Moratorium passed!  The people of Swansboro spoke & the Board of Commissioners (minus 1) listened.  I’m so excited we spoke out for a happy hamlet, and I encourage all of you to continue to let your voices be heard!  And now, I hate to be a wet blanket….
HOWEVER…
We are still in limbo regarding the court case that is pending in Jacksonville that pits the developer, Swansboro Investors, LLC against the Town of Swansboro in regards to the legality of the enacted moratorium.  The fact that it is taking this long for a decision to be rendered concerns me.  It is extremely difficult to fight investors backed by a goliath like Walmart and the single stone we have fired from our David-like little slingshot has yet to fully meet it’s mark.  Unfortunately, this fight could be a long one.  I have no doubt that Walmart’s investors will push us to the limit if given the opportunity.  The veiled threats from both the attorney for Walmart and the investors themselves have alluded to the financial burden that could result from us refusing to roll over and play dead.  Here is where we have a choice to make and it’s important to understand the ramifications of making the right one.
One of the residents that spoke on favor of the proposed large scale retail store has touted the economic benefit of such a business repeatedly.  He has stated that jobs are needed here and this will help fill that need.  He has also stated that the tax benefit is one we cannot afford to pass up.
Baloney.
I’ll just jettison the tax issue first.  The supposed tax benefit does not go directly into our town coffers.  It has to go through  complex process/formula through the state that determines what benefit we may receive.  The max is around $100K per year.  Sounds like a lot, doesn’t it?  It’s a pittance when viewed in light of the additional services the town will have to provide to offset the effects of a business of this type and size.  Just one extra police officer would cost the town over 1/3 of that amount.  And I’d venture to say that one extra cop just won’t cut it in that situation.
Our town doesn’t need 250 minimum wage jobs.  What is does need is a business or businesses that will provide a variety of jobs to both skilled and unskilled labor.  This means a balanced mix of reasonably sized retailers and businesses that will meet the needs of many of our residents. An ideal example would be an assisted living facility or Veteran’s home.  While that type of facility would need to be approved for conditional zoning, I believe it would stand a stronger chance due to the type of commerce and support it could bring to our town.  It would not only provide a service for our aging population, but would also energize our economy with employment in many areas, to include: medical professionals, marketing professionals, community organizers, administrative professionals, insurance agents, food service workers, and dietitians.  THAT is the type of growth we need in our area!
So, let’s not get complacent because we have this small victory.  We STILL have to let our Commissioners, planning board and town manager know what we want for our community.  Speak out, Swansboro!
Still fighting for my town!!
Tiff