BRUNSWICK COUNTY, NC (WWAY) — Hundreds of concerned people gathered for a community meeting in Southern Brunswick County Tuesday to learn more about a property owner’s plans that could result in the construction of 120 homes.
The meeting held Southeast Brunswick Library centered around the proposed redevelopment of the Carolina Shores Golf and Country Club which closed in November.
The Carolina Shores Golf Course first opened in 1974 and was the main attraction for the Town of Carolina Shores when it separated from Calabash in 1998.
Property owner Phillipe Bureau says over time, the course became financially unsustainable.
“The situation became much more dire after COVID-19 when tourism didn’t come to the beach.” he explained. “We’re a stand-alone, mostly local golf course, and so, we just saw play really dissipate.”
Bureau is seeking a rezoning request to build 120 homes, with plans to donate remaining green space to the county for conservation.
But residents like Rich Gagliano are worried the plan could decrease property value and block their backyard views.
“You paid extra money to be on the golf course. It’s approximately $20,000 more, almost double price of the plot of land to be on the golf course as opposed to across the street or down the block from it,” he said
Gagliano says some have tried to sell, but potential home buyers are reluctant.
“There’s not movement because why would I move into something that is potential to be really horrific,” he explained.
Though, Bureau argues redevelopment could help improve infrastructure for residents, and may be the best long term option for the community.
“In order to provide some storm water solutions for the community, leave green space for the community,” he said. “Otherwise, right now, by use of right, we could build one acre lots, wouldn’t be able to help the community out at all.”
Bureau says despite tensions during the meeting, he appreciates the input.
“Some good feedback, and we’ll look into some of the suggestions, and we’ll be better prepared to answer some of the questions we weren’t prepared for.
While homeowners like Gagliano just hope for a resolution.
“The ideal thing, of course, would be to have somebody to come along who offers Phil a reasonable amount of money that he finds acceptable so he won’t have to go through the fight he’s facing,” he said.