South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster yesterday expressed opposition to building a luxury “eco-resort” on undeveloped Bay Point Island. In a letter to Beaufort County’s Zoning Board of Appeals, Governor McMaster urged rejection “of this latest attempt to develop this beautiful barrier island.” He added, “The project’s tremendous impact on wildlife and surrounding communities cannot be squared with principles of fiscal responsibility and our shared mission of protecting the shared treasures of our state for future generations.”
In response to the Governor’s letter, Laura Cantral, Executive Director of the Coastal Conservation League, issued the following statement:
“The Coastal Conservation League has consistently and vigorously opposed the proposed development on Bay Point Island, both because of the damage it would do to one of South Carolina’s pristine natural treasures and because letting a luxury hotel qualify as an “eco-tourism special use” would open the floodgates to more destructive coastal development. We are grateful that Governor McMaster has lent his voice to help protect an island that is so important to Beaufort County’s environment and wildlife, the area’s Gullah/Geechee community, and the people of South Carolina.”