Family Photographer in Isle of Palms, SC

ISLE OF PALMS, S.C. (WCBD) – Wild Dunes Resort on Thursday filed a lawsuit against the Isle of Palms (IOP) for enacting ordinances which limit the resort’s development.

Five ordinances were passed in November which proponents said protected the city’s greenspaces. The ordinances amend stipulations of a Planned Residential Development (PRD) zoning district contract created in 1975 when the development of the resort began. It was previously amended in 2016 to reduce the number of units permitted.

The most recent changes were brought about in response to proposed plans by Wild Dunes to build additional condos/hotels where current golf courses and recreation spaces exist.

In a series of public meetings, residents expressed concern about the overpopulation that the additional development could bring as well as the damage it could cause to the environment.

Despite initially expressing concern about how long the process could take, councilmembers acted quickly to pass the amendments, which Wild Dunes claims violated the city’s own protocol.

“The City failed to comply with the requisite procedure. As detailed above, the Planning Commission reviewed and recommended the Subject Ordinances on or around November 9, 2022, which was after the public hearings on the Subject Ordinances had already been held on October 18 and November 1, 2022. Thus, the City violated the procedural requirements of Section 5-4-39 of the City’s Code for amending PDD zoning districts.”

Likewise, Wild Dunes claims the city failed to meaningfully engage with stakeholders — despite a representative publicly appealing to council members at a November 15 meeting — and left them no option but to take legal action.

The lawsuit also argues that the city’s reasoning for passing the ordinances is misguided, stating that Wild Dunes has brought “measured and positive growth to the City for decades,” and would continue to do so with any new development.

It cites the many rehabilitation and renovation projects undertaken by Wild Dunes over the years — sometimes in partnership with the city — to improve the shoreline, golf courses, and other recreation facilities.

Regarding overpopulation, Wild Dunes noted that the existing PRD allowed for another 330 dwelling units and 53 inn units to be built, but Wild Dunes had no plans to build them all at once. Instead, developers said they would be “completed over time based upon real estate market conditions and other factors.” The lawsuit goes on to claim that individual rental properties bring far more traffic to the island, and that taking away property rights should not be used as a solution to regulate traffic.

Ultimately, the lawsuit claims that the ordinances prevent “economically viable and productive uses of [Wild Dunes’] property,” which effectively amounts to “the regulatory taking of [the] property.” Thus, according to the lawsuit, the city should compensate Wild Dunes for the land it took, or return the property rights to the owners.

News 2 has reached out to IOP for comment.

Editor’s note: This story is breaking and may be updated.

One of the most enjoyable aspects of traveling is getting to know the locals in the location that one is visiting. Of course, the more hospitable the locals are, the more fun it is likely that one will have while traveling there.

Personal experiences may tell people a lot about a place, even if there is no way to establish exactly which communities in the United States are the friendliest using scientific methods. It is highly recommended that vacationers pay one of these cities a visit if they are looking for a destination in which they are likely to witness goodwill among residents and visitors.

Savannah, Georgia

This past year, Savannah left quite an impact on tourists, to the point that it is now considered one of the nicest cities in the United States.

It is difficult to pinpoint just what it is that makes the people who live here so content. It might be the vibrant and unashamed Southern cuisine culture that the city has to offer. It might also be the abundance of independent bookstores and antique shops that are rife with hidden treasures.

It's also possible that the magnificent public parks and many things travelers would want to do in Savannah are what give folks an extra spring in their step.

Charleston, South Carolina

There are a lot of amazing things to do in Charleston. Charleston is a little coastal city that packs a lot of punch when it comes to Southern hospitality. Visitors frequently come to see historic monuments such as Fort Sumter and The Citadel, but they often choose to remain because of the city's vibrant food culture.

Additionally, Kiawah Island and Isle of Palms are located close to the city boundaries, making it possible to reach the beach in a very short amount of time by car.

The kind and welcoming locals, on the other hand, are the icing on the cake. They never fail to make those from out of town feel at home.

Alexandria, Virginia

Northern Virginia's Alexandria has long been a popular destination for young professionals and families looking for a more relaxed atmosphere than that of neighboring Washington, D.C., owing to its picturesque waterfront, historic brick-lined Old Town, and easy access to the city via metro.

Tourists are increasingly drawn to the area because of its vibrant retail, culinary, and artistic scenes. One of the best things about Alexandria is that it welcomes dogs with open arms. This may be the secret behind residents' happiness!

Honolulu, Hawaii

Because of its proximity to the United States mainland and its almost unlimited selection of indoor and outdoor activities, Honolulu has long been regarded as one of the most desirable locations for beach vacations in the United States.

Those planning to visit Honolulu keep coming back because of the abundance of exciting new hotels, restaurants, and galleries, many of which celebrate Indigenous traditions.

There is a growing feeling of community and identity in Honolulu, whether through hyper-local eateries or a museum exhibit highlighting Hawaiian history.

Santa Fe, New Mexico

For the larger part of the century that has just passed, Santa Fe has been an alluring destination for artistic types who are drawn to the city by its breathtaking natural landscapes and wide open spaces.

With more than 250 art galleries that are housed in the adobe houses that line its streets, it maintains the creative history that it was founded on, creating many amazing things to do in Santa Fe.

However, the welcoming locals aren't simply artistic; this city is home to a wide variety of individuals, and one can see this diversity mirrored in the city's food scene and other aspects of life here.

Tucson, Arizona

A lot of people would love to spend a weekend in Tucson. Tucson is still considered to be one of the most underestimated cities in the United States, despite the fact that it has a sizable population; nonetheless, our readers are beginning to take notice.

This artistic desert town has a little something for everyone, whether they’re seeking historic theaters, destination spas, or hot dogs that have won the James Beard Award. One can find all of these things and more here.

Another major selling point is the welcoming nature of the people, who will go out of their way to point tourists on the right path or make them feel at ease in their community.

Key West, Florida

Visitors may easily have a wonderful time in Key West, thanks to the welcoming locals and their one-of-a-kind brand of comedy. A number of creative types, such as Ernest Hemingway and others, have always found this town to be a welcome change of pace.

The city that sits at the southernmost tip of the United States is well-known for its welcoming atmosphere and acceptance of individuals of all backgrounds and perspectives. The fact that it's a great place to let free and forget about one's problems is often cited as the main reason to visit.

Telluride, Colorado

Telluride, Colorado, is not just one of the state's most stunning mountain towns, but also one of the state's warmest and most welcoming.

Located in the heart of a box canyon in the San Juan Mountains, this picturesque town features a background of jagged mountain peaks and streets dotted with stately Victorian-era houses that give the town a fairytale sense.

Some think the lack of billboards, neon signs, and even stoplights contributes to the pleasant nature of the residents. Maybe it's in the air or the water. No matter what brings tourists here, they won't find a more chill atmosphere or more stunning surroundings anywhere else.

Asheville, North Carolina

Those interested in music, art, craft beer, and more have made Asheville, North Carolina, a hotspot in recent years. One of the happiest areas in America, according to certain surveys. Everywhere people go in this lovely little city, the friendly residents will greet them with a grin.

A pleasant spot to take a stroll, the River Arts District is home to several museums, breweries, restaurants, and buskers. The area is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with several picturesque paths and raging rivers perfect for whitewater rafting.

Beaufort, South Carolina

Beaufort, South Carolina, is often cited as an example of "Southern hospitality" and as one of the nicest places in the United States.

Located only 90 miles from Charleston, this 300-year-old settlement is where locals may be seen relaxing on their front porches with sweet tea and enjoying neighborhood crab boils with friends and neighbors.

Besides being the second-oldest settlement in the state, it is also home to several historic landmarks, beautiful antebellum buildings, a charming shoreline, and delectable local food, most notably its thick and spicy gumbos.

Flatland Cavalry have their work cut out for them in the coming weeks and months. They’ve already been announced as one of the big beneficiaries of the massive stadium tour Luke Combs is throwing this year, opening the shows with Brent Cobb, Lainey Wilson, and Riley Green. They’re also taking the stage at the San Antonio Rodeo on February 25th as one of the finale acts.

But they won’t be sitting on their laurels in between. Announced on Monday (1-16), Flatland Cavalry will be playing shows throughout the Eastern United States through late July, including numerous dates in Canada. Coming along for the ride will also be a very cool set of openers that includes Cole Chaney, Colby Acuff, Brent Cobb, Pony Bradshaw, Emily Nenni, Grady Spencer and the Work, The Steel Woods, and Meghan Patrick.

And don’t worry all of you folks on the West Coast. This only covers half the year, so who knows what the later portions of 2023 have in store.

Along with their last studio album, the highly-rated Welcome to Countryland from 2021, Flatland Cavalry also recently released an acoustic EP called Songs To Keep You Warm to tide folks over through the Winter. The track “Mountain Song” from the EP was just featured on an episode of Yellowstone—the debut for Flatland Cavalry on the popular series.

Tickets for all headlining dates go on sale Friday (1/20) at 10 AM Central.

February 24—College Station, TX—Hurricane Harry’s*February 25—San Antonio, TX – AT&T Center – San Antonio RodeoMarch 23—Austin, TX—Venue TBAMarch 24—Houston, TX—713 Music HallMarch 25—Arlington, TX—AT&T Stadium+March 30—Lexington, KY—Manchester Music Hall†March 31—Grand Rapids, MI—GLC Live at 20 Monroe†April 1—Indianapolis, IN—Lucas Oil Stadium+April 7—Lubbock, TX—Cook’s GarageApril 8—Newcastle, TX—Fort BelknapApril 13—Asheville, NC—The Orange Peel‡April 14—Athens, GA—40 Watt Club‡April 15—Nashville, TN—Nissan Stadium+April 22—Detroit, MI—Ford Field+April 25—South Burlington, VT—Higher Ground‡April 26—New York, NY—Gramercy Theatre‡April 27—Alexandria, VA—The Birchmere‡April 28—Charlottesville, VA—The Jefferson Theater‡April 29—Pittsburgh, PA—Acrisure Stadium+May 4—Columbia, MO—Rose Park§May 5—Chicago, IL—Joe’s on Weed St§May 6—Chicago, IL—Soldier Field+May 11—Hays, KS—Fox TheatreMay 12—Omaha, NE—The Admiral#May 13—Minneapolis, MN—US Bank Stadium+May 19—Salt Lake City, UT—The Depot§May 20—Boise, ID—Albertsons Stadium+May 24—Portland, OR—Revolution Hall§May 25—Spokane, WA—Knitting Factory§May 26—Tacoma, WA—Elks Temple§May 27—Vancouver, BC—BC Place+May 28—Palmer, AK—Venue TBAJune 3—Edmonton, AB—Commonwealth Stadium+June 8—Fort Smith, AR—TempleLive^June 9—Wichita, KS—WAVE**June 10—Kansas City, MO—Arrowhead Stadium+June 15—Columbus, OH—The Bluestone++June 16—Cincinnati, OH—Bogart’s++June 17—St. Louis, MO—Busch Stadium+June 22—Little Rock, AR—Little Rock Hall††June 23—Oklahoma City, OK—The Criterion††June 24—Luling, TX—Watermelon Thump††July 6—Isle of Palms, SC—The Windjammer^July 7—Orlando, FL—House of Blues^July 8—Tampa, FL—Raymond James Stadium+July 13—Montgomery, AL—Montgomery Performing Arts CenterJuly 14—Huntsville, AL—Orion Amphitheater‡‡July 15—Charlotte, NC—Bank of America Stadium+July 20—Buffalo, NY—Buffalo Iron Works††July 21—Cambridge, MA—The Sinclair††July 22—Foxborough, MA—Gillette Stadium+July 27—Norfolk, VA—The NorVA^July 28—Richmond, VA—The National^July 29—Philadelphia, PA—Lincoln Financial Field+

*with special guest Connor Smith+supporting Luke Combs Word Tour†with special guest Meghan Patrick‡with special guest Cole Chaney§with special guest Colby Acuff#with special guest Brent Cobb^with special guest Pony Bradshaw**with special guests The Steel Woods and Pony Bradshaw++with special guest Grady Spencer & the Work††with special guest Emily Nenni‡‡supporting Parker McCollum

The City of Isle of Palms is holding the first of two public hearings to discuss limiting future development and protecting the golf courses in the Wild Dunes p

ISLE OF PALMS, S.C. (WCSC) - The City of Isle of Palms is holding the first of two public hearings to discuss limiting future development and protecting the golf courses in the Wild Dunes planned development district on Tuesday.

The discussion stemmed from a 1975 agreement that would make it possible for there to be over 300 more rooms built in the Wild Dunes between hotels and condos.

According to Mayor Phillip Pounds, it all started back in February when a group of residents asked the council to take a look at the decades-old agreement to see if they could make some changes. Anthony Santiago says he was one of those residents.

“We thought we were developed already after The Sweetgrass Inn,” Santiago said. “We don’t even have parking for that. And then through the due diligence we discovered the capacity to expand this more than double.”

Santiago and others who are against future development in Wild Dunes say that more development would overwhelm public safety and public works resources, cause more drainage and sewage issues, and make traffic and parking on the island more of a nightmare.

“Every city municipality has the right to rezone as you develop,” Santiago said. “This is almost fifty years ago when we did this. Nobody thought we’d be as big as we are.”

The Isle of Palms City Council now has five ordinances up for discussion that would preserve public and private facilities and put a cap on density in the planned development district.

Beverly Miller is the executive director of the Barrier Island Preservation Alliance, a nonprofit formed to address challenges unique to the barrier islands. She said she wanted to show support for the ordinances through a petition. It now has over 750 signatures.

“When that was written, this island was erratically different, and it’s so different now that we need to amend those zoning ordinances so that we are up to today and the demands that are on the island today that were not here in 1975,” Miller said.

Pounds said the Wild Dunes agreement was one of the first of its type in the country.

“Unusual maybe, but as areas get built out there’s certainly an opportunity for cities to revisit the zoning and the density and the future development,” Pounds said.

Pounds said the city has received many phone calls and emails from concerned residents worried how much the island could take. He says there’s confusion about the slow process, but he says with the public hearing, that will stop development even though they aren’t completely through the process.

“When you’re on an island where you have such little landmass to develop anything, the ability to put 300 plus units in Wild Dunes today, I don’t even know where they would put them because there’s not that kind of landmass,” Pounds said. “But some of the concern was, could they do something on the golf courses, could they do something on the tennis courts. That’s some of the ordinance that we’re looking at during this process is protecting those areas.”

Tuesday’s public hearing will take place at Isle of Palms city hall at 5 p.m. Another public hearing will take place Nov. 1 at 5 p.m. at the city’s recreation center. The city’s planning commission will take a look at the ordinances and give feedback to city council. Then, it will be up to city council to schedule a second reading which would solidify the ordinances.

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ISLE OF PALMS, S.C. (WCBD) – Residents on the Isle of Palms voiced concerns about a possible threat to the island’s golf courses, green spaces, and recreation spaces.

Some of the green spaces in the Wild Dunes Resort could be bulldozed if action isn’t taken to prevent development. Neighbors say they’re concerned Wild Dunes Resort owners are looking to build hotels and homes over the spaces.

The overwhelming message from residents during a special called city council meeting Monday was working to protect the green spaces. City council approved the first reading for five ordinances they say will do just that. Some council members warn it could be a lengthy process.

“Who wins when we give away accommodations tax money,” says Randy Bell, a former Isle of Palms City Councilman and concerned resident. “The entities that don’t benefit the community, that is not a benefit to this community.”

Dozens of residents voiced concerns about potential plans to build over Wild Dunes golf courses and recreational spaces saying the development could bring severe consequences.

“Not only to preserve the greenspaces and open spaces that are critical for stormwater management but also to limit the density in Wild Dunes to mitigate the impact on the city’s resources,” says Bev Miller, a concerned resident.

Plans for development within the resort could bring hundreds of homes, hotels, or condos in place of the current green spaces. Residents at the meeting say it would also bring traffic, noise, and parking issues with it.

“And it’s for the purpose of allowing this audience and this community a voice in the affairs of the community,” says Bell.

Council took up five ordinances meant to protect green space and prevent the building. All five ordinances passed with 8 to 1 votes.

“We need to make sure we protect all the interests, protect as much greenspace as we can,” says Councilman Rusty Streetman. “Conservation and all of that is top of mind.”

Councilman Kevin Popson was the only no vote on the ordinances. The ordinances will likely move to second reading in the coming weeks. Council warns the process could be a lengthy one with potential negotiations with Wild Dunes or legal action looming.

“I fully support what we are doing,” says Councilman Blair Hahn. “But this is the beginning of what could be a six-month process.”

During the special called meeting, residents say it’s important to keep fighting to protect the land and recreational spaces.

“We can not back down from these people,” says Tony Santiago, a concerned resident. “They will just keep coming and coming and coming.”

Isle of Palms City Council will hold a public hearing on the topic and five ordinances Tuesday, October 18th at City Hall to allow people to give feedback before they get a second reading. The hearing will start at 5 pm.