Fripp Island Property Owners Association Takes Legal Action Against Former County Administrator for Unpaid Dues

Fripp Island Property Owner Association Sues Former County Administrator Eric Greenway

Fripp Island, a picturesque barrier island located in the heart of the southern Lowcountry, is currently entangled in a legal battle involving its former county administrator, Eric Greenway. It seems that the property owners association (POA), responsible for the maintenance and management of this exclusive 3,000-acre gated community, has taken legal action due to unpaid dues and administrative payments. In fact, the lawsuit, which was filed in state court, claims that Greenway owes a total of $2,615.59 for various charges stretching all the way from January to November of this year.

The Background Story

To paint a picture of who Eric Greenway is, he served as the Beaufort County Administrator from May 2021 until his termination in July 2023. His time in office came to an end amidst accusations of misconduct, leading the County Council to initiate an investigation into spending habits and purchasing card activities while he was at the helm. Following his dismissal, Greenway transitioned to a new career as a real estate agent, as reflected on his LinkedIn profile.

Fast forward to now: the Fripp Island POA is pursuing foreclosure on Greenway’s property, which he acquired in March 2023. Records show he took out a 30-year mortgage worth $328,500 for a cozy two-bedroom, two-bathroom home nestled in this beautiful sanctuary that merges scenic coastal views with private beach access.

A Gated Community with Rules

Just to give you an idea of Fripp Island, it’s not just any ordinary island. It’s a place that demands belonging. Only residents, vacation renters, and employees can access its charm, safeguarded by guards at the entrance gatehouse. According to the Fripp Island POA website, the community is not only a designated wildlife sanctuary but also a location filled with stunning landscapes and a plethora of real estate options, resort services, and recreational amenities.

Every property owner on the island is required to be a member of the POA. The association’s general manager, Cary Kelley, explained that typically, 98 percent of homeowners pay their annual assessments on time. However, when dues aren’t paid by the start of the year—January 1, to be exact—they begin to accrue interest. If payment isn’t made by the end of January, late fees pile on, and after a period of 90 days, accounts are usually handed over to an attorney for further collection measures, including placing liens on properties and subsequent court actions.

The Legal Proceedings

In Greenway’s case, a lien was placed on his property back on July 11. Unfortunately for him, the expenses didn’t stop there. After seeing the dues become more daunting, the POA’s attorney, who also serves as a state representative for Beaufort and Jasper counties, sought a judgment against him on November 26. Now, the POA is not just after unpaid fees but is aiming for a court-ordered foreclosure that includes accrued attorneys’ fees and additional collection costs.

Greenway has yet to comment on the matter, but it sure raises eyebrows about how the former administrator managed his finances following a controversial tenure. Following his firing and the initiation of a comprehensive audit, a report found a “culture of laxity” in county spending policies under Greenway’s term, igniting frustrations from various officials who felt the details should be disclosed to the public. While the audit was discussed within County Council, the complete report still hasn’t seen the light of day.

Conclusion

As the drama unfolds on Fripp Island, it is unclear how this will all play out for Eric Greenway and the POA. With each passing day, the situation is becoming more complex, reminding us that even the most serene locales can have their fair share of troubles and controversies. So, stay tuned! This legal tussle is just beginning, and it’s one to watch.