Brunswick County's natural beauty being sapped by GOP-approved overdevelopment: Local resident shares concerns

by Mike Houston, BCDP Communications Team

Sarah L. and her husband moved to Brunswick County from Ohio 26 years ago.

"We fell in love with the gentle aura, the tranquility, and the natural beauty of this amazing place on the sea," she said.

They still love their home but concede it's not all smooth sailing right now.

"Overdevelopment has sapped much of our natural charm, displaced wildlife, and put undue stress on our infrastructure," Sara said.

Water quality is also a concern for the family. Sara said they've installed a costly home filtration system because of concerns about the quality of the area's drinking water.

"It just seems to me as if no one has any real solid development plan on the table," Sarah said. " They're building everywhere and building so quickly that I don't think they're considering many of the intangibles.

"I just don't know how they could possibly monitor all of this new construction and the residual impacts effectively. There's strain throughout this area as a result of these business opportunities or greed, take your pick.”

Sarah remains hopeful despite some misgivings.

"People like me who want change have to get actively involved in the process," she said. "We have to let our elected officials know how we feel, and if we don't agree with them, we have to elect new people. The future of this area depends upon a cohesive vision.”

Sarah said she doesn't feel the need for an outright moratorium on development, but believes a slowdown is in order.

"We need an effective and long range development plan for this entire area which not only looks at housing but schools, infrastructure, health care needs and potable water," Sarah said.

"We all deserve that."

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