Beaufort County Land Deal Faces Scrutiny Amid Conflict of Interest Allegations
Beaufort is currently abuzz with discussions surrounding a controversial land sale involving the county attorney, Brittany Ward. Not too long ago, the county agreed to purchase a property located at 20 Barrel Landing Road, and it seems that the deal is now the focus of public concern.
The Sale Details
In February 2024, the county bought this 1.8-acre slice of land for approximately $434,000 from Michael and Julienne Orr, who are none other than Brittany Ward’s parents. This itself isn’t inherently problematic, but what has raised eyebrows is the profit of $144,000 they made on the deal. The Orrs acquired the land for $290,000 in late 2021 and decided to sell it to the county a few years later through the Rural and Critical Lands Preservation Program.
Allegations of Impropriety
Following the sale, questions arose regarding whether Ward properly disclosed her familial ties to the sellers before the County Council approved the purchase. Brittany Ward was granted a limited power of attorney to handle the sale on behalf of her parents. She recently tendered her resignation, set to take effect on December 2, 2024, and has not publicly addressed the allegations surrounding her involvement in the transaction.
County’s Response
The county has stated that it is taking the accusations seriously. A spokesperson mentioned that they have initiated an independent legal review of the case and have informed law enforcement of the citizen complaints. “We take all allegations of impropriety very seriously,” the statement read, assuring Beaufort residents that the matter would be thoroughly investigated.
The Role of the Rural and Critical Lands Program
The county has a long-standing commitment to land preservation, a testament to the Rural and Critical Lands Preservation Program. Since its inception in 2000, the program has allowed for the conservation of significant parcels of land across Beaufort County. This program was created to help protect key areas from development and enhance public access to nature.
This particular acquisition might close a gap in an area that has historically been surrounded by county-owned land, aiming to create a park-like environment for public enjoyment. During a previous meeting to discuss county-owned property, Ward promoted the idea of identifying surplus land, setting the stage for potential future deals.
A Look Back
Interestingly, the history of this specific property reveals that the Orrs purchased it from the Molande Group LTD, an Ohio-based corporation, for a significant loss after holding it for over 15 years. The previous owners purchased the land for $340,000 in 2006, making the transaction a puzzling move when viewed through the lens of investment strategy.
What’s Next?
Now, as the investigation unfolds, various county officials are remaining tight-lipped about their involvement and perspectives on the dealings surrounding the sale. Observers are closely watching how the county manages not just this specific case, but also its public image in light of these allegations.
With Brittany Ward’s departure from her role as county attorney looming, residents are left wondering what implications this scrutiny may have not only for the individuals involved but for the processes and policies guiding future property transactions.
Community Impact
Residents in Beaufort might feel a mix of concern and curiosity as these events develop. Many locals value the progress made through land conservation efforts, but allegations like these can shake public trust in the system. It’s an important reminder of the need for transparency, especially in public sectors where taxpayer dollars are involved.
Stay tuned as we continue to follow this story. The community will gain insights into not just the specifics of this questionable transaction but also the broader implications for governance in Beaufort County.
Reach out if you have thoughts or questions about this unfolding situation.
