Community Stands Strong on Pine Island and St. Helena Island
Beaufort County, S.C. has recently faced a significant challenge regarding the preservation of its beloved Pine Island and St. Helena Island. For many years, these areas have been protected from large-scale developments such as gated communities, resorts, and golf courses, thanks to local regulations aiming to safeguard the unique cultural heritage of the Gullah Geechee people. But with a new lawsuit filed by a developer, the community finds itself at a critical juncture.
Decades of Protection in Jeopardy
The Gullah Geechee region, which includes both Pine Island and St. Helena Island, has been safeguarded since the 1990s under a cultural protection overlay zone. This means that any large developments that could disrupt the historical integrity and community spirit of the area have been off-limits—until now. In 2022, Pine Island Property Holdings LLC proposed a golf course development on Pine Island, prompting outcry from locals who cherish their way of life and want to preserve their ancestral land.
Marie Gibbs, a proud fourth-generation resident of St. Helena Island, has been a vocal advocate for protecting the Gullah Geechee culture. “I’m so proud to be a part of this island culture,” she said. “We do everything in our power to protect it. Our home, our legacy.” Her sentiments echo the love and pride many locals share for their community and heritage.
A Community United
This proposal ignited a passionate response from the community, which rallied together against the golf course idea. The Beaufort County Planning Commission, along with the County Council, took a firm stand against any alterations to the cultural overlay zone during their January 2023 meetings. They voted overwhelmingly, with an 8-3 majority, to uphold the existing rules that ban developments such as golf courses and gated communities, seemingly putting the brakes on the proposal.
But the developer was not ready to back down. Just a few months later, in June 2023, Pine Island Property Holdings LLC filed a lawsuit against the county government. The lawsuit claimed that some county leaders had previously shown support for their project and suggested potential modifications to the cultural overlay zone that could open doors for development.
Public Opinion Matters
Community Legacy on the Line
For families like Gibbs’ who have deep-rooted connections to the land, the outcome of this legal situation is critical. Gibbs herself pointed out how long the fight for preservation has been. “The fight was so long I was pregnant when it started. Now my baby’s walking, but it’s a journey worthwhile,” she expressed, highlighting the personal stake many residents have in keeping their heritage intact.
Looking Ahead
As the lawsuit remains active, the community is taking note of their leaders’ steadfastness. The decision to uphold the rules was not just a protective measure; it reaffirmed a commitment to the local culture and the collective voice of its residents. White concluded on a hopeful note, mentioning, “Beaufort County stood strong and stood behind the community and stood behind its own rules.”
While the future remains uncertain with the developer’s lawsuit still pending, the strong stance taken by the county leaders is a reassuring sign that the cherished culture and history of Pine Island and St. Helena Island will continue to thrive amidst challenges.
