Becoming Greater Charleston

What will Charleston be like a hundred years from now?

That's a good question without a clear answer unless the region known as the Lowcountry reconsiders its governance.

And, according to Ed Pendarvis, there's no better time than the present to do just that.

Pendarvis, a local businessman who has dabbled in politics, understands what is possible and what is not.

Right now, he says, the stars are perfectly aligned for this community to realign itself as a city-state that would eliminate turf battles and make us a more competitive region.

"The time has come and the timing is right to combine our two wonderful cities, Charleston and North Charleston, into a Greater Charleston," Pendarvis said. "The political situation is such that this is the right time to mold these two cities together into the largest city in the state of South Carolina."

One voice

That sonic boom you just heard was Charleston Mayor Joe Riley and North Charleston Mayor Keith Summey running to their respective podiums to declare this idea absurd, unworkable and politically improbable.

On the surface, it has all the potential of New York and New Jersey agreeing to merge. But stranger things have happened when forward-thinking people consider alternatives to the status quo.

"Very uniquely, we have wonderful, trusted, experienced and outstanding leadership in both cities," Pendarvis said. "Mayor Riley and Mayor Summey are both nearing the end of their successful careers. If they could serve together over the new 'Greater Charleston,' it would put us in a stronger position and give us one voice when we're dealing with the ports, railroads, transportation, tourism, historic areas and all the issues that lie ahead."

Time is now

That means North Charleston loses its directional prefix but gains international recognition. Meanwhile, Charleston gains an avenue of growth.

This idea includes Daniel Island, but leaves Mount Pleasant and Hanahan alone due to their distinctive characteristics. James Island remains a loose cannon for now.

But it allows current council members a way to roll through the transition and maintain much-needed experience and leadership, Pendarvis said.

So who is Ed Pendarvis? And is he crazy?

No. He's a smart guy I grew up with in Allendale. He's a Citadel grad who's run a successful business.

He's good people.

If you agree with his concept, contact him at etp@sunbeltnetwork.com or 843-819-7842. He's seeking grass-roots support.

"Politics is the art of the possible," he said. "If we miss this opportunity and new mayors are elected, they will only want to get re-elected and the moment will pass us by."

If not now, he asks, when?

Reach Ken Burger at kburger@postandcourier.com or 843-937-5598 or follow him on Twitter at www. twitter.com/Ken_Burger. To read previous columns, go to postand courier.com/burger.

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