Hilton Head Island Town Council Election: Candidates Discuss Housing, Safety, and Infrastructure Concerns

Hilton Head Island Town Council Election: Candidates Shine Light on Key Issues

As we approach the upcoming election cycle, Hilton Head Island finds itself in a vibrant atmosphere of civic engagement. Seven candidates are gearing up to fill three seats on the town council representing Wards 1, 3, and 6. The elected officials will officially take their roles in January 2025, but citizens are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the candidates and their positions well ahead of the ballot box.

The Candidates

Among the candidates vying for the Ward 3 seat are Amy Fee and Steve DeSimone. Currently, the council is under the guidance of representatives from Wards 2, 4, and 5, whose terms last until December 2026.

Amy Fee

Amy Fee is no stranger to community involvement. She currently sits on the Board of Zoning Appeals and has been active with the Forest Beach Owners Association. Her commitment to social causes is apparent, as she’s volunteered with food redistribution programs and is involved with local environmental groups. With a background in business at Morgan Stanley, Amy is driven by a passion for improving housing and community resources.

Steve DeSimone

Steve DeSimone brings a wealth of experience, having previously served on the town council from 1995 to 2002. His longtime dedication to community service shines through his roles on zoning boards and coaching youth sports. With roots tracing back to an engineering position with the town, Steve has a firsthand understanding of local infrastructure needs.

Key Issues Facing the Island

Both candidates were asked to weigh in on some pressing topics, including housing, safety, public funding, and infrastructure.

Workforce and Affordable Housing

Amy Fee sees potential in Northpoint’s workforce housing project and emphasizes the need for public-private partnerships to develop sustainable solutions. “Our essential workers like police, teachers, and healthcare staff deserve to live where they serve,” she said. She advocates for a comprehensive approach that identifies successful housing models from other communities.

Steve DeSimone shares similar sentiments, advocating for clear strategies to tackle housing affordability. “By implementing these strategies, we can make significant strides,” he stated, emphasizing improvement of zoning and construction incentives.

Island Safety

When it comes to safety, both candidates believe Hilton Head Island is generally safe, praising the effectiveness of local law enforcement and fire services. Amy Fee noted, “Sheriff Tanner has done a good job,” and highlighted the need for community policing initiatives to foster better relationships between officers and residents. Meanwhile, Steve DeSimone expressed the importance of evaluating public safety measures to adapt to changing community needs.

Penny Sales Tax

The penny sales tax for infrastructure projects has also sparked debate. Amy Fee shows her support, stating it’s a chance for the county to fund necessary improvements without raising the overall tax rate. She noted that this tax impacts not just residents but visitors who benefit from local infrastructure. In contrast, Steve DeSimone is cautious, wanting guarantees about how the funds will be allocated before fully supporting it.

U.S. 278 Corridor Project

Regarding the U.S. 278 Corridor Project, both candidates agree on the need for improvements but differ in their opinions of the current plans. Amy Fee supports the project conditions that minimize disruptions, insisting on transparency and community input. Conversely, Steve DeSimone wants a design that considers the residents’ quality of life, suggesting that the current plan falls short of that aim.

Looking Ahead

As voting day nears, it’s clear that candidates Amy Fee and Steve DeSimone are not just representatives but also community advocates. They are passionate about addressing issues that matter most to Hilton Head Island residents, from workforce housing to road improvements, and they recognize the importance of safeguarding the area’s unique environment. Remember, your vote plays a crucial role in shaping the future of this beautiful island.

Stay engaged, stay informed, and get ready to make your voice heard in this important election!