MONCKS CORNER, S.C.–The proposed development of historic Gippy Plantation continues to not sit well with many residents who call the town of Moncks Corner home.
An online petition was recently launched to oppose a developer’s proposed plan to add hundreds of new homes on the historic site. So far, almost 700 people have signed it.
“If the town allows the annexation to move forward, the developer could build 2.5 residential units per acre, or more than 1,200 homes,” the petition warns.
The plantation, which is located off Old Highway 52, dates back nearly 170 years. It was built in 1852. From 1927-1971, it was the site of “Gippy Dairy” which supplied milk products to schools and companies throughout the lowcountry.
The plantation’s name is said to come from an old runaway slave who hid in “Gippy Swamp” in a hollow tree.
Some residents say they fear that Moncks Corner could turn into “Charleston” if the rapid development of their town continues.
“Ridiculous!!!! There are already enough new homes in the area! I hope this doesn’t pass! The small town feel of Moncks Corner is slowly slipping away….so sad!” stated Ramona Simmons Pinckney.
“I grew up in Gippy, my parents still own property out there. There’s plenty of property for sale on new 52. Why destroy a beautiful piece of history?” stated Sarah Hill Zeruth.
Rather than oppose the development, one resident suggested that the developer, town leaders and residents could meet “somewhere in the middle.”
“A compromise might help win public approval. Perhaps we can honor the place’s history, preserve the more beautiful spots, and improve the quality of the proposed development at the same time?” stated Patricia Mountford.
The latest disapproval comes after Hoyer Investment Company and D.R. Horton’s plans to host a second public workshop concerning their proposed development at Gippy Plantation on Thursday, January 17 at 6:00 p.m. at the Moncks Corner Train Depot, 100 Behrman Street.
The developer will be presenting concept drawings of the proposed development and answering questions. The public is invited to attend.
According to Moncks Corner officials, the purpose of this meeting is for the developer to gather additional public input prior to applying to the Moncks Corner Town Council with a formal request for annexation.
According to councilman Jaw Law, town leaders have not officially approved development plans for Gippy Plantation.
“The town has not even seen this plan. We will be seeing it at the meeting Thursday,” stated Law. “Nothing has been proposed to the town at this time and to my understanding no sale has taken place. This is a public input meeting to hear what the developer would like to do if they were to purchase the property.”
Law reminded residents that ultimately town officials cannot control who a person sells their property to and the town does not preserve property.
“No government should be involved in telling someone whether they can sell their land or not,” he stated. “What we do control are ordinances and making sure those ordinances are followed in any developmental plans. Trust me, the elected officials are listening to the community on their thoughts about this development.”
If you are unable to attend Thursday’s meeting, residents can contact Doug Polen, Community Development Director, at [email protected] or 843-719-7913 for information.
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