Reconsider Angel Oak project

Developer Robert DeMoura, under pressure from opponents to his controversial plans for an apartment complex adjacent to the Angel Oak, has significantly changed the appearance of his proposed project. His new plans would move buildings. They would change traffic within the development.

And current plans don't include the 55 affordable housing units the developer has committed to build (of the 578 total) until the second phase of construction, which could be several years away.

Mr. DeMoura, Charleston Mayor Joe Riley, Johns Island activist Bill Saunders and other island residents advocated for the development largely by pointing to its affordable housing component.

The changes are allowed under the city's planned urban development (PUD) restrictions, according to a city planning spokesman. But the project as it exists now is not the same project City Council approved in June of 2008. That is why council needs to reconsider it.

Indeed, Councilmember Kathleen Wilson would like council to start over in its review process. Mrs. Wilson voted against the plan three years ago and continues to have general concern about the project and its possible impact on the iconic oak tree. She believes there is enough interest in the beloved Angel Oak for council to support her in a motion for reconsideration.

Council should do just that -- even if the law doesn't require it. To start with, members should demand a sound reason for postponing the affordable units. Without such justification, a delay is unacceptable, and Council should expect the promised affordable housing in Phase I.

In addition, delaying construction of those units also dashes hopes that part of the 42-acre tract designated for Phase 2 could be purchased and kept as green space to expand the city's Angel Oak park. Conservation groups have urged that at least a portion of that tract be preserved for that purpose, and even Mayor Riley once said he was open to the idea in light of the Angel Oak's value to the area.

If Mr. DeMoura receives permits from the U.S. Corps of Engineers and DHEC, he could begin construction Nov. 30. City Council needs to act quickly.