Hardeeville Outlines Major Goals for 2024 Including Appointment of New City Manager, Workforce Housing, and Addressing Homelessness Issue

Hardeeville’s Key Goals in 2024

This promises to be an important year for Hardeeville, as highlighted in the recent Mayor’s Memo penned by Mayor Harry Williams. The city’s annual retreat in January set the stage for a series of key goals that the Council aims to achieve in 2024.

Appointment of a New City Manager

One of the paramount tasks on the agenda is the appointment of a new city manager. With the impending retirement of the current city manager, Michael Czymbor, in October, the Council is keen on having his successor in place by September 1st. This timeline is crucial to ensure a smooth transition given the city’s ongoing development activities.

Workforce Housing

Addressing the need for workforce housing is another top priority for Hardeeville in 2024. The Council is working towards creating a template that will facilitate the development of affordable homes and rentals for city employees, teachers, and medical personnel. Collaborating with investors and builders, the city aims to implement a creative approach to meet this critical need.

Argent Boulevard Development

Improving the infrastructure along Argent Boulevard remains a key focus area for the city. Efforts are underway to enhance safety measures, including the installation of lights at strategic intersections. The goal is to create a more accessible and secure route for residents and commuters in the region.

Veterans and First Responders Memorial Park

Advancing plans for a memorial park to honor veterans and first responders is gaining momentum in 2024. The proposed park, designed to be a tranquil space for reflection and remembrance, is set to become a cherished community asset. Discussions on funding sources are slated for the upcoming budget season.

Historic Preservation Commission

Hardeeville is also making strides towards establishing a historic preservation commission, thanks to the efforts of Jasper County resident Cathleen DeCourcy. This initiative aims to preserve the rich history of the region and commemorate individuals who have contributed to its growth and development.

Homelessness Issue

Mayor Williams intends to kickstart a regional dialogue on the growing homelessness issue, recognizing the need for comprehensive strategies to address this complex societal challenge. Collaboration across jurisdictions will be vital in tackling this pressing issue effectively.

Local Elections and Referendums

With local elections scheduled for November, Hardeeville residents will have the opportunity to elect new leaders who will shape the city’s future. The non-partisan nature of these elections underscores the focus on local issues such as property taxes, infrastructure, and economic development.

Additionally, residents in Beaufort and Jasper counties will be presented with referendum questions on a 1% transportation sales tax. The outcome of these referendums will determine the funding for crucial road improvement projects in the region, highlighting the significance of community engagement in local decision-making.

As Hardeeville charts its course for 2024, the city continues to embrace change and progress, guided by a vision of a thriving and inclusive community.