Fripp Island Residents Take Legal Action Against Former County Administrator
Fripp Island, SC – In a surprising twist that has sent ripples through this exclusive barrier island community, former Beaufort County Administrator Eric Greenway is facing a lawsuit from the Fripp Island Property Owners Association (POA) over unpaid dues. It seems that Greenway, who served as county administrator until last July, owes a hefty $2,615.59 in administrative payments, late fees, and annual assessments for the period between January and November.
The Lawsuit Details
The legal complaints weren’t just the ordinary kind. They included serious allegations of non-compliance, leading to the POA’s desire to initiate a foreclosure on Greenway’s property. The court records indicate that Greenway has failed to settle his annual dues, which were due on January 1, 2024. According to Cary Kelley, the POA’s General Manager, if a member doesn’t pay their dues by the end of January, interest begins to accrue. After ninety days of non-payment, the POA typically escalates the situation by involving attorneys who may eventually place liens on the property or even seek a court judgment.
In Greenway’s case, after accruing various fees due to his neglect, the POA’s lawyer, state Representative Weston Newton, took action on November 26 to pursue payment. At this point, a lien has already been placed on Greenway’s property since July 11. Kelley informed that approximately 98 percent of property owners manage to pay their assessments on time, making Greenway’s case all the more concerning.
The Background Story
Greenway, who has a background in real estate as well, took out a 30-year mortgage in March 2023 for a cozy two-bedroom home on Fripp Island. This gorgeous island, recognized for its scenic beaches and wildlife, is home to about 3,000 acres of gated residential community. Access is tightly controlled, with guards stationed at the entrance to ensure privacy for residents and their guests. However, it appears that even living in such a paradise hasn’t protected Greenway from the burdens of unpaid dues.
The POA, which is mandatory for all property owners, emphasizes a community ethos wrapped in natural beauty and recreational facilities. But this lawsuit adds a troubling layer to the otherwise idyllic lifestyle inhabitants have come to know on the island.
The Fallout from His County Role
Greenway’s stint as county administrator has not been without its controversies. After his dismissal last year, an investigation was launched around various allegations of misconduct, which led to an audit revealing a “culture of laxity” within the county’s management that allegedly allowed significant spending policy violations. With whispers of improper spending still echoing in the public domain, it remains to be seen how much this legal battle could further tarnish his reputation.
Interestingly enough, the implications of this lawsuit far exceed mere financial ramifications for Greenway. Not only is he battling a potential foreclosure, but he is also enduring the shadow of ongoing local scrutiny dating back to his contentious departure from the county administrator position. Greenway’s professional circumstances seem to shift dramatically, transitioning from a government official to a real estate agent, a curious shift considering the weight of the accusations against him.
What’s Next for Greenway?
As it stands, the Fripp Island community watches closely as this legal drama unfolds. Greenway has declined to comment on the lawsuit, leaving many questions in the air. Will he be able to settle his dues and retain ownership of his home, or will the POA see its foreclosure request become a reality? Only time will tell.
This ongoing saga is a reminder that even the lushest of locales are not immune to the challenges of financial obligations and community governance.
