Defending Private Property Rights Amid Regulatory Overreach: A Response to The Post and Courier Editorial
*CHARLESTON, SC / ACCESSWIRE / February 21, 2024* */* In a contentious editorial published on February 19, The Post and Courier levied unfounded accusations against a private citizen, alleging violations of state laws regarding the construction of seawalls on barrier island beaches. This editorial not only misrepresents the facts but also undermines public confidence in mainstream media by disregarding the fundamental principle of private property rights as protected under the United States Constitution.
Contrary to the claims made by The Post and Courier, state law only prohibits the construction of structures seaward of the State setback lines, a boundary within which the subject structure does not fall. This structure is situated well landward of the setback line, placing it outside of state jurisdiction and in full compliance with existing laws. The editorial's insinuations about the legality of protecting one's property at the expense of public beach access are baseless, as no such law that limits private land use to the degree suggested. It is essential to highlight that property owners relinquish jurisdiction over land seaward of the setback line but retain full rights landward of it.
The United States, as a constitutional republic, mandates that all local laws and regulations align with the Constitution, which includes the protection against government seizure of private property through regulation without just compensation. The Fifth Amendment explicitly states that government regulations cannot unduly limit the use of private property without providing fair compensation to the landowner.
Addressing the accusations directed at my actions, the retaining structure installed was positioned approximately 20 feet within my property line, behind additional landscaping and fencing, and entirely outside the purview of state jurisdiction. The assertion that this was an unauthorized act is incorrect. The subsequent refusal by the OCRM to permit the restoration of a sand dune in front of the structure is unlawful and converts private back yards to public beach through unlawful state action and without compensation. Every citizen should be concerned.
Moreover, the insinuation of unethical behavior by Senator Goldfinch in the editorial is both unwarranted and disrespectful. Senator Goldfinch has served his community with honor and integrity, and such baseless accusations only serve to malign his character without justification.
Finally, the suggestion that an appeal to a DHEC board would be an attempt to avoid judicial proceedings is entirely unfounded. We are prepared to demonstrate in court that the government's actions have overstepped the bounds of property rights, echoing the defense successfully mounted in the case of David Lucas.
This situation highlights the need for a robust defense of property rights against overreach by governmental or regulatory bodies. It is imperative that we stand up and re- affirm the importance of these foundational principles.
*For further information, please contact:*
Rom Reddy
RomReddy@gmail.com
*SOURCE: *Rom ReddyView the original press release on accesswire.com