number of important tasks, including draining the system, inspecting capacitors and motor amperages, adjusting fan speeds, cleaning coils, setting gas pressures, conducting safety inspections, checking electrical connections, and calibrating controls. By taking these additional steps, you can optimize the performance of your HVAC system and minimize the likelihood of unexpected breakdowns while ensuring that you enjoy comfortable indoor temperatures throughout the year.

Commercial HVAC Repair in North Charleston, SC

As a business owner, you know that commercial HVAC failure can cause major disruptions to your daily operations. Whether due to age, wear and tear, or unresolved issues, the sudden breakdown of your HVAC unit can lead to uncomfortable temperatures and unpleasant noises. At JAC Services, we understand the importance of keeping your commercial HVAC system running smoothly, and we're here to provide expert maintenance and repairs to ensure that your business stays comfortable and productive, no matter the time of year.

Our licensed and insured technicians offer a variety of commercial heating & air solutions tailored to your budget and specific needs, from one-off fixes to ongoing maintenance plans. We put our clients first when it comes to commercial HVAC repair, which is why so many entrepreneurs and "doers" choose JAC Services over the rest.

When you trust our team, you can rest easy knowing your business is in knowledgeable, capable hands. We always prioritize the following for our commercial clients:

  • Quick Response Times
  • High-Quality Workmanship
  • Full-Service HVAC Repair & Installations for Businesses in South Carolina
  • Competitive Pricing
  • Custom Maintenance Plans
  • More

When your HVAC system needs expert attention, don't risk your livelihood with amateurs - contact JAC Services today to get your job done right.

Coolers North Charleston, SC

Food Service & Restaurant Equipment Maintenance

As the coolest company in North Charleston, we know the best ways to turn up the heat. While JAC Services is known for HVAC repair in North Charleston, SC, we also provide commercial entities like restaurants with professional equipment maintenance and repairs. Because having the proper equipment is necessary, but making sure it works correctly is crucial. When it doesn't, your food service clients aren't happy, and your revenue stream suffers.

From fryers and grills to steamers and heating cabinets, we've got you covered, whether you're a restaurant in downtown North Charleston or a catering company in Summerville. We strive to exceed your expectations by ensuring that you receive prompt, individualized service from a team that truly cares about your success. Our high-trained technicians can help repair and maintain a wide range of restaurant equipment, including:

Have an emergency? Don't stress - we also offer last-minute equipment maintenance and repairs when you need them the most. Call us today for a quote on any restaurant equipment repair or maintenance need.

5 Signs It's Time to Repair Your Commercial Kitchen Equipment

It might not be fun to hear, but the truth is that commercial kitchen equipment doesn't last forever. Refrigerators experience leaks, freezers malfunction, and ventilation systems stop working. The issue is that when you're focused on providing excellent food and service to your customers, you may not be aware of these issues. Here are some of the most common warning signs that it's time to repair your restaurant equipment.

Problems Finding Parts

As your kitchen equipment ages, locating replacement parts may become increasingly difficult. This is a clear indication that your equipment has exceeded its recommended lifespan. Additionally, retrofitting can pose a challenge for repair technicians who must search for alternative parts to restore functionality. Not only can this be expensive, but it also elevates the risk of dangerous incidents such as fires, electrical issues, leaks of freon gas or natural gas, and more.

Unreliable Performance

Efficiency in your kitchen is paramount to providing excellent service and ensuring customer satisfaction. However, outdated commercial kitchen equipment can hinder performance and compromise the quality of your dishes. As such, it's crucial to address equipment issues promptly with professional repairs from JAC Services.

Disconcerted Staff

Having employees constantly complain about the workplace due to unreliable or unsafe equipment can lead to a high turnover rate, which is an expensive problem to have. Investing in equipment repairs can improve staff morale and help instill a sense of pride in their work.

Faulty Door Seals

It's crucial to keep the seals on your fridge door in good condition to maintain the temperature inside. If the seals aren't properly sealed, cold air can escape, and warm air can enter, which wastes energy and increases the risk of food spoiling. It's a good idea to check the seals regularly and call for repairs at the first sign of damage.

Problems Finding Parts

As your kitchen equipment ages, locating replacement parts may become increasingly difficult. This is a clear indication that your equipment has exceeded its recommended lifespan. Additionally, retrofitting can pose a challenge for repair technicians who must search for alternative parts to restore functionality. Not only can this be expensive, but it also elevates the risk of dangerous incidents such as fires, electrical issues, leaks of freon gas or natural gas, and more.

Unreliable Performance

Efficiency in your kitchen is paramount to providing excellent service and ensuring customer satisfaction. However, outdated commercial kitchen equipment can hinder performance and compromise the quality of your dishes. As such, it's crucial to address equipment issues promptly with professional repairs from JAC Services.

Disconcerted Staff

Having employees constantly complain about the workplace due to unreliable or unsafe equipment can lead to a high turnover rate, which is an expensive problem to have. Investing in equipment repairs can improve staff morale and help instill a sense of pride in their work.

Faulty Door Seals

It's crucial to keep the seals on your fridge door in good condition to maintain the temperature inside. If the seals aren't properly sealed, cold air can escape, and warm air can enter, which wastes energy and increases the risk of food spoiling. It's a good idea to check the seals regularly and call for repairs at the first sign of damage.

Commercial Refrigeration and Freezer Repair?

Ice is nice when it comes to keeping your refrigeration and freezer equipment operating at peak performance, and JAC Services is your partner in ensuring that happens. Our knowledgeable technicians will work closely with you and your management team to find refrigeration and food service equipment solutions that fit your business needs and budget. From repairs to preventative maintenance, JAC Services is the answer to all your refrigeration needs.

We specialize in several commercial refrigeration and freezer repair services, including:

  • Freezers
  • Coolers
  • Faucets
  • Ice Machines
  • Hot Water Heaters
  • Exhaust Hoods & Air
 Freezers North Charleston, SC

How Do I Know if I Need Commercial Freezer Repair?

  • Frost Buildup - Your unit should be freezing food, not itself. Consistent frost is a sign of sealing issues, which should be corrected ASAP.
  • Spoiled Food - The main goal of commercial fridges and freezers is to keep food fresh. If your food is spoiling, something is wrong.
  • Flooding - Like most commercial equipment in restaurants and kitchens, leaks are a telltale sign that you need equipment repair.
  • Strange Noises - Most commercial freezing equipment hums. But if you hear loud, unusual sounds (or even a lack of noise), it could be time to call for repairs.
  • Increased Energy Bill - One of the first signs your equipment needs repairs is that your power bill is more expensive than ever before.

Regular cleaning and maintenance are crucial to ensuring your commercial freezer is always in top condition. It's important to keep a lookout for any potential problems, as catching them early can prevent costly repairs and headaches for your business down the line. JAC Services is the go-to expert for all your commercial freezer and refrigerator maintenance needs. We offer repair services, installations, and even remote temperature monitoring to keep your business running smoothly. Don't hesitate to contact us today for all your freezer repair needs.

 Ice Machines North Charleston, SC

Why Choose Us?

Trust JAC Servies for the Best HVAC Repair in North Charleston, SC

At JAC Services, we're honored and privileged to serve homeowners and business owners in South Carolina. We're proud to have built an exceptional team of hardworking technicians and experts who are fully dedicated to providing you with HVAC repair in South Carolina - from minor repairs to major installations and everything in between.

Contact our office today so that we can learn more about your residential or commercial HVAC concerns. That way, we can provide you with a cost-effective solution, so you can continue being comfortable in your home or office.

Phone (843) 863-0465

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Latest News in North Charleston, SC

How to watch Charleston Southern Buccaneers vs. SC Upstate Spartans: Live stream, TV channel, start time for Saturday's NCAA Basketball game

SC Upstate is on the road but looking no worse for wear. They have jumped out to a quick 39-29 lead against Charleston Southern.If SC Upstate keeps playing like this, they'll bump their record up to 6-10 in no time. On the other hand, Charleston Southern will have to make due with a 5-12 record unless they turn things around (and fast).SC Upstate Spartans @ Charleston Southern BuccaneersCurrent Records: SC Upstate 5-10, Charleston Southern 5-11Charleston Southern will be in front of their home fans on Saturday, bu...

SC Upstate is on the road but looking no worse for wear. They have jumped out to a quick 39-29 lead against Charleston Southern.

If SC Upstate keeps playing like this, they'll bump their record up to 6-10 in no time. On the other hand, Charleston Southern will have to make due with a 5-12 record unless they turn things around (and fast).

SC Upstate Spartans @ Charleston Southern Buccaneers

Current Records: SC Upstate 5-10, Charleston Southern 5-11

Charleston Southern will be in front of their home fans on Saturday, but a look at the spread shows they might need that home-court advantage. The Charleston Southern Buccaneers and the SC Upstate Spartans will face off in a Big South battle at 2:00 p.m. ET at Buccaneer Fieldhouse. SC Upstate took a loss in their last contest and will be looking to turn the tables on Charleston Southern, who comes in off a win.

Charleston Southern's three-game losing streak finally came to an end on Wednesday. They came out on top against the Bulldogs by a score of 86-74. The victory was just what Charleston Southern needed coming off of a 77-56 loss in their prior match.

Meanwhile, SC Upstate fought the good fight in their overtime matchup against Winthrop on Saturday but wound up with a less-than-desirable result. They fell just short of the Eagles by a score of 82-80. SC Upstate has now taken an 'L' in back-to-back games.

The Buccaneers' win ended a 12-game drought on the road dating back to last season and puts them at 5-11. As for the Spartans, they have been struggling recently, as they've lost five of their last six matchups, which put a noticeable dent in their 5-10 record this season.

While only Charleston Southern took care of their fans the last time they played, both teams pleased bettors by covering the spread. Going forward, SC Upstate is expected to win a tight contest, barring any buzzer beaters. This will be their first time playing as the favorites on the road this season.

Charleston Southern ended up a good deal behind SC Upstate when the teams last played back in February of 2023, losing 77-60. Will Charleston Southern have more luck at home instead of on the road?

SC Upstate is a slight 1.5-point favorite against Charleston Southern, according to the latest college basketball odds.

The line on this game has moved a bit since it opened, as it started out with the Buccaneers as a 1-point favorite.

The over/under is set at 139.5 points.

See college basketball picks for every single game, including this one, from SportsLine's advanced computer model. Get picks now.

Charleston Southern and SC Upstate both have 5 wins in their last 10 games.

Charleston Southern vs. South Carolina Upstate Predictions, BetMGM Promo Codes, & Picks: Spread, Total - January 13

Saturday's contest between the Charleston Southern Buccaneers (5-11, 1-2 Big South) and South Carolina Upstate Spartans (5-10, 0-2 Big South) going head to head at The Buc Dome has a projected final score of 72-71 (based on our computer prediction) in favor of Charleston Southern, so expect a competitive matchup. The game will start at 2:00 PM ET on January 13.Oddsmakers have not yet set a line for this game....

Saturday's contest between the Charleston Southern Buccaneers (5-11, 1-2 Big South) and South Carolina Upstate Spartans (5-10, 0-2 Big South) going head to head at The Buc Dome has a projected final score of 72-71 (based on our computer prediction) in favor of Charleston Southern, so expect a competitive matchup. The game will start at 2:00 PM ET on January 13.

Oddsmakers have not yet set a line for this game.

Watch live college basketball games from all over the country, plus ESPN originals and more NCAA hoops content on ESPN+!

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Charleston Southern vs. South Carolina Upstate Game Info & Odds

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Charleston Southern vs. South Carolina Upstate Score Prediction

Spread & Total Prediction for Charleston Southern vs. South Carolina Upstate

Charleston Southern's record against the spread this season is 4-8-0, and South Carolina Upstate's is 5-7-0. Both the Buccaneers and the Spartans are 5-7-0 in terms of hitting the over in their games this season. In the last 10 games, Charleston Southern has a 4-6 record against the spread while going 2-8 overall. South Carolina Upstate has gone 4-6 against the spread and 2-8 overall in its last 10 matches.

Bet on this or any college basketball matchup at BetMGM

Other Big South Predictions

Charleston Southern Performance Insights

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South Carolina Upstate vs. Charleston Southern Predictions, BetMGM Promo Codes, & Picks: Spread, Total - January 13

Saturday's game between the Charleston Southern Buccaneers (5-11, 1-2 Big South) and South Carolina Upstate Spartans (5-10, 0-2 Big South) matching up at The Buc Dome has a projected final score of 72-71 (based on our computer prediction) in favor of Charleston Southern, so expect a tight matchup. The game will start at 2:00 PM ET on January 13.Bookmakers have not yet set a line for this matchup....

Saturday's game between the Charleston Southern Buccaneers (5-11, 1-2 Big South) and South Carolina Upstate Spartans (5-10, 0-2 Big South) matching up at The Buc Dome has a projected final score of 72-71 (based on our computer prediction) in favor of Charleston Southern, so expect a tight matchup. The game will start at 2:00 PM ET on January 13.

Bookmakers have not yet set a line for this matchup.

Watch live college basketball games from all over the country, plus ESPN originals and more NCAA hoops content on ESPN+!

Sportsbook Promo Codes

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DraftKings Click Here Bet $5 Get $200 In bonus bets instantly!
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South Carolina Upstate vs. Charleston Southern Game Info & Odds

Place your bets on any college basketball matchup at BetMGM, and sign up with our link for a first-time deposit bonus!

South Carolina Upstate vs. Charleston Southern Score Prediction

Spread & Total Prediction for South Carolina Upstate vs. Charleston Southern

Charleston Southern has compiled a 4-8-0 record against the spread this season, while South Carolina Upstate is 5-7-0. Both the Buccaneers and the Spartans are 5-7-0 in terms of hitting the over in their games this season. Charleston Southern has a 4-6 record against the spread while going 2-8 overall in the past 10 contests. South Carolina Upstate has gone 4-6 against the spread and 2-8 overall in its last 10 contests.

Bet on this or any college basketball matchup at BetMGM

Other Big South Predictions

South Carolina Upstate Performance Insights

Rep your team with officially licensed college basketball gear! Head to Fanatics to find jerseys, shirts, and much more.

Not all offers available in all states, please visit BetMGM for the latest promotions for your area. Must be 21+ to gamble, please wager responsibly. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, contact 1-800-GAMBLER.

Community resistance grows against proposed boat facility at former Baker Hospital site

NORTH CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCIV) — A proposed boat manufacturing facility still isn't sitting right with people who live near the former Baker Hospital Boulevard site in North Charleston.Sea Fox Boats announced plans to build a boating manufacturing plant at the site, and it raised concerns from community members. North Charleston Mayor Reggie Burgess...

NORTH CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCIV) — A proposed boat manufacturing facility still isn't sitting right with people who live near the former Baker Hospital Boulevard site in North Charleston.

Sea Fox Boats announced plans to build a boating manufacturing plant at the site, and it raised concerns from community members. North Charleston Mayor Reggie Burgess sent a letter to the Charleston County Parks and Recreation Commission in January stating that the area isn't zoned for that type of project and hasn't been since the 1980s. Lately, neighborhood sentiments haven't changed.

"It seems, to me, to be very inconsistent with the park's mission and their ideology," said Charlie Masencup, an owner of a parcel near site. "The entire deal smells really fishy. It happened behind closed doors with no transparency, not to the public, not to the adjacent landowners, to no one."

Craig Logan, the vice president of the Chicora Neighborhood Association, believes that the community wasn't engaged with enough in the deal.

"That's not what happened," Logan said.

READ MORE: "Controversy grows over proposed boat facility in North Charleston."

Ed Sutton, who is running for a state Senate seat, chimed in through a series of posts on X Monday night.

"I'm here to support the surrounding neighborhoods, churches and non-profits," he wrote.

State Rep. Marvin Pendarvis also added that his constituents' concerns are legitimate.

"I've heard from numerous members of the community in recent weeks who oppose the rezoning at the old Baker Hospital, much of which impacts my district," Pendarvis wrote on X. "Their concerns are legitimate and should be given considerable weight. I stand with Mayor Burgess and the community."

READ MORE: "Businessman defends controversial plan for Baker Hospital site, promising jobs and park."

Neighbors said this area is their only access to the Ashley River and the space should reflect what the community wants.

"If you look around this site is mostly unspoiled apart from what's across 26 behind me," Masencup said. "There's no industry on this side of the road at all., It's a completely inconsistent use. It does not jive with the neighbors, not with low-income housing, and or the elder care facility right behind you, both of which would be adjacent to their proposed facility.

READ MORE: "'John was brave': Boeing whistleblower's lawyer responds to news of his death."

In February, Sea Fox Boats owner Fred Renken defended his desire to build a boat manufacturing plant.

"My reputation's on the line with this, and I want it to be right," Renken said then. "We hit on all the things that Charleston County Parks and Rec that they want. They wanted to partner with us. They feel comfortable about it. I think it's a fair deal. The rent escalates over time. I'm not trying to take advantage of anybody. We're just trying to do a partnership with them."

However, neighbors would like to see a park with access to the water – not a boat manufacturing plant.

"We want to see a park," Logan said. "This is what they're supposed to be doing for the community. We would be appreciative if that's the route that this took."

N. Charleston argues plans for former Baker Hospital site, fate in council hands

NORTH CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCSC) - The future of land in North Charleston lies in the hands of city council members, and it’s a breath of relief for concerned community members and a strain for the company urging its industrial use.The city council will be the next step forward for the proposed plan after a request to rezone two parts of the former Baker Hospital property on the Ashley River. They will vote on whether the land will be rezoned from R-1 residential to M-2, heavy industrial and M-1, light industrial.The city&rs...

NORTH CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCSC) - The future of land in North Charleston lies in the hands of city council members, and it’s a breath of relief for concerned community members and a strain for the company urging its industrial use.

The city council will be the next step forward for the proposed plan after a request to rezone two parts of the former Baker Hospital property on the Ashley River. They will vote on whether the land will be rezoned from R-1 residential to M-2, heavy industrial and M-1, light industrial.

The city’s Planning Commission on Monday voted 5-1 to deny the recommendation to rezone before passing it onto council - saying it didn’t align with the best interest of the city’s comprehensive plan, the location to the Ashley River and the public interest of surrounding neighborhoods.

The land, defined as a brownfield, is a property, the expansion, redevelopment, or reuse of which may be complicated by the presence or potential presence of a hazardous substance, pollutant, or contaminant, the Environmental Protection Agency says.

“We don’t need industry in our living rooms. We don’t need to breathe the fluid of industry in our neighborhoods. We don’t need to be impacted negatively that way,” Union Heights resident Skip Mikell says.

The Charleston County Parks and Recreation Commission and Sea Fox Boats have a 90-year lease with the goal of building a manufacturing plant on 11 acres of the 46-acre property. Sea Fox Boats owner Freddy Renken says they plan to bring 200 or more jobs to the area and will fund the construction of a waterfront public park.

The commission says rent paid by Sea Fox Boats and its dry stack marina would offset operations and maintenance for the park. Nothing has been finalized or started because this is in a due diligence phase.

The park itself would have the following amenities:

Renken did not speak at the meeting but a company lawyer shared insight on his behalf:

“What is there not to want about this? To turn a brownfield into a park that provides jobs and an economic engine. With Sea Fox Boats, the City of North Charleston will be able to build planes, cars, boats. I think that is pretty cool,” Ronald Richter says.

Despite the push for approval, a resounding “no” was heard from a crowd of North Charleston homeowners and supporters. They say the company never shared its plans with surrounding neighborhoods and businesses, including Union Heights, Chicora-Cherokee and Accabee.

Mayor Reggie Burgess also pushed for a full recreational park option to be considered following the initial plan release.

Charleston County Parks states in this press release they planned on releasing public input meeting dates in early 2024. As of now, no updates have been provided.

The commission released the following statement:

The Charleston County Park and Recreation Commission (CCPRC) recently entered into a public-private partnership with the locally-owned Sea Fox Boat Company at its Ashley River site. The company is in a two-year due diligence phase, which includes addressing zoning and permitting issues.

Per the partnership, Charleston County Parks would continue to own the entire property, with tenant Sea Fox funding the creation and maintenance of the future public park. This would allow Charleston County Parks to develop and operate the park without taxpayer funds. Because of the site’s history as the former Baker Hospital and as a phosphate processing plant, it has created a brownfield that will require costly environmental efforts to make it suitable for recreational use.

The future county park would offer residents green space and views of the Ashley River. Other possible amenities at the park include a fishing/crabbing dock, trails, playground, splash pad, shelter for camps or programs, and unique event space. Public input meetings will be held to learn what the communities would like to see on the site. Once the zoning process has been completed, we will determine the timeline for the public input meetings.

Seventeen people spoke in opposition to the plan. Neighbors say adding the plant would not benefit their community in terms of work or play and are asking for the area to be solely a park.

“The neighborhoods we represent have some of the lowest unemployment rates in North Charleston. Chicora-Cherokee specifically has a 2.9 unemployment rate, which means our people are already working,” KJ Kearney says.

The planning commission stated in the agenda item they recommended denial because they believe the property’s location to the Ashley River makes the plant unfeasible and there is a “lack of support” to the city’s comprehensive plan.

Sea Fox Boats argues the area they are requesting rezoning for is on a brownfield, the former site of a phosphate processing plant and hospital, which would need environmental maintenance to make the area suitable for recreational purposes or greenspace.

North Charleston natives say they remember the smells, the sights and the feelings of growing up near the former plant and the concerns it raised for health and wellness.

“Those people don’t live here. So whatever damage they do, they leave at the end of the shift and go home. We live here and if there’s anything that we can do to prevent that kind of thing reoccurring. We’re going to do so,” Mikell says.

The site was donated to Charleston County Parks in 2015 by Charleston residents Michael and Jenny Messner of the Speedwell Foundation. The organization did not respond to a request for comment.

“The owner of that property is the Charleston County Parks and Recreation. Their purpose for being is to create parks, preserve and protect greenspaces,” Richter says. “We are not looking for the high bidder here, we are looking for the perfect partner to clean this place and make it a place of pride.”

The discussion will now go before city council starting on April 11 for its first reading. The next opportunity for public input will be on April 18.

For more information on the project, click here.

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