Exciting Changes Ahead for Hilton Head Island as Upcoming Election Approaches

Exciting Changes Ahead for Hilton Head Island as Election Approaches

Hilton Head Island is buzzing with anticipation as residents, workers, and visitors prepare for a significant turning point in their community. In less than 60 days, voters will be heading to the polls to elect three new town council representatives. This election comes at a crucial time where the future of the U.S. 278 Corridor project will undoubtedly be top of mind for everyone on the island.

The Big Project on the Horizon

The U.S. 278 Corridor project is set to bring some major changes to the island. Plans are in the works to replace four aging bridges between Bluffton and Hilton Head with a single, larger six-lane bridge. This is no small endeavor and has sparked more than seven years of debate among residents, Beaufort County, and the town itself. While some people believe this project could greatly improve commute times for the island’s growing workforce and enhance emergency evacuation plans, others worry that a bigger bridge could disrupt the peaceful quality of life on the island.

Particularly, residents of the Big Stoney Historic Gullah Neighborhood have expressed concern over how the changes might affect their community’s character and charm. In June, the town council voted 5-2 in favor of moving forward with the project, enabling the South Carolina Department of Transportation to seek approval from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and start looking for contractors. Ground-breaking for this substantial project is estimated to take place in mid-to-late 2025, with costs ranging from $460 to $480 million. Significant funding has already been secured, leaving a segment up to $180 million to be covered by a proposed penny sales tax in the upcoming election.

A Diverse Candidate Pool

As the election day nears, residents will have quite the lineup to choose from! A total of seven candidates have stepped forward to fill positions for Wards 1, 3, and 6, which could lead to at least two new faces joining the Hilton Head Town Council. One familiar face is Alex Brown, the current Ward 1 representative, who is running for re-election. Brown brings a wealth of experience to his position, having been involved in local governance since 2020.

Brown, a fifth-generation Gullah descendant, has made significant contributions to the community through various roles, including chair of the finance committee and liaison between the recreation center and the town. He also participates in several local initiatives promoting culture and education.

On the other hand, several new candidates are eager to make an impact. Daniel Anthony, a local builder with 40 years of island experience, is among the contenders, bringing his passion for home renovations and community service. Others, like Amy Fee and Steve DeSimone, offer backgrounds in finance, development, and community volunteering, making their case in a race that promises to add some freshness to the council.

Council Positions Up for Grabs

The upcoming election will not only bring change in leadership but will also reshape the direction Hilton Head Island takes in the crucial years to come. The mid-island area, covering from South of Broad Creek to Coligny Beach, will find new representation with Ward 3, as Mayor Pro-tem David Ames confirmed he will not seek re-election.

With three candidates vying for Ward 6, which represents the northern part of the island, the community will have plenty of voices to consider. From Paige Cope, a sixth-generation Lowcountry native, to Rex Garniewicz, who leads the Coastal Discovery Museum, and Melinda Tunner, a finance expert, there’s no shortage of local talent stepping up for consideration.

Looking Forward

As the elections approach, one thing is sure: Hilton Head Island is at a crossroads. With the U.S. 278 Corridor project looming large, residents are encouraged to engage with the candidates and understand how each person’s vision aligns with the community’s needs. With your vote, you can play a role in shaping the future of this beautiful island.

Stay tuned for more updates on the elections and the exciting changes ahead for Hilton Head Island. There’s so much to look forward to!