October 9, 2025

Controversial Annexation Proposal in Beaufort Sparks Concern

Beaufort, October 9, 2025

News Summary

The Ridgeland Town Council is poised to vote on a proposal to annex 1,500 acres for new residential and commercial developments. This plan has incited worry among citizens and environmentalists about potential cultural and ecological impacts. Concurrently, discussions about Pine Island’s development raise issues around the preservation of Gullah heritage. As safety concerns over local beaches arise due to recent shark bites, community members advocate for sustainable development to safeguard their natural resources and livelihoods.

Beaufort

The Ridgeland Town Council is set to vote on a controversial proposal on September 18 to annex 1,500 acres along Euhaw Creek, which would pave the way for 2,000 new homes and 250,000 square feet of commercial space. The proposal has raised alarm among community members and environmental advocates who argue it could lead to significant socio-cultural and ecological impacts.

In a related discussion, the Beaufort County Council is considering the development of Pine Island off St. Helena Island. This plan appears to disregard existing community preservation efforts aimed at protecting local heritage and environmental assets. Additionally, the proposed gated community on St. Helena Island may infringe upon cultural preservation overlays established to protect Gullah land and traditions.

Council member York Glover has expressed concerns regarding the potential loss of traditional land and the detrimental effects such developments could have on local culture. Critics of the proposed projects argue that these developments could lead to an increase in environmental degradation and congestion, reminiscent of urban areas like Atlanta.

A feasibility study revealed that Ridgeland might not be capable of managing the public safety services required if the annexation proceeds, and that the community is unlikely to gain substantial fiscal benefits from the anticipated growth. Many opponents are worried about how these developments might negatively affect natural resources and local livelihoods, urging a focus on sustainable development practices.

Amidst these discussions, the community has also been addressing the safety of local beaches, particularly in light of two confirmed shark bites that occurred in June 2025. Despite this, experts note that shark attacks are rare, with very few incidents recorded historically in the Beaufort area. Out of more than 375 shark species, approximately 30 have been known to attack humans.

Community members looking to engage in beach activities are reminded that such pursuits put them in the sharks’ environment, potentially increasing the chance of encounters. To enhance safety, a list of shark safety tips has been distributed, which includes advice to swim in groups, avoid murky or bait-rich waters, and remain calm if a shark is observed.

Local Photography Celebrates Lowcountry Life

As the community grapples with these significant topics, local photographers are capturing the unique beauty of life in the Lowcountry. Bentley Barton recently took a stunning photo of Battery Creek from his backyard on South Hermitage Road. Another local photographer, Ali Muller, submitted a captivating image featuring live oaks and tidal creeks, praising their complementary beauty.

Allan Lassiter, residing on Lady’s Island, filmed a dramatic sunset cloud formation, while Ron Callari observed an intricate spider on his porch in Habersham. Yvonne Visser captured a picturesque scene at Walling Grove Plantation with the Coosaw River in the backdrop, and Jenn Clementoni photographed a vibrant Painted Bunting singing atop a sunflower on St. Helena Island.

Those interested in sharing their Lowcountry Life photos are encouraged to submit high-resolution images, ensuring they either took the photo or have obtained permission to publish. Each submission should include descriptions and/or names of individuals featured, along with the photographer’s name, which can be emailed to the appropriate contact.

Conclusion

As the local council considers controversial development plans that could reshape the community, residents remain vigilant, advocating for cultural and environmental preservation. Concurrently, local photographers continue to document and celebrate the scenic beauty that defines the Lowcountry.

FAQs

What is the Ridgeland Town Council voting on?

The Ridgeland Town Council is pondering a proposal to annex 1,500 acres along Euhaw Creek for 2,000 new homes and 250,000 square feet of commercial space, with a vote scheduled for Sept. 18.

What concerns were raised regarding the developments?

Critics argue that the developments could lead to environmental degradation and increased congestion, similar to urban areas like Atlanta.

What is the community’s stance on shark safety?

Despite fears, shark attacks are considered rare, with very few incidences recorded in the Beaufort area historically.

How can individuals submit local photography to The Island News?

To submit Lowcountry Life photos to The Island News, the photographer must either take the picture or have permission to publish it. High-resolution photos should include descriptions and/or names of people, as well as the photographer’s name, and can be emailed to theislandnews@gmail.com.

Feature	Description
Town Council Vote	Proposal to annex 1,500 acres for residential and commercial development.
Cultural Concerns	Potential violation of cultural preservation for Gullah land.
Environmental Impact	Critics warn of possible degradation and congestion.
Shark Safety	Two shark bites confirmed in June 2025, though attacks are historically rare.
Photography Submissions	Submissions should include photographer’s name and image descriptions.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Updated Rip Current Warning for Coastal Jasper and Beaufort County
Beaufort County Struggles with Tax Debts from Sanctioned Bankers
NWS Issues Rip Current Warning for Coastal South Carolina
Beaufort County Issues Rip Current Warning Ahead of Tropical Storm
New Book Highlights South Carolina Lowcountry Adventures
Ridgeland Town Council Denies Major Annexation Proposal
Ridgeland Town Council Rejects Tickton Hall Development Plans
Beaufort County Council Rejects Pine Island Development Proposal
Ridgeland Town Council Rejects Tickton Hall Annexation Request
Ridgeland Town Council Considers Major Tickton Hall Development

Additional Resources

Author: STAFF HERE BEAUFORT

The HERE Beaufort Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Beaufort community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background: Local Roots in Beaufort : Our team includes lifelong Beaufort residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent sale of the historic Crofts Block Building, Beaufort’s equestrian heritage, and growth in local tech and education sectors (e.g., BeaufortTechnical College programs). Collective Experience: With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Beaufort Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality: Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.

STAFF HERE BEAUFORT

The HERE Beaufort Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Beaufort community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background: Local Roots in Beaufort : Our team includes lifelong Beaufort residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent sale of the historic Crofts Block Building, Beaufort’s equestrian heritage, and growth in local tech and education sectors (e.g., BeaufortTechnical College programs). Collective Experience: With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Beaufort Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality: Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.

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