Progress on Concerns
In a long-awaited rendezvous, Port Royal Mayor Kevin Phillips finally sat down with representatives from Safe Harbor Marinas on Thursday, Feb. 1, at the Town Hall in Port Royal. The discussion proved to be fruitful and promising.
Present at the meeting were Vice President for Construction and Development, Peter Clark, along with attorneys John Ray and Nicole Scott from Safe Harbor. Mayor Phillips was accompanied by Town Councilman Jerry Ashmore, Town Manager Van Willis, and their team.
Safe Harbor came prepared with their agenda, albeit one that omitted the contentious “build-to-rent” proposal, a matter of concern for both town leadership and residents. Mayor Phillips made it clear that this topic needed addressing and should take precedence on the agenda.
It was revealed that Safe Harbor had no contractual obligations with The Beach Company, the firm behind the “build-to-rent” concept. Furthermore, Safe Harbor expressed openness to reconsidering this option, acknowledging it wasn’t a foregone conclusion.
John Ray, representing Safe Harbor, assured the town officials that their concerns would be conveyed to Safe Harbor headquarters for discussion. Mayor Phillips emphasized the importance of finding alternative solutions.
Town officials left the meeting with a positive outlook. Town Manager Van Willis noted that various topics were discussed, including the permitting process and master planning efforts. Safe Harbor indicated progress in obtaining permits for dock and pier construction, which they anticipated would commence within the next few months.
Of paramount importance was Safe Harbor’s stance on the Bluff neighborhood. It was evident that they were not firmly committed to the build-to-rent model, considering the significant opposition from the community.
Safe Harbor’s acquisition of the 317-acre Port of Port Royal site over two years ago marked the beginning of an extensive development plan. The Beach Company’s involvement in the residential component, particularly the build-to-rent proposal, sparked significant controversy.
Mayor Phillips, who campaigned against the build-to-rent concept, emphasized the need for decisive action during his mayoral campaign. His election victory underscored the community’s concerns regarding the development plans.
Following an executive session in December 2023, the Town Council authorized a letter to Safe Harbor, expressing a multitude of concerns. Mayor Phillips’ subsequent letter outlined deadlines for responses, aiming to foster a constructive relationship with Safe Harbor.
Although no definitive commitments regarding the Bluff neighborhood were made during the Feb. 1 meeting, Mayor Phillips remarked on Safe Harbor’s desire for a positive partnership with the Town. The overall sentiment following the meeting was one of optimism, with all parties hopeful for further progress and collaboration.