Support for Seabrook Island Birders continues flying high
BY THERESA STRATFORD | For The Island Connection
Since 2020, the Town of Seabrook Island has publicly endorsed the Seabrook Island Birders and the Shorebird Steward Program, and has done so with a statement of support that has been presented at Town Council meetings.
This was again the case at the start of 2026 when Mayor Bruce Kleinman read a Seabrook Island Birders and Shorebird Steward Program Statement of Support, submitted by the town on January 27.
In summary, the statement read that the town applauds the volunteer efforts of the Seabrook Island Birders, which include the Shorebird Stewardship Program, sponsored by the SC Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR), the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and Audubon South Carolina. The endorsement means that the town of Seabrook Island understands the operations that the Seabrook Island Birders will need to conduct on the area beaches.
For example, they will conduct on-beach activities between Boardwalk 1 and Captain Sams Inlet, mostly during migratory and nesting season, and the Town Council will be briefed on the impact of their activities and findings during the year.
The endorsement also states that they
understand that the Seabrook Island Birders will communicate and educate residents and visitors through the “Ask About the Birds” program, much of which will be conducted electronically.
Council also recognizes that research will need to take place on the beach, requiring them to ask beachgoers to go around the flock at certain times.
Seabrook Island Birders will collect data and share it with the Council on a periodic basis. Council also recognizes that the Seabrook Island Birders will be identified on the beach by wearing uniform vests or t-shirts.
The Red Knots
The Senner Lab, a laboratory that researches how climate change and agricultural intensification impact the biology and migration of birds, reported, “Red knots exhibit one of the most impressive migrations of any bird, completing an annual 18,000-mile round trip journey from their breeding grounds in the Canadian Arctic to their non-breeding areas in Tierra del Fuego each year. During spring migration (February to May), red knots depend on stopover sites along the Atlantic coast of the U.S to rest and refuel.”
One of those stopovers is Seabrook. Seabrook is unique among areas along the South Carolina coast because it has long flats that are gradually exposed as the tide goes down, along with dry beach and intertidal zones to the water line, which can be 75 to 100 yards at low tide. The birds will take advantage of the feeding as more sand is exposed.
Also, the location of Seabrook alone is unique for the birds. To the south is Botany Bay, which is undeveloped, and both Seabrook and Kiawah are bookended by estuarine islands that SCDNR manages. Captain Sams Inlet is another productive ecosystem for shorebirds and has been identified as their preferred habitat.
Red knots will time their migration with a stopover on Seabrook in the spring, dependent on the spawning of horseshoe crab eggs, one of their food sources.
As spring progresses, the flocks increase, and one year, over 7,000 red knots were counted roosting in one place at Captain Sams Inlet.
For these reasons and many others, support for the Seabrook Island Birders was unanimous among the Seabrook Island Town Council.
A flock of Red Knots visiting the Sea Islands.
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Contributors
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Sewer infrastructure discussions ongoing between Kiawah and Seabrook
Feb. 3 marked the Town of Kiawah Island’s first reading to consider approval of ordinance 202605: an ordinance to amend article 10 - Utilities, Chapter 2, Utility Services Operating Agreement, section 10-202, sewerage.
Inspired by the sewer infrastructure issues at Kiawah Island’s Town Hall building, this ordinance was passed unanimously by the Kiawah Island Town Council. In essence, the Town of Kiawah Island would like to connect its town hall to the Seabrook Island Utility for sewer services. Currently and historically, Seabrook Island Utility has not provided sewer services to Kiawah Island’s Town Hall complex, even when requested by Kiawah Island for the sewer service.
Balance is important to The Island Connection, and therefore, we sent questions to both the Town of Kiawah Island and the Town of Seabrook Island concerning the issue. Kiawah Island responded on Feb. 5, and Seabrook Island responded on Feb. 6.
This is a developing story, and updates are happening quickly. The Island Connection is dedicated to providing updates as new developments occur, which are expected over the next week or so.
***
The following are questions and answers between The Island Connection and Kiawah Island Mayor Bradley Belt:
IC: Is it accurate that TOKI has approached Seabrook Island Utility Commission (SIUC) in both 2024 and 2025 about sewer service, but their response was “no” due to capacity issues?
Kiawah Island Mayor Bradley Belt: The Town of Kiawah Island first approached SIUC in 2014 before constructing the Town’s municipal center and formally requested to connect to SIUC’s wastewater service line adjacent to Betsy Kerrison Parkway and the municipal center property. SIUC denied the Town’s request. The stated reasons at that time were that the municipal center property was supposedly outside SIUC’s service area (which includes Seabrook, Freshfields Village, Cassique and Kiawah River Estates) administered by the Berke-
Town of Kiawah Island
Ways and Means Committee
Tuesday, March 3, 10 a.m.
Kiawah Island Town Hall
Town Council
Tuesday, March 3, 1 p.m.
Kiawah Island Town Hall
Planning Commission
Wednesday, March 4, 2 p.m.
Kiawah Island Town Hall
Infrastructure and Public Works Committee
Thursday, March 5, 10 a.m.
Kiawah Island Town Hall
Arts & Cultural Event Council
Thursday, March 5, 2 p.m.
Kiawah Island Town Hall
ley-Charleston-Dorchester Council of Governments (BCDCOG) and that SIUC’s build-out plans show that no further commitments could be made for wastewater services using current facilities.
Kiawah has confirmed with the BCDCOG that SIUC would not be prohibited from providing service to the Town of Kiawah Island at the municipal center (the service area can readily be amended upon application), and the water management plan actually encourages the connection of areas using septic systems to wastewater treatment facilities to avoid potential contamination.
Kiawah has provided the information requested by SIUC, demonstrating that the wastewater demand by the municipal center complex would be de minimis compared to expanded services provided by the utility in the intervening decade-plus, including providing service to Seafields and the new MUSC facility.
In anticipation of developing plans for the new Civic and Cultural Center addition to the Kiawah municipal center, Kiawah reached out to and had a meeting with SIUC in late 2024 to again pursue a connection to SIUC’s wastewater infrastructure, to replace rather than expand the current septic system. SIUC indicated at that time its position hadn’t changed. Starting in early 2025, Kiawah began to move forward with plans to build the Civic and Cultural Center addition, including undertaking a design competition for conceptual plans. Kiawah reached out to Seabrook Council members about the project and, upon recommendation by the Seabrook mayor, added a Seabrook resident (now Council member) to the design review committee.
Based on these discussions and momentum on the Civic and Cultural Center project, Kiawah again reached out to SIUC leadership in September of 2025 seeking to revisit SIUC’s prior position. At this time, SIUC noted that tying into the force main was a fairly complex and expensive project, and that there would need to be an agreement with Kiawah regarding the scope of the project and limits thereto.
Kiawah reiterated that it was prepared and able to cover the costs of the project and followed up by connecting the Town’s engineers to SIUC. Notwithstanding (Continued on page 10)
Town of Seabrook Island
Town Council
Tuesday, Feb. 24, 2:30 p.m.
Seabrook Island Town Hall
Planning Commission
Wednesday, March 11, 1:30 p.m.
Seabrook Island Town Hall
Environment & Wildlife Committee
Thursday, March 12, 10 a.m.
Seabrook Island Town Hall
Public Safety Committee
Tuesday, March 17, 10 a.m.
Seabrook Island Town Hall
Discretionary Grants Committee
Wednesday, March 18, 1 p.m.
Seabrook Island Town Hall
K iawah iSland Town h all 4475 Betsy Kerrison Parkway Kiawah Island, S.C. 29455 843-768-9166
SeabrooK iSland Town h all 2001 Seabrook Island Road Seabrook Island, S.C. 29455 843-768-9121 lmanning@townofseabrookisland.org
JohnS iSland c ouncil
Meetings are held at the Berkeley Electric Co-op located at 3351 Maybank Highway, Johns Island, S.C. 29455 Chairman Chris Cannon: 843-343-5113
charle STon c oun T y c ouncil 4045 Bridge View Drive N. Charleston, S.C. 29405 843-958-4700
ciT y of charle STon 75 Calhoun St. Charleston, S.C. 29401 843-724-3745
Seabrook Island Artist Guild supports local school art programs
BY ROD MORRIS | For The Island Connection
On Friday, January 30, the Seabrook Island Artist Guild (SIAG) presented donation checks to the principals of St. John’s High School and Haut Gap Middle School, continuing the Guild’s commitment to supporting arts education on Johns Island.
Guild members met with St. John’s High School Principal Jermaine Joyner and Art Teacher Dana Brown to present a $3,000 check designated to enhance the school’s art program. This marks the second consecutive year the Guild has provided financial support to the St. John’s High School art department; last year’s contribution totaled $1,771.
Funds were raised through SIAG member donations and a percentage of proceeds from SIAG arts and crafts shows held on Seabrook Island.
Principal Joyner emphasized the importance of the donation, noting its impact on student engagement. “As a comprehensive high school, we strive to offer students a wide range of exploratory course options,” he said. “Strengthening the art department helps keep students interested and engaged, with the hope that they will explore additional art courses.”
He added, “Students who are engaged in the arts are often more engaged in school overall. When students are doing something they enjoy, it becomes more than just a class.
Increased engagement leads to better behavior and stronger academic performance across all subjects.”
Brown shared how the donation will directly benefit students. “This funding allows me to go beyond the basics and introduce materials that encourage deeper exploration,” she said. “I’ll be able to continue purchasing clay and glazes—materials the students love working with—while also offering new opportunities such as glass for mosaics and fusing.”
Brown also plans to expand into textile arts. “I hope to purchase sewing machines so students can learn to sew and create with fabrics,” she explained. “These new materials will spark curiosity and creativity. Once students are introduced to clay, glass and textiles, many discover strengths they didn’t know they had and become excited to pursue further artistic endeavors.”
The Guild was additionally pleased to expand its support of local school art programs this year with a donation to Haut Gap Middle School. Marking the first year of impact, SIAG presented Principal Travis Benintendo with a $1,000 check to support the school’s art department. Benintendo expressed his enthusiasm and noted the meaningful difference the contribution is expected to make for students and the art program.
St. John’s Principal Jermaine Joyner and art teacher Dana Brown. Courtesy of Seabrook Island Artist Guild.
Life’s Concerto March Artist of the Month Terri Goslin-Jones
Terri Goslin-Jones, PhD, is a psychologist, educator, poet and visual artist whose work is rooted in expressive arts and a lifelong commitment to creativity as a path to personal and spiritual growth. Her artistic journey deepened through her studies in expressive arts with Natalie Rogers and continues to be informed by her background in psychology, mindfulness and poetic inquiry.
After moving to Seabrook Island in 2022, Goslin-Jones joined the Seabrook Island Artists Guild and immersed herself in monthly workshops, embracing experimentation as a central aspect of her creative process. Her visual work includes oil painting, cold wax and encaustic, often emerging from her love of photographing landscapes and writing poetry. For Goslin-Jones painting and poetry are inseparable—each informs and enriches the other, offering complementary ways of seeing, feeling and making meaning.
She is the author of Life’s Concerto: Wholeness Through Poetry and Expressive Arts, a collection of poems and artwork that celebrates life through the lens of expressive arts. The work explores paradoxes
A little luck and the right guidance can open the door to what’s next. Whether you’re envisioning a full-time residence, a private coastal escape, or an elegant pied-à-terre, finding the right property on Seabrook Island begins with insight, timing, and trusted representation.
If you are contemplating buying or selling, I would be honored to assist you.
Marjorie Stephenson
marjorie@danielravenelsir.com
and mysteries that arise across the seasons of life, engaging themes of contemplation, grief, nature and more. She is also co-author of Weaving Ourselves Whole: A Guide to Forming a Transformational Expressive Arts Circle. Goslin-Jones has participated in an expressive arts circle with five colleagues for over 15 years, exploring how artmaking fosters personal and spiritual transformation.
Professionally, the artist taught full-time in the psychology and creativity studies programs at Saybrook University in Pasadena, California. She currently works part-time supervising doctoral students in qualitative and heuristic research with a focus on the transformative effects of expressive arts and creativity. She is a Registered Expressive Arts Consultant/Educator (REACE), certified in mindfulness facilitation through UCLA and an Institute of Poetic Medicine practitioner.
Beyond the studio, her creativity is woven into family life, gardening, nature, photography and travel.
Come experience the variety and richness of Terri Goslin-Jones’ work at the reception at the Lakehouse on Tuesday, March 3 from 4:30 - 6 p.m.
Kiawah Arts, etc. holds successful luncheon, prepares for benefit
BY MARTHA ZINK | For The Island Connection
To celebrate 25 years of bringing the power of arts education to the school children of our community, Kiawah Arts, etc. is planning an evening of delicious food, live music and a thoughtfully curated silent auction featuring original artwork and unique no-art items. The Arts in Bloom Benefit will be held at the Kiawah Island River Club Ballroom on March 26 from 6 to 10 p.m. There will be a special performance of the Haut Gap Middle School Orchestra and a keynote address by Charlton Singleton of the Grammy award-winning jazz group Ranky Tanky. Tickets may be purchased at arts2.-betterworld.org/events/ arts-bloom-benefit.
**
Recently, Kiawah Arts, etc. hosted an AI expert at their February luncheon, engaging the members in a spirited discussion of Artificial Intelligence-generated art.
Dr. Marian Mazzone teaches courses on modern and contemporary art. Her research is focused on the creative use of computers by artists. AI is the science and engineering of machine learning, a useful tool for many artists, though not meant to replace the creativity of human artists. AI is a tool, not a rupture in art history.
The attendees were very engaged and asked several questions. Regarding
the protection of individual works of art, Dr. Mazzone explained that once fine artists put their work on the internet, it is fair game. An AI system can combine it with billions of other artists’ work so it cannot be claimed or proven that a specific work was copied. An artist using AI can retrieve a type of image (for instance, cats) by using specific wording. AI can then use textual matching and retrieve multiple images to generate an image. An example would be asking for “a cat, in the style of van Gogh, giving a lecture.” AI uses a discriminator to find patterns and create images until the artist is satisfied.
Here are some examples of how AI is changing the buying and selling of art. A group of French artists calling themselves
Obvious generated an AI painting titled “Portrait of Edmond de Belamy,” which sold for $432,500 at Christie’s Auction House in 2018. For his 2022–2023 installation, Unsupervised, Refick Anadol entered artwork at the Museum of Modern Art into AI, told the machine to generate new imagery and created a video which runs 24/7 at the museum. And NFTs (nonfungible tokens) were used to sell a large digital work of art by Beeple, a graphic artist who lives in the Charleston area. “Everydays: The first 5,000 days” was sold through Christie’s Auction House in 2021 for over $69 million. It was simply a spot on a blockchain bought with cryptocurrency.
Two Communities. One Harmonious Mission.
As Bishop Gadsden marks
years
Bishop Gadsden—Kiawah
Seabrook
Bishop Gadsden
Seafields by Bishop Gadsden
Pacific Legal Foundation joins legal challenge to defend state property rights
Publisher and South Carolina property owner Rom Reddy is continuing a legal fight to protect private property rights as government power increasingly encroaches on landowners across South Carolina.
The Pacific Legal Foundation has formally joined the ongoing legal challenge involving Reddy, bringing national constitutional expertise to a case that could have far-reaching implications for property rights across the state.
The case centers on whether the State of South Carolina can regulate, restrict or effectively take control of privately owned property while continuing to tax that land as private property. At issue is a system in which property owners are required to pay taxes on land they legally own, yet are denied meaningful rights to protect.
“This case is about a simple constitutional principle,” said Reddy. “If the state claims the power to control private land, it must also respect the rights that come with ownership. You cannot tax citizens as owners and then treat them as if they have no rights at all.” Reddy went on to quote the 5th amendment to the U.S. Constitution, which states “Nor shall private property be taken for public use without just compensation.”
Pacific Legal Foundation is nationally recognized for defending property rights, constitutional limits on government authority and the rights of citizens against regulatory overreach. Their involvement signals the broader constitutional importance of the case beyond a single dispute.
Reddy emphasized that the case is not about rejecting public interests or legitimate regulation, but about restoring clarity, fairness and honesty in how government exercises power.
“This is about the rule of law,” Reddy said. “Property boundaries are established, recorded and taxed by the state. When government moves regulatory lines at will and strips owners of basic rights, it undermines trust and violates constitutional protections.”
The case challenges a regulatory framework that allows the state to assert control over private property while prohibiting owners from taking reasonable steps to protect or manage their land.
“This kind of unchecked authority should concern every South Carolinian,” Reddy added. “If the government can do this to one property owner, it can happen to anyone. Constitutional limits exist for a reason.”
With Pacific Legal Foundation now involved, the case will move forward with increased legal resources and national attention. The outcome could help define the future of property rights, regulatory authority and constitutional accountability in South Carolina.
“This fight isn’t just about one property,” Reddy said. “It’s about whether citizens still have meaningful property rights in this state. I’m grateful to Pacific Legal Foundation for standing with us in defense of the Constitution. As George Washington eloquently stated, ‘Freedom and property rights go hand in hand. You cannot have one without the other.’”
AROUND THE ISLANDS
ONGOING
WHAT: Fleece+ Friday
WHERE: Beachwalker Center
WHEN: Every Friday from 10 a.m. to noon
MORE INFO: Join the Kiawah Cares Made with Love program to create handmade crafts for children, seniors, Veterans, teachers, new moms and neighbors in need. All skill levels are welcome to make no-sew fleece blankets, craft greeting cards, sew fabric totes, knit/crochet scarves and more.
WHAT: Spirit Tasting
WHERE: Kiawah Spirits, 615 Freshfields Dr.
WHEN: Every Friday and Saturday from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
MORE INFO: Stop by Kiawah Spirits for tastings of select spirits. Guests must be 21 years old to participate. While supplies last.
WHAT: Sea Island Farmers Market
WHERE: 2024 Academy Rd., Johns Island
WHEN: Every Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
MORE INFO: The Sea Island Farmers Market is a year-round delight for locals and visitors alike. This market offers a wide variety of fresh produce, artisanal foods and handmade crafts. It’s the perfect spot to start your weekend with a basket full of farm-fresh goodies and unique finds.
WHAT: Weekend Wine-Down
WHERE: Deep Water Vineyard, 6775 Bears Bluff Rd., Wadmalaw Island
WHEN: Every Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
MORE INFO: Attendees can expect tastings ($15 gets you a tasting of 6 samples of the vineyard’s wine and a souvenir stemless glass), drinks, food trucks, live music, and more.
WHAT: Southern Sips
WHERE: Dunlin Resort, 1030 Sound Drive, Johns Island
WHEN: Every Tuesday and Friday from 3:30 p.m.4:30 pm
MORE INFO: Step into the world of mixology with this Southern Sips Class, where you’ll master the art of crafting two unique cocktails using ingredients sourced directly from the resort’s farm.
WHAT: Charleston Wine + Food
WHERE: Various
WHEN: March 4 – 8
MORE INFO: The 2026 festival marks 20 years of Charleston Wine + Food, celebrating the past, present and future of Charleston’s culinary scene. Since its inception, CHSWF has welcomed more than 12,000 participants from around the world, generated over $191 million in economic impact, and contributed more than $550,000 to scholarships and charitable education causes.
WHAT: MJ The Musical
Our community calendar keeps you updated on local events. From festivals to workshops to family-friendly gatherings. Stay connected and never miss out on the excitement.
WHERE: North Charleston Performing Arts Center, 5001 Coliseum Dr., North Charleston
WHEN: March 10 - 13
MORE INFO: He is one of the greatest entertainers of all time. Now, Michael Jackson’s unique and unparalleled artistry comes to the Lowcountry in MJ, the multiple Tony Award-winning musical centered around the making of the 1992 Dangerous World Tour.
WHAT: The Charleston Festival
WHERE: Various
WHEN: March 18 – April 11
MORE INFO: Historic Charleston Foundation has celebrated houses, history, and culture through its annual spring festival since its founding in 1947 as the Festival of Houses and Gardens. As the Foundation’s longest running fundraising and educational event, the Festival has evolved into a celebration of Charleston’s history, architecture, culture, and community.
SATURDAY, FEB. 21
WHAT: Rock the Block
WHERE: Home Team BBQ, 126 Williman St., Charleston
WHEN: 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.
MORE INFO: Home Team BBQ’s Rock the Block will return for its 8th year, transforming the restaurant’s downtown location into a neighborhood street party featuring a full afternoon of live music, guest-chef bites, and beer, wine, and signature cocktails. The event benefits Hogs for the Cause and Ronald McDonald House Charities of Charleston, both of which provide direct support to local families facing pediatric cancer.
MONDAY, FEB. 23
WHAT: Piano Bar: Glenn Brown
WHERE: Palmera Dining Room, Seafields, 200 Farm Lake View Rd., Johns Island
WHEN: 5 p.m. – 7 p.m.
MORE INFO: Free admission, but tickets need to be reserved on Eventbrite.com.
TUESDAY, FEB. 24
WHAT: Lip Sync For Lungs Live Battle
WHERE: Charleston Music Hall, 37 John St., Charleston
WHEN: 7 p.m.
MORE INFO: The American Lung Association in South Carolina will host the annual Lip Sync For Lungs Live Battle. Marking its milestone 10th anniversary, this year’s event carries the theme Greatest Hits Vol. X, featuring encore-worthy performances from past battle champions alongside rising stars in what organizers describe as an energetic and crowd-pleasing showcase. Lip Sync For Lungs is a high-energy fundraising event that supports the
American Lung Association’s mission to improve lung health and prevent lung disease. Proceeds from the event benefit lung disease research, public health programs and advocacy efforts throughout South Carolina, including initiatives focused on lung cancer education and clean air.
THURSDAY, FEB. 26
WHAT Mike Super - Magic & Illusion
WHERE: West Beach Conference Center, 2 Shipwatch Rd., Kiawah Island
WHEN: 7:30 p.m. – 9 p.m.
MORE INFO: See America’s Got Talent Finalist Illusionist Mike Super Live on Stage.
SATURDAY, FEB. 28
WHAT: Outdoor Barre Workout
WHERE: 300 Farm Lake View Rd, Kiawah Island WHEN: 11:30 a.m.
MORE INFO: Join a fun outdoor barre workout for women of all ages. It’ll be a workout focused on strengthening, tightening and toning the full body while enjoying the ocean breeze and watching gators swim in the pond. Bring a mat and a set of light weights (1- 3lbs).
TUESDAY, MARCH 3
WHAT: Andy & Friends II - Chamber Trio WHERE: Seabrook Island Club, 3772 Seabrook Island Rd., Seabrook Island WHEN: 7:30 p.m.
MORE INFO: Join celebrated pianist Andy Armstrong for his new chamber series: ANDY & FRIENDS. Not only does Andy bring some of his internationally acclaimed musician friends together, but you’ll likely feel like one of Andy’s friends by the end of each performance!
THURSDAY, MARCH 5
WHAT: Kiawah Conversations: Field Trip to Charleston County’s Material Recovery Facility
WHERE: Meet in the Kiawah Town Hall parking lot at 8:45 a.m.
WHEN: 10 a.m. – noon
MORE INFO: Learn how recycled materials are handled and disposed of at Charleston County’s MRF. This center features 82,000 square feet of building space, including a multimedia education center, new recycling equipment, administrative offices and the county’s collections fleet. The plant includes optical sorting equipment and robotics, as well as fully automated scales. It has the capacity to process 25 tons of recyclables per hour. We will start in the educational center, hear what they do, see a short video and view the operations from a viewing platform. Register on Eventbrite.com
Keeper of the Wild
benefit
was a wild success
BY ELISABETH ST JOHN | For The Island Connection
Wild is beautiful! Wild oysters and a wild array of amazing prizes took a strong lead over the cold weather at the fundraiser for Keeper of the Wild Rescue and Sanctuary. Over 200 supporters came out to the Carriage House at Magnolia Plantation, dressed to combat the chill and to support the wildlife rescue organization. Over 140 items were on display for purchase, donated by local artists, generous area merchants and individuals.
Keeper of the Wild is dedicated to the preservation and protection of South Carolina’s indigenous mammals and operates with rehabbers in nine coastal counties, including the islands. Development from rural lands to an urban landscape displaces and frequently causes damage and casualties to animals whose job it is to keep the environment healthy. For example, opossums eat poisonous snakes and consume carrion, thereby reducing potentially dangerous bacterial infections. They groom constantly and don’t carry fleas, do not get rabies and are an asset to the health of any yard in which they take up residence. Lucky you if you have one living on your property!
South Carolina’s population growth has outpaced all other national states and continues to grow by almost 2% annually. This growth results in forests, farmland and open spaces being converted to housing and commercial development, threatening the wildlife habitats and the corridors of wildlife and bird migration all over the Lowcountry. Since the turn of the millennium, South Carolina has lost hundreds of acres of farmland, and more forests and open land are lost every day statewide. Consequently, native wildlife and the native plants on which they feed are under tremendous pressure.
In the circle of life, each and every species has a specific function, and no species can be eliminated without consequence to another species. Human health and survival rely on a broad population of healthy wild animals, migrating birds and native plants. You can help by volunteering, sponsoring an animal, becoming a corporate partner and donating to help wildlife rescue organizations. For more information on Keeper of the Wild, please go to keeperofthewild.org
Sewer infrastructure
Continued from page 2
the conclusion of two engineering firms retained by Kiawah that there were no technical or engineering impediments to connecting to the force main, SIUC in subsequent communications stated that if it were to consider extending wastewater service to the Kiawah municipal center, it would require that the connection be made to SIUC infrastructure in Freshfields Village, rather than to the force main running adjacent to the municipal center property. As had been made clear to SIUC, running a new force main from the municipal center property under Haulover Creek and under property not owned or controlled by Kiawah would be substantially more expensive, would not come close to meeting the Civic and Cultural Center timetable, would have a more significant environmental impact and was not dictated by engineering considerations.
IC: How does Seabrook Island benefit from the Kiawah Island Town Council complex?
Belt: The current Kiawah Town Hall is used by area community groups for meetings. Kiawah also sponsors various arts and cultural events programming, some of which take place at the Town Hall, which are attended by Seabrook and Johns Island residents, as well as Kiawah residents and visitors. The Civic and Cultural Center addition will include additional community meeting rooms and a new municipal auditorium designed to enable many more high-quality arts and cultural events programs accessible to the Sea Islands community. The plan is also to extend the leisure trail system to the municipal center complex and add nature trails throughout the property, accessible to the general public.
IC: What is TOKI willing to do to make the transaction easy on Seabrook, such as waive business license fees and franchise fees?
Belt: We have repeatedly stated that Kiawah would pay all the costs associated with the project, and we are prepared to waive business license and franchise fees.
IC: How would sewer be better for the environment?
Belt: As noted above, BCDCOG Water Management Plan encourages the use of wastewater treatment facilities rather than septic systems. Centralized wastewater facilities use advanced processes to remove contaminants and disinfect wastewater before releasing the treated effluent back into the environment, leading to better water quality in our estuarine system and a reduced risk of groundwater contamination compared to septic systems.
IC: What did your engineers say about connecting right outside of the complex? Is it too difficult to do? Why or why not?
Belt: Kiawah’s engineers have indicated that, while connecting to a force main is significantly more involved than connecting to a gravity system, including hydraulic analysis and precise pressure calculations, such connections are not uncommon. They also have advised that connecting to the adjacent force main line is more expeditious and less costly than the alternative presented by SIUC.
(Continued on page 12)
‘Speaking Truth’ a worthy way to celebrate 250 years
BY ELISABETH ST JOHN | For The Island Connection
On the brink of the 250th anniversary of our country’s constitution, the “elephant in the room” at the International African American Museum is being addressed from tail to trunk, ears and tusks included, as the focus of conversation in the Center for Family History.
Speaking Truth is an ongoing reconciliation project sponsored by the IAAM. So far, 52 testimonials have been collected, telling the true, personal stories of the impact white slavers and owners had on Black ancestry in this country. Remarkably, participants include descendants of both enslaved people and their enslavers.
Moderated by Dr. Tonya Matthews, the members-only preview featured keynote speaker Lottie Lieb Dula and co-founders of Speaking Truth Rea Bennett and Dr. Michael Zirulnik. Bennett spoke of her own family and the previously unknown fact that, in researching her own genealogy, she found her family’s wealth had been derived from slave trading. The tremendous burden on her soul of her ancestors’ actions has been lifted somewhat in work she has done and continues to do.
2:04 PM
WED MAR 4 8:39 AM, 9:05 PM 2:23 AM, 2:43 PM
THU MAR 5 9:17 AM, 9:45 PM 3:07 AM, 3:21 PM
FRI MAR 6 9:54 AM, 10:23 PM 3:49 AM, 3:56 PM
The IAAM invites conversation with anyone who would like to “transform family history into an opportunity for truth-telling, atonement and repair.“
The International African American Museum is located at 14 Wharfside Street in Charleston. Appointments for a virtual Genealogy Consultation can be booked on the website. For questions, membership, or to contact the Center of Family History, go to iaamuseum.org, or call 843-872-5352.
PRIVATE JET CHARTER FROM ATLANTIC JZI
Sewer infrastructure
Continued from page 10
IC: What are the legal issues with this?
Belt: There aren’t any legal impediments to an intergovernmental agreement among Kiawah, Seabrook and SIUC. There simply needs to be a willingness of the parties to come to a mutually acceptable agreement.
IC: What contractual issues will you pursue to get this agreement in the future?
Belt: If an agreement is not reached with SIUC to provide wastewater service to the municipal center complex, Kiawah will proceed with expanding its septic system. Unfortunately, that would be less desirable from an environmental standpoint and would reduce the area around the complex that could be used for other purposes, like parking or other facilities.
IC: What does approving this at first reading mean? What is the next step?
Belt: First reading is the first step in the legislative process of adopting or amending an ordinance. Kiawah has stated that it would move forward with the second reading if the parties are able to come to a mutually acceptable agreement.
The bottom line is that connecting to the sewer is preferable to expanding a septic system from an environmental standpoint. The project would benefit the Sea Islands community. There would be no economic impact on SIUC, Seabrook, or its residents, as Kiawah would pay the costs of the project. Beyond that, Kiawah would be willing to waive business license or franchise fees otherwise applicable to SIUC. Providing wastewater service to the Kiawah municipal center by connecting to the force main along Betsy Kerrison Parkway is technically feasible and more cost-effective than alternatives. This should have been easy in 2014, and it should be now.
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The following are questions and answers between The Island Connection and Town of Seabrook Island Mayor Bruce Kleinman and the Seabrook Island Utility Commission Chair James Ferland.
The Island Connection: Has the Town of Kiawah Island approached Seabrook Island Utility in the past about getting service? Was your response “no” because of capacity issues?
Kleinman and Ferland: The Seabrook Island Utility Commission is owned by the Town of Seabrook Island and operates a small, carefully managed wastewater system designed to serve Seabrook Island residents. The system is located among homes and marshland, and it is managed with an emphasis on reliability and long-term responsibility. SIUC has never sought to expand service beyond the Town of Seabrook Island except where it inherited obligations decades ago from a private utility (more on this below).
Recently, the Town of Kiawah Island requested that SIUC provide wastewater service to its municipal building and proposed cultural center, a facility built (or, in the case of the cultural center, to be built) by Kiawah off-island and outside Kiawah’s existing utility infrastructure. Extending service beyond a municipal utility’s boundaries raises questions of precedent, governance and long-term responsibility that cannot be addressed casually. As stated above, the mission of the SIUC is limited to serving Seabrook Island residents. And, let’s be clear, the Town of Kiawah Island chose to situate these facilities in a location where the town could not provide necessary services.
The relationship between the Town of Seabrook Island and the Seabrook Island Utility is governed by South Carolina law and town ordinances. Though the system is owned by the town, SIUC is independently governed by Commissioners elected by the citizens of the Town of Seabrook Island. The Commissioners are responsible for operating and managing the system, and the Town Council has very limited areas of authority.
IC: Is it accurate that TOSI now services MUSC, Seafields, Freshfields Village and are contracted to service the Andell property? Why can’t Seabrook Island Utility take on the Kiawah Island Town Council building?
Toast Under the Oaks returns to Johns Island for spring
Enjoy live music, tasty beverages and beautiful scenery during Toast under the Oaks at Johns Island County Park this spring. This year’s events will be held on Thursday, March 12 and Thursday, April 2, from 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. each time.
This popular happy hour get-together is held beneath the sweeping live oak trees at serene Johns Island County Park. Beer and wine are included with admission. Each event will also feature food trucks selling fare on site. On March 12, music will be provided by Krystal Halvorson, and the food trucks on site will be Butter Chicken and Pizza de Michelino. On April 2, enjoy live music from David Collins
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Kleinman and Ferland: A little history is in order. In 1996, the Town of Seabrook Island purchased a water and wastewater utility system servicing the Town of Seabrook Island from a for-profit
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Photo courtesy of CCPRC.
Toast Under the Oaks
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and food from Braised & Glazed and A-Roi Thai.
Tickets are $20 per person in advance or $25 per person at the event and include beer, wine and live music. To purchase tickets, visit CharlestonCountyParks.com, or call 843-795-4386.
Valid ID must be presented for alcohol, and outside alcohol is prohibited. Ages 20 and under are welcome with a paid chaperone. Dogs are welcome but must remain leashed at the event. Guests are encouraged to bring their own tables and chairs.
Johns Island County Park is located at 2662 Mullet Hall Road just off River Road. The park is owned and operated by the Charleston County Park and Recreation Commission and features miles of scenic trails for pedestrian and equestrian use, as well as an archery range and an off-leash dog park.
For more information on Toast Under the Oaks or to purchase tickets for this event, visit www.ccprc.com/1810/Festivals-Events. This event is brought to you by your Charleston County Parks.
Sewer infrastructure
company. In connection with that acquisition, the Town assumed pre-existing obligations of the seller to provide service to certain enumerated extra-territorial properties. Every customer of the Seabrook Island Utility Commission is either within the town limits or in one of the properties included in the transaction 30 years ago.
IC: Are you willing to connect the Kiawah Island Town Council to sewer but asking them to connect at Freshfields instead of getting a connection right outside the complex? Why can’t they do the connection right outside of the complex?
Kleinman and Ferland: When Kiawah first requested this service approximately one year ago, SIUC initially declined. However, when Kiawah renewed its request several months ago, given the nature of the proposed facility, SIUC agreed to consider its request in good faith and explore options jointly with the Town of Kiawah Island. Both the Utility Commission and the Town of Seabrook Island believe most challenges can be resolved through good faith conversations and a cooperative process. In this case, that approach respects the responsibilities of both communities and will lead to better outcomes.
Unfortunately, recent actions by the Town Council of Kiawah Island have made that cooperative process considerably more challenging. After a meeting between SIUC and Kiawah, and without the knowledge of SIUC or the Town of Seabrook Island, Kiawah passed an Ordinance designed to force SIUC to connect their proposed facility to Seabrook’s system. Specifically, the Ordinance purports to require SIUC to provide sewer service to any property owner in Kiawah, including, but not limited to, properties which are in the future annexed by Kiawah, solely by virtue of the fact that SIUC currently provides service to those properties situated within Kiawah’s municipal limits that the 1996 agreement required them to serve i.e., Freshfields, Seafields and
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February 28, 2026 I 8 AM - 3 PM I Kiawah
Island Town Hall
This one-of-a-kind shopping experience brings neighbors, friends, and visitors together for a fun-filled day of discovery, connection, and giving back.
Browse an ever-changing assortment of thoughtfully donated treasures, including:
Décor galore
Kitchen must-haves & tablescape treasures
Outdoor adventure finds
Family game night fun
Fabulous accessories
And plenty more to explore!
Back again this year, Coastal Cowgirl food truck will be on site, serving up coffee and baked goods to keep you energized and ready to keep tagging along throughout the sale.
Every purchase supports the Conservancy’s mission of preserving the places we love.
So bring your friends and your sense of curiosity because you never know what you will find at The Tag!
Open to the public. Cash and credit cards accpted. No Checks. All sales final.
Share. Support.
Sewer infrastructure
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MUSC. Also, it purports to require SIUC, itself a municipal agency of Seabrook Island, to enter a Franchise Agreement with Kiawah and presumably pay a franchise fee to Kiawah (which would be passed through to the Kiawah-based customers of SIUC) and also a so-called operating agreement.
These three provisions would give the Town of Kiawah Island more control of the Seabrook Island Utility Commission than the Town of Seabrook Island, the owner of the system. As stated above, the Commissioners are responsible for the operation and management, not the Town Council of Seabrook Island. And certainly not the Town Council of Kiawah. We believe these provisions are invalid and unenforceable. As you might expect, the Town of Kiawah’s attempt to force SIUC to provide wastewater service outside municipal boundaries in this manner has shifted the discussion away from collaboration. That is not a productive framework for addressing complex infrastructure decisions.
Where the connection will be established, if or when the parties reach an agreement, will be determined by the parties and their respective engineers. There are multiple alternatives that could be considered at that time.
IC: What are the legal issues with this? The
Kiawah Island Town Attorney had to take himself (and the firm) off commenting on this issue. Kleinman and Ferland: This is not about personalities or politics. It is about the process. One municipality should not force another to provide service through an invalid, one-sided action. Public utilities are governed by law, precedent and careful planning, not by pressure.
SIUC’s responsibility is first and foremost to Seabrook Island residents. That responsibility includes protecting the integrity of our system, safeguarding our environment and ensuring that decisions made today do not create unintended consequences tomorrow. Precedent matters. Once a utility is forced to extend service beyond its intended boundaries, the implications can be far-reaching.
Environmental stewardship is also a critical consideration. Wastewater infrastructure decisions in the Lowcountry have lasting impacts on marshes, waterways and surrounding communities. Those impacts deserve thoughtful analysis, not rushed conclusions.
SIUC and the Town of Seabrook Island are not opposed to dis-
cussion. We are opposed to being compelled to act outside an appropriate legal and cooperative framework. We believe respectful and fair dialogue, conducted without pressure and without bullying, is the best path forward.
Our hope is that all parties will return to a process grounded in cooperation and mutual respect. That approach serves not only the Towns of Seabrook and Kiawah but the broader community we all share.
For more information, listen to the February 3, 2026 Town of Kiawah Island Town Council meeting on YouTube.
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