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As we mentioned before the holidays, the Pine Island developer’s claims that a large residential subdivision will be built if the golf resort plan is not given an exception from the Cultural Protection Overlay (CPO) rules is neither a likely option, nor the only other option for the property. In fact, this fall, the developer’s conceptual plan for 144 homes was met with significant concerns by Beaufort County staff because of likely adverse impacts to historic and archeological resources on the property. And, there are significant concerns about tree removal, stormwater management, and septic tank permitting. Again, any large residential development would require extensive local, state, and federal permit approvals, which take years and often face lengthy legal challenges. To put it simply, there are real, substantial, and costly hurdles that would need to be overcome before any residential plan is approved. This is not a choice between a residential community or a golf course on Pine Island; this is a choice to follow the rules for all or change them for one. Developers frequently deploy a “lesser of two evils” strategy to get what they really want, which in this case has always been a luxury golf resort. We will not be fooled by this tactic.
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 Photo Credit: Miles Sanders
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The developer and investors knowingly and willingly bought the Pine Island property to build something that is expressly prohibited by local law. Beaufort County correctly followed their rules and comprehensive plan by denying plans for three 6-hole golf courses and the removal of the Pine Island property from the CPO boundaries. The developer and investors are now suing Beaufort County challenging those denial decisions in court, which further demonstrates the fact that the desired plan to build a golf resort has never changed. There are many alternative uses for the property that would respect and align with the community-led CPO zoning rules. In addition, land protection with public access is a real option for this historically and culturally significant property. There is the potential for local, state, and federal money for a community conservation outcome; all that is needed is a willing seller. |
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Your Input Is Needed In other St. Helena news, consultants hired by Beaufort County are collecting public feedback on the potential for a performing arts and cultural center on St. Helena Island. Fill out the survey on the Beaufort County website. This is an important opportunity for the community to weigh in and share what resources and opportunities are needed on the island. The deadline to participate is Monday, January 15th. |
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As the community continues to make important decisions about the way the land is used on St. Helena, we all must remain vigilant and strong in our convictions that these decisions be community-led. Thank you for your continued support. |