Concerns Emerge Over Controversial Real Estate Deal in Beaufort County

Concerns Emerge Over Real Estate Deal in Beaufort

BEAUFORT – A cloud of controversy is forming over a recent real estate transaction involving Beaufort County Attorney Brittany Ward and her parents, who sold a piece of land to the county for a tidy profit. The property in question is a 1.8-acre parcel located at 20 Barrel Landing Road, and it has drawn scrutiny after allegations surfaced regarding whether Ward properly disclosed her familial ties to the sellers during the purchasing process.

Background on the Property Deal

According to records, Ward’s parents, Michael A. Orr and Julienne B. Orr, acquired the land in late 2021 for $290,000. Just over two years later, in February 2024, the county bought the same land for $434,000 through its Rural and Critical Lands Preservation Program, resulting in a profit of $144,000 for the Orrs. This significant markup has raised eyebrows among community members and officials alike.

The Role of Brittany Ward

Ward was granted limited power of attorney to handle the property transaction for her parents, which further complicates the matter. Allegations have emerged suggesting that her close connection to the sellers wasn’t disclosed when the county approved the property purchase. Ward’s last day in her position is scheduled for December 2 of this year, following her resignation, but she has yet to publicly address these inquiries.

The County’s Response

In light of growing public concern, Beaufort County officials issued a statement acknowledging that they have received complaints suggesting potential impropriety regarding Ward’s actions. The county announced that it has informed law enforcement and started an independent legal review to explore these claims. They reassured residents that any findings would be handled with the utmost seriousness.

Historical Context of Land Conservation

The Rural and Critical Lands Preservation Program has been a prominent fixture in Beaufort since its introduction in 2000. This program allows voters to approve bond initiatives to fund land conservation, preserving significant plots across the county. Over the years, it has successfully protected more than 29,000 acres at a cost of around $141 million to taxpayers. This situation adds a layer of complexity, as transparency in such transactions is key to maintaining public trust, especially in conservation efforts.

Reactions from the Community

Community members are increasingly questioning the integrity of these dealings, especially considering the hefty profit involved and the relationships at play. Many believe that the alleged lack of disclosure could undermine trust in county leadership and hinder future deals meant to foster public interest.

The Way Forward

As this story unfolds, the public will be keeping a close eye on the investigation’s progress. The county’s commitment to an independent legal review is a positive step towards clarity. Transparency and accountability remain crucial in resolving this matter. Residents will be eager to see how county officials handle the situation, especially with regards to ensuring fair practice within local government processes.

This case acts as a reminder of how vital it is for public officials to maintain clear boundaries between personal interests and their responsibilities to the community. As we look ahead, the implications of this situation may influence future policies on land transactions in Beaufort County.

Conclusion

With the stakes high and transparency at the forefront, the people of Beaufort are left watching, waiting, and questioning what comes next in this unfolding drama. Whether it leads to change or a return to business as usual, one thing is for sure—this situation has sparked lively discussions around the dinner tables and within community meetings across the county. The public’s interest in land conservation and government ethics is likely to remain a hot topic in the months ahead.

Author: HERE Hilton Head