Excitement Builds for Hilton Head Town Council Elections with Candidates Focusing on Housing and Community Engagement

Excitement Builds for Hilton Head Town Council Elections

As the beautiful island of Hilton Head prepares for its upcoming town council elections, all eyes are on the seven candidates vying for the three available seats in Wards 1, 3, and 6. This election cycle presents a chance for residents to shape the future of their community, with the elected officials set to take office in January 2025. Meanwhile, representatives from Wards 2, 4, and 5 will continue their service until their terms expire in December 2026.

Meet the Candidates for Ward 3

Ward 3 is heating up, with Amy Fee and Steve DeSimone both aiming to represent the mid-island area, which stretches from south of Broad Creek to the popular Coligny Beach. They recently responded to key questions about addressing town issues, paving the way for what the future may hold in Hilton Head.

Amy Fee’s Standpoint

Amy Fee, who currently serves on the Board of Zoning Appeals and is actively involved with the Forest Beach Owners Association, believes the town should take proactive steps to tackle workforce and affordable housing. She highlights the importance of the Northpoint neighborhood project as a promising start and advocates for thoughtful planning and community support.

With a rich background in the hospitality industry and a career at Morgan Stanley, Fee emphasizes that Hilton Head must ensure essential workers, like teachers and emergency responders, can live within the community they serve. “We need a comprehensive strategy that includes planning for infrastructure and diverse housing options,” she said.

Steve DeSimone’s Views

On the other hand, Steve DeSimone, a former council member with years of experience in town government, echoes the need for affordable housing solutions. “By implementing strategies that support our local workforce, we can truly make strides in addressing housing challenges,” he stated. DeSimone supports evaluating existing public safety needs to enhance the safety of the island.

Safety on the Island

Both candidates agree that safety is paramount, with Fee praising local law enforcement and DeSimone focusing on the effectiveness of the island’s emergency preparedness. “Maintaining public safety is about funding and community relationships,” Fee notes, while DeSimone stresses the need for assessments of current safety measures.

A Penny for Progress

As the election approaches, a hot topic among the candidates has been the proposed penny sales tax on the November ballot. Fee supports this initiative, which aims to improve county infrastructure without increasing the overall sales tax rate. “It’s essential for addressing necessary upgrades,” she insists. Conversely, DeSimone is cautious, urging for guarantees regarding the fair allocation of funds for Hilton Head projects before fully supporting the tax.

The Controversial U.S. 278 Corridor Project

Another pressing issue is the U.S. 278 Corridor Project. Fee acknowledges that while the process hasn’t been smooth, it’s crucial to balance development with the lifestyle and environment of residents. She advocates for transparency and active community input in this planning process. DeSimone holds a similar view, insisting that designs must reflect the island’s unique character and prioritize resident needs.

Commitment to Transparency and Community Engagement

The candidates also addressed public engagement, with both Fee and DeSimone promising to maintain open lines of communication with constituents. Fee emphasizes the need for comprehensive representation, saying, “I will always be available to address any questions.” DeSimone similarly commits to explaining his positions while fostering unity within the council to effectively serve residents.

Conclusion: What’s at Stake

With the election just around the corner, Hilton Head residents are presented with a vital opportunity to voice their concerns, aspirations, and needs. As the candidates prepare to stand before voters, the discussions surrounding affordable housing, safety, public infrastructure, and community engagement are crucial topics that could influence the island’s path forward. As voters, it’s our turn to shape the future we envision for Hilton Head Island.