Beaufort County Council held a workshop Monday, to hear presentations from stakeholders regarding the proposed waterway ordinance amendments.  The proposed amendments would impact County-owned or maintained docks and landings, piers and parking lots. 

Several presenters emphasized the importance of access to all County docks and landings. The concern primarily involved unlicensed business owners operating on the water. Several stakeholders commented on the value and essential barge services operating; those cargo ships and barges are required to follow safety compliance, captains and mates are all trained and licensed, and are a reliable resource supporting maritime infrastructure goals. 

The general consensus was to keep access open to all licensed marine businesses, support of a reasonable usage fee, and penalties to operators of unlicensed water-related operators.

The following groups gave presentations and public comment:

• Beaufort Kayak Tours
• Lowcountry Waterways Alliance
• Daufuskie Island - Mike Hubbard
• Daufuskie Island Transport
• Mark Pandzich, Cory Cunningham, Megan McLaughlin

Watch the entire workshop and all the presentations here.

The County is currently accepting public comment at connect.beaufortcountysc.gov.