News Summary
Residents of North Myrtle Beach are uniting against a newly approved housing development project that plans to construct 49 homes on 58 acres. Gathering signatures for a petition to halt construction, locals express concerns about water runoff, increased traffic, and wildlife disruption. The city council’s 4-3 vote has sparked significant opposition, with community members fearing for their neighborhood’s future as they seek ways to preserve their environment and quality of life.
North Myrtle Beach Residents Rally Against Proposed Housing Development
A Controversial Development Sparks Upheaval
North Myrtle Beach, a picturesque community known for its sandy beaches and friendly vibes, is feeling the heat as residents rally against a newly approved housing development. The city council has given a thumbs-up for the construction of 49 homes on an expansive 58 acres at the busy intersection of Highways 22 and 31. But not everyone is on board—residents are coming together to voice their concerns and make their opinions known.
A Petition in the Works
Fueled by a common purpose, residents have launched an active petition campaign to try and halt this development. They aim to gather approximately 3,000 signatures by February 3, hoping to introduce a petition-based ordinance that opposes the project. This grassroots movement is being organized through a dedicated Facebook group aptly named Save North Myrtle Beach, where locals share their concerns and encourage each other to participate.
What’s Behind the Opposition?
Local leaders, like Jolene Puffer, highlight that this protest isn’t just about the homes—they’re standing up for the principles that keep their community thriving. The city council’s close 4-3 vote to approve the project only added fuel to the fire, particularly since the planning commission had previously recommended denial of the project. This decision has left many residents scratching their heads and fearing for their future.
One of the most pressing concerns among residents is water runoff issues. The land in question is currently part of the stormwater management system for the busy highways. With flooding and swampy conditions already a recent reality after storms, locals worry that adding more homes will only exacerbate the problem. Outfall 2, the area’s drainage system, is reportedly overloaded, making the potential impact of the new development all the more worrisome.
Traffic and Wildlife Woes
Moreover, traffic concerns loom large in discussions about the development. Locals are anxious that the proposed access road from Marsh Glen Drive could create hazardous conditions, infringing on community planning and leading to congestion in an already bustling area. Residents like Dennis Stamey, who lives right next door to where the homes are proposed, fear that the increased traffic could put a strain on their quiet neighborhood.
And let’s not forget about the wildlife in the area. Reports of local bears and other animals being potentially impacted by the proposed project have left many residents feeling uneasy. The natural habitat of these creatures is something the community holds dear, and altering the environment for development purposes seems like a trade-off too risky to make.
City Council Split on Decision
While some council members argue that the project is essential for filling a gap in the local market and boosting the economy, many residents see it as an oversight of community needs in favor of economic growth. With the project’s proposal initially suggesting 59 homes, developers have reduced the number to 49 in response to local feedback, but for some residents, it feels like merely a cosmetic change.
Interestingly, there was a provision that allowed the city to purchase the land for $3 million if construction permits weren’t approved within six months, but this option has now been removed. This has left residents with even more uncertainty about the future of their neighborhood and the direction the city council is headed.
What Happens Next?
As the clock ticks down to the February 3 signature deadline, the community’s efforts to save their corner of paradise are intensifying. With a mix of determination and concern for the future, residents continue to stand together against this controversial development. They know they have a long fight ahead, but they’re ready to hold their ground for what they believe in.
North Myrtle Beach residents have made it clear that they care deeply about their home, and as the debate continues, it is apparent that the outcome of this housing project could shape the community for years to come. Will the voices of the people be enough to change the course? Time will tell, but one thing is certain—the spirit of North Myrtle Beach is strong.
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Additional Resources
- My Horry News: Petition to Overturn Development
- WMBF News: Ordinance for Housing Development Approved
- Myrtle Beach Online: Real Estate News
- Wikipedia: North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
- Google Search: North Myrtle Beach housing development
Author: STAFF HERE MYRTLE BEACH
The HERE Myrtle Beach Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Myrtle Beach community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Myrtle Beach Our team includes lifelong Myrtle Beach residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent developments along the Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach’s tourism and hospitality industry, and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Coastal Carolina University programs). Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
