Lexington County, August 25, 2025
News Summary
Mountain Top Marine, a beloved boat dealership in Lexington County, faces closure after significant revenue losses caused by a nearby road improvement project. Debris from the project damaged over 60 boats stored on the dealership’s property, leading to financial strain. Owners Sean and Summer Deese are now preparing to sell their business after 16 years of operation. Communication issues with contractors further complicate their situation as they navigate the insurance claim process amidst their impending closure.
Lexington County
Mountain Top Marine, a family-owned boat dealership in Lexington County, is facing imminent closure due to significant revenue losses stemming from a damaging road improvement project near its location. The dealership has been operational for over 16 years and is located at 514 E Main St. Lexington, SC 29072. Owners Sean and Summer Deese find themselves at a critical juncture as they prepare to put their 5.5-acre property up for sale, marking a poignant moment for their family business.
The road project, which involves asphalt rehabilitation and drainage improvements, was conducted without notifying the Deeses. Video footage from April 29 shows contractors at work, impacting a stretch from Northside Baptist Church to S.C. 6. As a result, over 60 boats stored on Mountain Top Marine’s property received damage from road debris and thick black asphalt residue, compromising upholstery, carpets, and seating. This unfortunate incident represents a considerable financial blow to the dealership.
Sean Deese has attempted to reach out to Blythe Construction, the primary contractor for the road project, and Griffin Contracting, the subcontractor, but reported minimal responses. This lack of communication prompted the Deeses to file a claim with their own insurance company after multiple weeks of unresolved interactions with the contractors. An insurance adjuster has since assessed the boats and is currently documenting the claim, though the Deeses are still awaiting clarity on which damages will be covered.
On June 3, the South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) confirmed the denial of Deese’s claim and instructed him to communicate directly with Blythe Construction regarding further claims related to the damage. According to protocol issued by SCDOT, the dealership was tasked with submitting supporting documentation for the damage to bolster any potential future claims.
At present, Mountain Top Marine generates minimal income solely from boat servicing, which is inadequate to sustain the business during the slower months. The ongoing challenges and uncertainty leave Sean Deese describing the situation as a kind of “purgatory.” The Deeses depict their decision to sell as particularly emotional, having invested significantly in their business over the last sixteen years.
Despite the distressing situation with the contractors and the ongoing troubles with the insurance claim process, the Deeses expressed gratitude for the thoroughness of their own insurance company. However, they are less optimistic about achieving a favorable outcome with the claims directed towards the contractors and SCDOT.
As of now, Mountain Top Marine stands on the brink of closure, grappling with the operational difficulties and emotional toll of recent developments while awaiting resolution concerning the claims and the future of their business.
FAQ
What led to the potential closure of Mountain Top Marine?
Mountain Top Marine is facing closure due to damages from a road improvement project, leading to significant revenue loss.
How were the boats at Mountain Top Marine affected?
The boats stored on the property were damaged by road debris and asphalt, affecting their upholstery, carpets, and seating.
Have the owners received any communication from the contractors?
The owners, Sean and Summer Deese, reported minimal responses from both contractors involved in the road project.
What actions have the owners taken following the damage?
They have filed a claim with their insurance company and are in the process of providing necessary documentation to the insurance adjuster.
What is the current status of Mountain Top Marine?
Mountain Top Marine is currently up for sale as the owners prepare for potential closure while awaiting clarity on insurance claims.
Key Features Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Business Name | Mountain Top Marine |
| Location | 514 E Main St, Lexington, SC 29072 |
| Ownership | Sean and Summer Deese |
| Years in Operation | 16 years |
| Impact of Road Project | Sprayed asphalt and road debris damaged over 60 boats |
| Contractors Involved | Blythe Construction and Griffin Contracting |
| Current Actions | Claim filed with insurance and property for sale |
| Business Status | Facing potential closure |
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Additional Resources
- WIS TV: Lexington Small Business Plans to Shut Down
- Wikipedia: Lexington County, South Carolina
- Columbia Business Report: Ember Restaurant Lexington Opening
- Google Search: Lexington County news
- The State: Local News on Lexington
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Lexington County
- Post and Courier: Lexington Downtown Growth
- Google News: Lexington SC
Author: STAFF HERE LEXINGTON WRITER
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