By Roderick McClain
11-16-10 – Back in 1999, New Hanover County purchased Airlie Gardens from a local family. With a $13-million deficit looming overhead for the county, the board of commissioners voted yesterday for an easement to the Airlie Gardens property, should it ever change hands again.
The commissioners voted unanimously to adopt a preservation easement which recognizes the historic and cultural values of Airlie Gardens, with the purpose of preserving the grounds.
Jim McDaniel is the Director of Parks, Gardens, and Senior Resources for New Hanover County. He says the easement will protect the historic nature of the property if it should ever be sold.
"The Airlie Gardens Foundation, a separate 501c3 non-profit, who already develops funds for operations of the gardens and also the perpetuation of the gardens, will be the grantee for this, ensuring that it will be operated as a public garden. And the public will be able to have access to it."
Enchanted Airlie, the garden's holiday light display, kicks off on the 26th. Festive music, glimmering lights, and a large model train made of Legos are the featured attractions.
Learn more about Enchanted Airlie.