News Brief: Pine Island Negotiations Rejected By Beaufort County Council
After more than five hours of public testimony and more than 60 speakers taking both sides of the controversial Pine Island proposal, Beaufort County Council voted down a motion to continue negotiations with the developers.
Beaufort County, SC — After more than five hours of public testimony and more than 60 speakers taking both sides of the controversial Pine Island proposal, Beaufort County Council voted down a motion to continue negotiations with the developers.
The late-night meeting stretched into the early morning hours. The public hearing officially closed at 1:18 a.m., followed by a roll call vote at 1:35 a.m. The motion failed.
At issue is Pine Island, a privately owned property on St. Helena Island. The developers have requested removal from the Cultural Protection Overlay (CPO) — a zoning designation created 25 years ago to protect the island’s rural character and Gullah/Geechee heritage. The CPO prohibits three things: resorts, gated communities, and golf courses.
Developers have submitted a proposed development agreement, offering what they describe as millions of dollars in investments and benefits to Gullah families in exchange for an exemption from the CPO. Supporters of the deal argue it would bring jobs and resources to the community, while critics say it threatens the cultural and environmental integrity of the island.
Voices on Both Sides
In support of Pine Island development included a group of shrimpers led by Sea Eagle Market and people of Gullah descent who said the CPO is too restrictive and they want the ability to develop their own land.
Opposed to Pine Island exemption: Gay Fish Company, former Beaufort mayor Stephen Murray, the Penn Center, the Coastal Conservation League, and many local residents who argue the CPO is essential to preserving St. Helena’s culture and environment.
What’s Next
Monday night’s vote rejected continued negotiations. After the decision the developers attorney’s requested that their zoning map amendment be withdrawn. This was accepted and the meeting adjourned at 1:44 am.
The debate over Pine Island has become a flashpoint for a larger question: what it means to “protect St. Helena” versus what it means to “support St. Helena.”
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