Beaufort County Council authorizes condemnation of Ladies Island parcel after appraisal dispute

Beaufort County Council voted 4–2 on July 15 to authorize the county administrator to pursue condemnation of Parcel R20011000174, a property along Shepherd Road/Causeway and Dock Builders Drive on Ladies Island, after prolonged discussion about appraisal value, prior offers and the steps in the condemnation process.

The motion to authorize condemnation was made by Mr. Cunningham and seconded by Ms. Tabernick. Chair Passamette called for a roll call. Council Member Howard voted “Yes,” Council Member Glover voted “Yes,” Council Member Dawson voted “No,” Council Member Brown voted “No,” Vice Chair McAllen voted “Yes,” and Chair Passamette voted “Yes.” The chair announced that the motion carries.

The public comment period included a resident who said he purchased the parcel at a tax sale and objected to the county’s handling. “I want the value of the property,” the resident said when asked about appraisal and compensation. Council members questioned whether the owner had obtained an independent appraisal and whether county staff had first attempted purchase offers or a land swap.

Council discussion focused on three points: whether an offer at appraised value had been made and rejected; whether continuing to maintain the road would be a workable alternative to acquisition; and the legal mechanics of condemnation. A council member summarized the packet’s account that the county appraisal placed the property at $10,000 and that the owner had reportedly asked for roughly ten times that amount.

County legal staff explained the condemnation process: after initiation the county must deposit the appraised value with the clerk of court, outside counsel would be retained for representation and the court ultimately determines appropriate compensation if the parties do not agree. The legal explanation noted that funds are deposited and the matter is then adjudicated under the condemnation statutes and clerk procedures.

The motion authorizes county staff to proceed with the condemnation process; the council did not approve the ultimate purchase price. Legal staff said the next steps will include retention of outside counsel, deposit of funds as required by law and further notices to the property owner.

The council’s action does not immediately transfer title; it authorizes pursuing the statutory condemnation proceeding and associated steps. The meeting record shows two members opposing the authorization; their objections were grounded in questions about whether the county had exhausted purchase attempts and whether continuing to maintain the roadway would avoid litigation.

The council moved on to other agenda items; staff said further details on subsequent steps and any negotiated settlements would be provided as the process moves forward.