Board backs consultant support for single‑use plastics work and reviews beach‑litter data; public works to assume Gardens Corner maintenance

Keep Beaufort County Beautiful discussed resources to support Beaufort County’s single‑use plastics work and emphasized restoring data collection and community partnerships to strengthen ordinance and advocacy efforts.

Jane reported that a nonprofit consulting group provided studies and strategies about reducing single‑use plastics and that Juliana’s county team is leading the ordinance effort; the board plans to attend a follow‑up meeting on the 25th. Board members said communities increasingly eliminate Styrofoam and that restricting single‑use plastic utensils and straws is a common next step.

Jean Frew and others emphasized re‑establishing litter data collection (South Carolina Aquarium litter data forms) and sharing that data with county staff to strengthen policy discussions with council and to respond to questions from industry or lobbyists. Jean said the group collects “a couple tons of trash a year” on local beaches and that returning consistent data reporting will improve advocacy.

Separately, staff reported that public works will assume maintenance of Gardens Corner (the existing maintenance contract ends) and the beautification committee can still collaborate on enhancements; the board has also purchased planting materials (approximately 1,800 daffodil bulbs) to be planted this fall.

The board did not take a formal vote on ordinance policy at this meeting; members agreed to support county‑led ordinance work, share data, and continue coordination with Juliana’s team and county staff.