Beaufort in Turmoil: Legal Battle Erupts Over Waterfront Park
Oh, Beaufort! This charming South Carolina city, known for its stunning waterfront views and rich history, is now facing a legal storm that has locals buzzing. Just three months after the fierce Tropical Storm Helene wreaked havoc on the Beaufort marina, a new storm in the form of a lawsuit is brewing. It’s all centered around the city’s beloved Waterfront Park, a popular public amenity that many citizens hold dear.
Lawsuit Filed by Protect Beaufort Foundation
On Tuesday, the Protect Beaufort Foundation Inc. took a bold step by filing a lawsuit against the city in the Court of Common Pleas in the 14th Judicial Circuit. Founded just four months ago, this not-for-profit brave organization has been contemplating legal action ever since it was established by local property owner and developer Graham Trask.
So, what’s the fuss about? Well, the foundation is grappling with issues surrounding the privatization and commercialization of the city’s public properties. They argue that by allowing Safe Harbor Marinas to manage the public marina, the city has effectively kicked open the door to privatizing Waterfront Park, diminishing public access in the process. Plus, they are raising eyebrows over the city allowing American Cruise Lines to dock at the seawall—concerns which are set to be addressed in court.
City Manager Responds
The city manager, Scott Marshall, dismissed the lawsuit as a mere “nuisance lawsuit.” He insists that the marina remains a public asset and reassured residents that any issues are being tackled by the city. He said, “We have been public about every bit of it.” Marshall is adamant that the city is already on top of concerns raised about the marina’s management.
Everything You Need to Know About the Park
The Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park, which opened its doors back in 1979, takes pride in being a beautiful 5-acre park that overlooks the stunning Beaufort River. The park is named after its former mayor named Henry C. Chambers who was instrumental in its development. But things took a turn last August when Safe Harbor announced a $14 million dock expansion that escalated into a hefty $27 million project. This was met with a wave of dissatisfaction from residents worried that the expansion would spoil the area’s picturesque views.
The Lease Controversy
The controversy doesn’t stop there! Residents began questioning the city’s lease with Safe Harbor and whether the deal was truly beneficial for the city. To make matters even muddier, Marshall recently acknowledged what many were fearing—that the city council had approved the lease in 2019 improperly, missing vital public input and voting requirements.
As part of the lawsuit’s claims, Protect Beaufort says that the lease is null due to these errors. They are asking for it to be declared unlawful, which could set a domino effect in motion for how the marina is managed going forward. Yikes!
Concerns About the Park’s Structural Integrity
Adding to the drama, an inspection report from April revealed serious issues with the park’s underwater concrete supports. The findings urged the city to stop allowing the docking of American Cruise Line ships at the seawall immediately. And it’s not just a minor detail; in 2023, a 220-foot-long cruise vessel caused damage to the seawall! Talk about a rocky situation!
The Foundation’s Goals
Protect Beaufort, who has rallied $100,000 in pledges and more contributions, is aiming for responsible development, environmental preservation, and protection of Beaufort’s historic charm. Their founders, including several prominent local leaders, are deeply invested in the outcome of this legal battle. Half the fun, however, is in figuring out which side will come out on top!
What Happens Next?
The community is on the edge of its seat as appointments for a committee to examine the marina lease issues are expected in March. Marshall maintains that the city is already addressing the problems at hand, while he labels the lawsuit a distraction. Meanwhile, will the charm of Beaufort’s waterfront prevail amid these squabbles? Only time will tell!
