It was with some trepidation and surprise that I learned 1 of our new homeowners here at Sunset Beach wanted to install an in-ground pool on his oceanfront property!  Dismay was a closer description.  I simply could not understand how or why someone would want/need an in-ground pool 50 yards from my favorite "pool" aka The Ocean!

A history lesson may be in order here.  Sunset Beach is a quite, undisturbed barrier island in S.E.  North Carolina.  The only access to Sunset is a 50 year old 1 way "swing" bridge that is 1 of 3 left in the United States.  There are NO putt-putt golf courses,  beachwear stores, or anything resembling it's spoiled neighbor Myrtle Beach.  The only store on the island sells some cold cuts, soda and the required Corona.  The 5 mile island is dotted with beach homes dating back to the late 1950's and early 1960's.  The NC state division of beach reclamation visited last year.  I spoke with several of them-thinking that we were perhaps losing part of our beach to erosion; like most other coastal communities.  Actually; they informed me-the beach at Sunset was GROWING!  They were there to see what it was that we were doing correctly, so they could share it with other coastal towns in NC.  We have footbridges over the dunes, loggerhead sea turtles choose to nest, lay eggs, and live here.  We happily share our slice of beach with Summer residents and welcome all who just come for a day or a week. 

Given that background; you can imagine my surprise when a 5 year ocean front property owner decided he needed an in ground pool in his backyard.  I am ecstatic to report that this gentleman did NOT receive permission to do so.  Sometimes there is more to a community then just bending over to those who pay the most tax (his argument).  Thank you residents of Sunset Beach for keeping our community unspoiled for another generation.