Mount Pleasant holds public meeting about Growth Management Plan

MOUNT PLEASANT, SC (WCSC) - Mount Pleasant is one of the fastest growing towns in the country. Managing that growth has been a controversial topic in the community. Tuesday night, residents got a chance to voice their concerns about a Growth Management Plan.

The plan was initially approved earlier this month. Some folks think the plan could help reduce traffic and growth in the area, others however, think it could make living in the town more costly in the long run.

Town officials say the plan could slow down development by getting rid of bonuses for developers who want to build more than the town allows. These were put into place years ago when the town was trying to attract new residents and developers to boost the economy.

"Unintended consequences that can impact affordability, quality of life and everything that makes Mount Pleasant an attractive, vibrant community," said Trey Lucy with the Charleston Trident Association of Realtors.

"These bonus densities aren't doing anything to help the problems that we are trying to help. They're not doing anything to create more affordable housing, they're not doing anything to stop sprawl. All they're doing is adding vehicles," said Paul Mount, a resident in Mount Pleasant.

Officials with the planning commission say expert opinions are needed in order to make a concise decision. The mayor says this plan is just a framework, and community feedback is still key. The mayor says it could be months until town council votes on the final reading for the plan.

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