In June 2019, the City of Beaufort signed a lease with SHM Beaufort, LLC, a subsidiary of the nationwide for-profit marina operator Safe Harbor Marinas. This lease was signed with minimal public input and substantial concerns over transparency and authority.
The timeline of the negotiations that led to the City of Beaufort’s agreement with Safe Harbor:
February 12, 2019: The City recommends a lease with Safe Harbor in an official memo.
February 26, 2019: During the City Council Work and Regular Session, the council authorized then City Manager Bill Prokop to negotiate the lease.
April 9, 2019: The council discussed the lease in executive session. Then Mayor Keyserling mentioned minor issues needing attorney resolution, but anticipated these would be settled by the next council meeting. The matter was tabled for further discussion.
April 23, 2019: The council tabled the lease matter again.
May 7, 2019: During the City Council session, Lolita Huckaby Watson inquired when the public would see the contract and expressed curiosity about the financial aspects. City Manager Bill Prokop responded that it would be available as soon as it was signed and emphasized that the marina’s financial burden would be lifted from the city. The council then unanimously authorized Prokop to sign the lease.
June 25, 2019: The lease was signed without any public input or hearing, essentially concluding in secrecy.
A lack of public engagement and transparency in the negotiation and contract process leaves Beaufort citizens surprised and out of the loop when Safe Harbor signs and gates begin to cover the downtown marina. Questions still remain about the terms of the contract and the financial arrangement with Safe Harbor.
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