Pine Island and St. Helena Island: A Community Stands Together Against Development
In the heart of Pine Island and neighboring St. Helena Island in Beaufort County, South Carolina, the local community is rallying to protect their cherished lands and culture from potential development threats. For decades, these areas have been safeguarded from gated communities, golf courses, and resorts, thanks to strict regulations stemming from the cultural significance of the Gullah Geechee heritage.
A Proud Heritage Under Threat
This cultural protection overlay zone, established in the 1990s, was created to celebrate and preserve the unique Gullah Geechee culture, which is deeply rooted in the history of the area. St. Helena Island, in particular, holds the highest concentration of Gullah Geechee landowners. Recent events, however, have raised concerns among residents, as a developer proposed constructing a golf course on Pine Island, hoping to overturn these protective regulations.
Community Voices Unite
Marie Gibbs, a proud fourth-generation resident of St. Helena, is a passionate advocate for her community and its rich heritage. “I’m so proud to be a part of this island culture, this island of South Carolina, and we do everything in our power to protect it. Our home, our legacy,” Gibbs states, adding that she stands firmly with the Gullah Geechee nation and its efforts to preserve their way of life.
County Leaders Take a Stand
In a recent decision, Beaufort County’s Planning Commission and County Council cast a definitive vote against altering the cultural protection overlay zone. This January 2023 vote, which passed with an 8-3 margin, effectively dismissed the golf course proposal and upheld the integrity of the existing rules. However, the developer, Pine Island Property Holdings LLC, wasn’t ready to back down. Just months later, in June 2023, they filed a lawsuit challenging the county’s zoning decisions, citing that some county leaders had previously supported their project.
Community Support and Collective Action
The community’s determination has not gone unnoticed. Over 5,000 signatures were gathered in a petition opposing any changes that would allow such developments. Jessie White, the Director of the Coastal Conservation League South Coast Office, emphasized the importance of the county council’s decision. “Beaufort County has gone through a long and arduous public process, with hundreds of community members participating for many hours. The council’s decision to stick to their rules is a reflection of the community’s will,” she explains.
Legal Considerations and Future Implications
White also mentions that the legal standing taken by the county appears solid, as courts typically respect the decisions made by local governing bodies. “Courts generally don’t like to second guess the decision of local decision-making bodies,” she says, underscoring that the council’s backing of community rules is crucial in setting a precedent.
A Fight Worthwhile
For residents like Gibbs, the fight to maintain their land’s integrity feels personal and monumental. “I tell people the fight was so long I was pregnant when it started. Now my baby’s walking, but it’s a journey worthwhile.” Her sentiments resonate with many living in St. Helena who have a deep connection to their land and cultural roots.
What Lies Ahead
While the developer’s lawsuit remains active, the community is hopeful and appreciative that their leaders are listening to their cries for preservation. It’s a stirring reminder of the strength and spirit of local voices united for a common cause—a cause deeply tied to land, history, and identity.
As this story unfolds, residents of Pine Island and St. Helena Island continue to stand firm in their commitment to protecting their homes and the legacy of the Gullah Geechee culture, reminding everyone that sometimes, it’s the local voices that hold the most power.
