The City of Beaufort has violated an historic agreement dating back to June 30, 1976. The agreement, signed between the City of Beaufort and three governmental agencies—South Carolina Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism, the Economic Development Administration (EDA) part of the US Department of Commerce, and the Bureau of Outdoor Recreation part of the US Department of the Interior—was established to ensure that the city’s Waterfront Park would remain a public space for outdoor recreation.
The agreement required compliance with the Public Works and Economic Development Act of 1965 (PWED Act) and the Land and Water Conservation Fund Act of 1965 (LWCF Act). These laws stipulate that properties funded under these acts must remain dedicated to public outdoor recreation unless prior written approval is obtained from federal authorities.
Key Provisions of the Agreement:
1. The waterfront park and marina area must be used solely for public outdoor recreation.
2. Any change in use or lease of the property requires prior written consent from the Secretary of the Interior and the Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development.
However, the City of Beaufort has entered into at least two lease agreements that violate these stipulations. These agreements include leases with American Cruise Lines and SHM Beaufort LLC (Safe Harbor Marine), which have converted portions of the waterfront park into private use, restricting public access.
More to come on the City of Beaufort’s violation of the 1976 agreement and current lease agreements.
What money does the city receive from these leases and boat docking? Do we pay Safe Harbor for maintaining this area?
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