Mt. Pleasant Boutique Hotel

The Client

Our client, a developer, had successfully secured all necessary zoning approvals to build a small, boutique hotel in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina. However, despite achieving these hard-won approvals, the project encountered an unexpected roadblock due to opposition from a few influential local figures.

The Challenge

Local politics intervened, derailing the project. A handful of influential individuals lobbied local government officials to halt the hotel development, leading to erroneous and prejudicial actions that jeopardized the project. This interference left our client in a challenging position:

• Instead of proceeding with construction permits, he faced a sudden revocation of his development approvals, despite having followed all zoning requirements.
• The project risked being abandoned due to the influence of a few vocal opponents, underscoring how political interests can infringe on property rights.

Our client needed a team capable of navigating local politics, understanding zoning laws, and effectively challenging unjust governmental decisions.

Our Approach

Upon being retained, we acted swiftly and strategically:

1. Thorough Analysis and Document Retrieval: We conducted a detailed review of the case, tracking down key documents and uncovering communications that highlighted the unfair and biased actions taken against our client’s project.
2. Strategic Litigation: We formulated a targeted legal strategy to challenge the local government’s actions. By engaging in a well-prepared litigation process, we were able to bring the case to the attention of both local boards and the judicial system.
3. Mediation and Settlement: Recognizing the lack of legal basis to continue opposing the project, the local government agreed to mediation. The case was resolved with minimal concessions from our client, allowing the project to move forward.

Our legal team’s efforts led to both local and judicial victories, ultimately enabling the boutique hotel project to get back on track. With construction now underway, the hotel is set to open its doors and welcome guests in the near future.

Are you facing challenges with property rights or development approvals? Contact us today to discuss how McCullough Khan Appel’s experienced team can assist. Discover more about our work in Land Use Litigation and Development Entitlement and Consulting.

Let us help protect your projects and ensure that your development rights are upheld.