June 11, 2026

Dear neighbors,

Supreme Court Decision on Arbitration

PBNA learned yesterday that the South Carolina Supreme Court upheld the lower courts' decisions, ruling in favor of the member-plaintiffs and against the developer. The opinion can be found here. The court in part ruled that the arbitration clause was unenforceable. Be prepared to see a new arbitration agreement come your way in the future, and it will be up to you whether or not you will agree to subject yourself to arbitration. After years of litigating only over where to litigate, this case now likely goes back to the circuit court for trial.

Upcoming Meeting on Walcam/Pioneer Property Sale

We have received notice that the Natural Resources Committee of the Beaufort County Council will hold a meeting for Palmetto Bluff residents on Monday, June 15, 2026, at 4:30 pm in Beaufort at 100 Ribaut Road. This meeting is to answer questions regarding the potential sale of the ~5,000 acres of Walcam/Pioneer property adjacent to the construction gate and spanning from Anson Point golf course to Old Palmetto Bluff Road. For those who prefer not to drive to Beaufort, Grey Ferguson is working on organizing a local venue within Palmetto Bluff, along with an interactive video link to connect with the county. He will send out further communication to all members with those details.

Other Beaufort County Council and Committee Meetings

There is a meet and greet with the Council tonight at 6 pm at the Hilton Head Library, 11 Beach City Road, Hilton Head. The "Chat with Council" event is an opportunity for residents to discuss county business and priorities directly with council members.

The Beaufort County Council has scheduled a meeting for Monday, June 22nd at 6 pm to vote on the $42 million authorization to fund the purchase of the Pioneer/Walcam property by The Nature Conservancy. The meeting will be held in Beaufort at 100 Ribaut Road.

The Beaufort County Green Space Advisory Committee will meet tomorrow, Friday June 12 at 10 am in Beaufort at 100 Ribaut Road.   State Senator Tom Davis has indicated that he plans to address the Walcam / Pioneer tract (under "Other Business" in the agenda).   Sen. Davis may also visit PB Friday afternoon - TBD.

Regards,

Your PBNA Volunteers