City on right track with big-box ordinance

Too often, our fast-growing city finds itself fighting against unwanted development in its own back yard. Once-relevant ordinances seem weak as high-priced developers and lawyers look for loopholes and density deals.

Some have left the city with a few blemishes -- commercial and residential architecture that seemed out of place on downtown streets, signs that looked uninviting or non-conforming, and even buses that resembled trolleys.

The latest test to our civic leaders has been the 195,000-square-foot Wal-Mart proposed for U.S. 21 at the gateway to the Sea Islands.

Despite being turned down by planning officials, the proposal uncovered a chink in the city's zoning armor. And while Beaufort County leaders have identified where certain commercial developments can and cannot be built, the city finds itself on the precipice of following suit.

That's a good idea but one long overdue.

The Northern Beaufort County Regional Plan -- a vision for land use through 2025 crafted by local governments north of the Broad River -- suggests among other things areas where big-box stores may be built.

On Tuesday, the city staff received its marching orders to pen an ordinance that confines so-called big-box retailers, such as Wal-Mart, to specific areas within the city. Mayor Bill Rauch has suggested that big-box retailers build on two of the three major corridors -- S.C. 170 and S.C. 280, where much of the large-scale commercial development already exists within the city limits.

That's a good idea.

Big-box stores are not evil, as some may argue; they are needed conveniences, especially in areas with a burgeoning population. Wal-Mart and Lowe's fit the description, and it's no secret that many folks around the city would welcome a Target or the like -- just not on more rural stretches such as Sea Island Parkway.

Rauch wants to ban big boxes from U.S. 21 -- the third gateway into the city -- and he might be right. Trask Parkway is a major commercial corridor with much potential. But nearing Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, the lay of the land becomes more rural, and large retailers should be banned. If adequate setbacks are mandated, a big box could be built below the air station but above its S.C. 170 intersection. Even Hilton Head Island has big-box retailers, but they are planned such that they are barely, if at all, noticeable from the road. Wal-Mart, Sam's Club and Barnes & Noble are prime examples.

The public should certainly have a role in deciding where large-scale retail should be built. Once an ordinance is drafted, it will head to the

Beaufort-Port Royal Joint Municipal Planning Commission before receiving two City Council votes.

We can decry the sins of our forefathers or we can become part of the solution by getting involved. If we're to protect this city's character, then we must do it proactively. Although this ordinance may be a reaction to the Wal-Mart proposal on U.S. 21, it's the right thing to do.