JAMES ISLAND, S.C. (WCSC) – A proposed storage facility and at least 10 new homes could be built on Dills Bluff Road on James Island if a developer's sale moves forward.
But some neighbors say they're still not happy with the proposal after months of watching plans change.
Plans have changed for 6.5 acres on Dill's Bluff Road on James Island. Previous plans included at least 20 homes and about 20,000 square feet of commercial space. After the town denied the plan in October, the new proposal includes a new storage facility with at least 10 new homes.
“A storage facility is incredibly inappropriate for this area,” said James Island resident Casey Buchanan. “Yes, part of the parcel is zoned commercial because it's right next to the shopping center here. But that zoning was done 20 years ago before we knew about the flooding. I did.”
Mr Buchanan added that this would have an impact on property values.
“It would be really incredibly foolish to do anything that would reduce our storm resilience as an island,” Buchanan said. “If that were to happen to me, if I were to buy a house now, I would be very cautious if I were buying in this area, especially if this project is going to go ahead.”
John Peters, who lives in White House Plantation, just behind the property, said he has heard from longtime residents that the flooding is worse during storms than during Hurricane Hugo.
“We're already rethinking Folly Road, so it's not an issue of having to rethink Dill's Bluff Road,” Peters said.
Peters has started numerous petitions, with the current online petition having over 960 signatures opposing the new proposal. He says this green space should be partially preserved and put to better use.
“Let's create a space that allows for food trucks or food truck radios or something with a market area like downtown,” Peters said.
They said the developer, Taylor Consulting Group, has not held any meetings with the public since the original plan was first denied.
The proposed plan would retain many magnificent trees, but Buchanan said that alone would not be enough.
“They are essential for managing stormwater on urban ocean islands, and that is James Island,” Buchanan said. “There are very few sponge forests like this left.”
The Town of James Island says this is currently a construction rights property. That means Taylor Consulting Group has the right to build what it wants at the appropriate density without any further votes. The sale from the James Island Public Service District to a developer is still under contract.
“They might say they care about James Island,” Peters said. “Caring for James Island means protecting James Island at this time.”
Taylor Consulting Group did not respond to requests for comment.
Residents say the next James Island Public Service District meeting will be held at 7 p.m. on Feb. 26 at the James Island Fire Station No. 1 to give public input before the sale is finalized on March 1. It is said to be one of the last chances.
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