Dear Friends,
It is an honor to be back among you serving as the Interim Executive Director of the St. Simons Land Trust. I have been privileged to be a part of this organization since its inception, serving as the Founding Board Chair from 1997 until 2006 and again when I served as the Executive Director from 2011 until 2016.
Since those earliest years, all of us at the Land Trust have been committed to protecting and preserving the finest qualities of St. Simons. With your generous support and partnership, we have been able to acquire 1,024 acres of land that will be protected in perpetuity. You have also helped to create a land conservation culture on the island, one that is applauded throughout the Land Trust community.
When I was asked to return to the SSLT as Interim ED, I did so for several reasons, including the fact that those who work and lead this organization are the finest people I’ve ever worked with. But I also returned because protecting the environmental, cultural, and historic features of the coast has never been more important.
As most of you know, there was a hearing last week of the Glynn County Board of Commissioners. At that meeting, the Commission voted to approve the use of Village Drive for public access the waterfront area of Guale Preserve. As I wrote to the commissioners, we are gratified by their decision and grateful that we can again access our land to make certain it is carefully maintained and safe for the public. We also feel a heavy obligation to use this time to do everything possible to bring the community together and do the best thing for the all residents of Glynn County.
To that end, I am talking with people every day, asking for input, and listening to concerns. Our board and staff are meeting with county and state officials. And I am hopeful that those who have been most adamantly opposed to the public use of Village Drive will join us at the table and work toward a positive resolution.
To all of you – the 1,300 members who make financial contributions each year, the more than 150 dedicated and hardworking volunteers, the many business partners who participate in the 1% for St. Simons program and those who sponsor our annual Oyster Roast and other events – I am truly grateful. If you have questions, concerns, or advice, please call me at 912-269-3122 or email me at bslade@sslt.org. I am ready to meet with anyone anytime.
Sincerely yours,
Ben Slade
