April 4, 2008
Beach driving suit sides get a week to settle
The much anticipated case that threatened to close Outer Banks beaches to driving was in court in Raleigh this afternoon. Instead of ruling on the case, the judge gave both sides a week to reach a settlement. Here's the short story the Associated Press just filed:
Judge allows additional week to settle beach driving lawsuit
The Associated Press
A federal judge has given environmentalists and national park officials a week to complete a settlement of a lawsuit over off-road vehicles in Cape Hatteras National Seashore.
The lawsuit filed in October argued that existing National Park Service rules didn't protect nesting birds and sea turtles on the Outer Banks.
U.S. District Court Judge Terrence Boyle said Friday, however, that he was ready to order a temporary ban on driving in parts of the seashore. But lawyers for both sides said they were sure they would have the settlement completed in a week.
Boyle also told attorneys that representatives from two counties that intervened in the lawsuit should participate in the negotiations.
Comments
[April 5, 2008 11:32 AM]
DebbieThis issue is much more involved than just driving on the beaches on Hatteras Island. The Cape Hatteras National RECREATIONAL Seashore was set aside in the 50's for HUMAN recreation and enjoyment of the natural beaches of NC. The environmentalist want to stop all HUMAN access to these natural wonders located on Hatteras Island. You won't even be able to walk to Cape Hatteras Point. Check out www.savehatteras.com. Read the articles. Read what the locals have to say. This doesn't just affect vacationers' enjoyment of Hatteras Island, it effects the whole way of life of the year round residents and life-long residents of Hatteras Island. This is a huge issue. Where do we put an end to the government taking away our rights! I love Hatteras Island and I don't want it to change!!!
[April 6, 2008 12:42 PM]
OBX Guy : →http://therealouterbanks.comAs a resident of the Outer Banks I am also very concerned about the economic impact on the area. I do agree protecting wildlife is an important cause but the economic vitality of a region is at stake. Save the beaches and find a compromise