Statement on Charleston County’s vote to shift $40 million from rural land conservation

Coastal Conservation League Press Statement

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:  CHARLESTON, S.C.—In response to tonight’s 5-4 vote by Charleston County Council to change the formula for how Greenbelt program funds are distributed and shift $40 million away from rural land conservation, Coastal Conservation League Executive Director Laura Cantral said:

There are few things more important for Charleston County residents than greenspace, flood control, and traffic reduction, and the preservation of productive farmland, culture, and history. The rural Greenbelt program helps makes all of these things possible. Since 2004, it has preserved 21,000 acres of land.

Imagine where we would be without the Greenbelt program.

Tonight’s vote is disappointing and will ultimately compromise the success of the program—just when growth pressures are at an all-time high.

We are heartened by the many advocates and several council members who argued passionately for focusing efforts and taxpayer dollars on protecting rural land. The fight is far from over. The Conservation League will continue to serve as the community’s watchdog and work with partners to monitor the program’s proposed changes.