Mayoral Candidates Weigh In on Key Issues Facing Isle of Palms
The Island Eye News asked the three candidates for mayor of Isle of Palms to share their opinions on several questions we believe are important to island residents. We asked six total questions and will publish their answers in pairs over multiple issues. You can find their responses to the first two questions in the Oct. 3 issue of the Island Eye News or online.
Here are the answers they provided for the second set of questions, presented in reverse order from the last issue. The Oct. 31 issue will feature responses in random order.
3. Do you think the current rules and regulations regarding short-term rentals on Isle of Palms effectively balance the rights of short-term rental owners with the quality of life for all island residents?
If not, what would you do to change the current system?
JON REGAN WALTERS
The short-term rental situation is largely settled for now, but it continues to resurface because it is deeply personal to many residents. I understand both sides, since short-term rentals are an important part of our local economy, yet preserving the residential character of our island is equally vital. What concerns me most are the tear-downs that are changing the look and feel of the Isle of Palms. In just the past year, we have lost several smaller, character-filled homes along Cameron Boulevard, replaced by oversized, cookie-cutter houses built for short-term rentals. They may be profitable, but they are erasing the unique “Mayberry with
a Beach” charm that defined the island I grew up on, and they are pricing young families out of our community.
I believe short-term rental licenses should be able to transfer to heirs, but a reasonable cap makes sense to maintain balance. When the referendum came up a few years ago, both sides dug in, and no one was willing to compromise. As mayor, I will encourage both sides to come back to the table and find common ground. A healthy community requires balance, civility, and compromise, where no one gets everything they want, but everyone gets a fair deal.
For transparency, the only short-term rental I personally own is in Pickens County, where this is not an issue.
SCOTT PIERCE
Property rights are fundamental and apply equally to all property owners on the Isle of Palms—whether they are full-time residents, second-home owners, or short-term rental operators. No one group is entitled to special treatment. The challenge we continually face is how to cohabitate respectfully, ensuring that every property can be enjoyed without disrupting neighbors.
Our current short-term rental rules provide a framework that the majority of owner-operators and managers abide by diligently. We should always ensure they fully achieve the balance between property rights and quality of life. Residents have an expectation of quiet enjoyment of their homes, and that must be protected with the same vigor with which we recognize the rights of those who own and operate rentals.
My commitment is to ensure the system supports this balance. That means:
• Enforcing existing rules consistently — so that well-run, non-intrusive rentals continue without issue, while disruptive operations are held accountable.
• Adopting measurable standards — such as reasonable quiet hours and enforcement of occupancy limits that align with practices in other coastal communities and provide clear expectations for owners, renters, and residents alike.
• Listening to both residents and rental owners — to ensure that policies are fair, transparent, and sustainable for the long term.
The goal is not to pit one group against another but to work together to ensure that everyone’s property rights are respected. All policies should be driven by the objective of keeping the Isle of Palms a livable, safe, family-friendly, and welcoming community with a high quality of life.
PHILLIP POUNDS (INCUMBENT)
Our city has been a leader in managing and balancing the demands of being a vacation destination. IOP was one of the first municipalities to require business licenses for short-term rentals. We instituted occupancy limits for people and vehicles, limited the square footage of houses, and set requirements for pervious surfaces and lot coverage—all aimed at maintaining a balance for residents and rental owners.
Our residents voted in a recent referendum not to cap short-term rentals. Leading up to the vote, we conducted numerous resident listening sessions. As a result, where residents were (Continued on page 2
Sullivan’s Island Candidates Share Views on Key Community Issues
The Island Eye News asked the one candidate for mayor and the five candidates running for three open seats on the Sullivan’s Island Town Council to share their opinions on several questions we believe are important to island residents. We asked six total questions and will publish their answers in pairs over multiple issues. You can find their responses to the first two questions in the Oct. 3 issue of the Island Eye News or online.
Here are the answers they provided for the second set of questions, organized by the seat they’re seeking and in reverse order from the last issue. The Oct. 31 issue will feature responses in random order.
3. Do you think the government of Sullivan’s Island could be more transparent? If so, what would you do to make it more transparent?
MAYOR PATRICK O’NEIL (INCUMBENT)
Transparency is a hallmark of the town government under our current council.
1. We recently created an online Transparency Center for user-friendly public access to capital and operating budgets, with capabilities for realtime, project-specific, and other financial reporting (https://bit.ly/SITownFinances).
2. All council workshops and regular meetings are live-streamed and archived for later viewing. PDF meeting packets are posted online prior to each meeting. Meetings of council committees, the Planning Commission, Design Review Board, Board of Zoning Appeals, and Tree Commission are recorded and placed online for on-demand viewing. Recently, we have added closed captioning for new recordings. Recordings of these
meetings go back several years—so you can cancel Netflix and binge-watch your town government at work!
3. We have numerous communication channels to keep citizens informed: the Everbridge system for emergency information, TOSI Talks for other notifications, the town newsletter, our newly active Instagram account (accessible via linktr.ee/sullivansisland), and my monthly mayor’s column in this paper.
4. True transparency requires two-way communication. We encourage citizen input via email, TOSI Talks, and the designated public comment period during council meetings. Phone numbers for the mayor and council members are always readily available.
5. There is always room for improvement. Our staff constantly review transparency measures used by other municipalities to identify methods we can adopt.
(Continued
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IOP Mayor Candidate Answers
Continued from page 1
asking for more enforcement of existing ordinances, we hired two full-time code enforcement officers focused on livability issues, a full-time short-term rental coordinator to ensure compliance with licenses and revenue requirements, and implemented new rental tracking software to identify properties not in compliance.
Ongoing, our staff prepares a monthly report detailing the number of rental licenses, the breakdown between full- and part-time residents, the total number of housing units by type, and the number of properties with and without a license. Our police also prepare a monthly report detailing livability concerns broken down by residents and renters. These reports allow us to ensure we have a handle on activity in our community. The number of active rental licenses has been very consistent over the years. My stance on this topic has been clear: monitor monthly reports, identify trends inconsistent with our historical balance of one-third full-time residents, onethird second homes, and one-third rental properties, and continue a strong focus on enforcement of our rules.
However, our enforcement staff cannot be everywhere at once—we need residents’ help. If you have a rental property nearby that you think is in violation of existing rules, please call the police non-emergency number and ask for help. If you know the rental management company, call them as well. I can assure you they want to be good representatives for their owners and are fully aware of the penalties involved. It takes all of us to ensure we maintain a balanced, livable community.
4. Do you agree with IOP’s current noise ordinance? If not, how would you change it?
JON REGAN WALTERS
Overall, I believe the current noise ordinance works well. However, I would like to see it evolve with the times, particularly by requiring commercial landscaping companies to transition from gas-powered to quieter electric equipment within one year. Homeowners would be exempt, but this small change could make a big difference in reducing unnecessary noise across the island.
The real issue is not the numbers; it is consistency and courtesy. Residents should not be woken by weed-whackers before sunrise, and construction should not run past curfew. As mayor, I will promote fair, courteous enforcement focused on respect, balance, and protecting the peaceful lifestyle that makes the Isle of Palms home.
As someone who lives on Palm Boulevard, I can also
say there is nothing more frustrating than a car alarm blaring all day while a day-tripper enjoys a peaceful day at the beach. Courtesy and common sense go a long way. We can maintain a quiet, respectful environment not just through enforcement, but through cooperation and community awareness.
SCOTT PIERCE
Every homeowner should experience quiet enjoyment of their home and a night’s sleep without disruption. On the Isle of Palms, that expectation has come under pressure because the current noise ordinance is vague and difficult to enforce. It relies on subjective standards, which puts our police officers in a tough spot and often leaves residents and rental owners frustrated.
Other nearby municipalities and coastal communities have already addressed this issue successfully with objective decibel limits and defined quiet hours to protect residential neighborhoods while giving businesses clear rules to follow. These standards not only hold up legally but also make enforcement fair, consistent, and predictable. Our Police Department requested a noise ordinance that is enforceable and less subjective. Without objective standards, enforcement becomes a judgment call, putting personnel in a challenging position. They should have the tools to do the job effectively.
I support the current efforts of the Public Safety Committee, which is working to bring the same clarity to the Isle of Palms by updating the ordinance to include specific decibel thresholds for nighttime, along with established quiet hours across the island. This balanced approach protects residents’ quality of life, gives businesses certainty, and equips law enforcement with the standards they need to enforce the law consistently and fairly.
PHILLIP POUNDS (INCUMBENT)
Yes, I agree with it because it allows our police staff to use discretion and apply common sense to situations they are called to manage. With these types of ordinances, we need to be less prescriptive. Adding new ordinances or tweaking existing ones aimed at modifying people’s behavior can be difficult to enforce and can start to make local government feel like a homeowners association with a litany of rules and regulations.
City Council reviews a monthly report from our police department detailing livability concerns, including noise. These reports currently reflect generally positive livability conditions in our community.
JON REGAN WALTERS FOR IOP MAYOR Experience That Matters
Principled Leadership
30+ years of decorated U.S. Army service, including multiple tours overseas in Bosnia, Iraq, and Afghanistan.
Retired Colonel, Civil Affairs, having worked with Provisional Governors, local mayors, the United Nations, and international leaders.
Earned the Legion of Merit and Bronze Star Medal for leadership and service. Recognized at the highest levels of the US Army for integrity, performance and mission success.
Community Commitment
Lifelong Isle of Palms resident (55+ years)
Commercial real estate professional responsible for the developments of the Wando Crossing shopping center and the East Cooper County Service Center in Mount Pleasant. Advocates for RESIDENTS FIRST: balanced development, conservation, and transparent city government.
Protecting Our Island
Not a politician, your neighbor. A public servant with real world leadership experience.
Dedicated to protecting our beaches, neighborhoods, and quality of life. “Mayberry by the Beach”
Bringing the same dedication that served our nation, now serving our island.
jonregan@WaltersForIOP.com
New Solutions Proposed for Isle of Palms Beach Erosion
By Nicole Seitz
Alternative solutions to Isle of Palms’ beach erosion issues were presented at a Beach Management Ad Hoc Committee meeting on Oct. 10. Chris Creed, P.E., a coastal engineer with Foth | Olsen, shared the firm’s findings with the committee.
Foth | Olsen is a coastal and marine engineering firm with more than four decades of experience delivering shoreline and resilience projects across the southeastern United States and other coastal regions worldwide. The City of Isle of Palms, which has been working with another engineering firm, asked Foth | Olsen for a second opinion. Creed has worked on Hilton Head Island’s beach management plans for three decades.
Creed said there are two major areas of Isle of Palms beach erosion that need focus — the north end near Dewees Inlet and the south end at Breach Inlet. Adding sand to the beaches through nourishment cycles has not been enough. To create a long-term plan that successfully reduces the amount of sand needed for future renourishment, the city should take a more proactive approach instead of simply reacting to erosion events.
North End Issues and Solutions
The north end of the island near Dewees has shoal-shifting events that negatively affect the coastline. Among Creed’s recommendations, his primary focus for this area is a proposed “sand trap” shoal management plan. In this plan, the sand shoal that moves in naturally would be dredged — not deeply, but enough to level out the seabed. The dredged sand would then be used for local beach nourishment, and the offshore “sand trap” would allow another shoal to move in. When it does, the process would be repeated, providing a sustainable and local source of sand.
“Let’s address the problem before it gets to you,” Creed said. “Is there a way we can manage these events away from your shoreline so that you eliminate the localized problem as the shoal approaches, but also provide a sand source?”
Creed believes the shoal events can be mitigated before they become a problem. This “sand trap” mitigation plan — a shallow-water-based dredge — would require further studies before moving forward. However, the dredging could take place during the city’s next beach renourishment project in the next year or so. Although Creed admitted the plan is conceptual, he said “the approach is sound.”
While the “sand trap” plan would be more proactive, Creed also offered an alternative that would “establish a line of defense.” He suggested solid structures about 100 feet in length, called breakwaters, that would run parallel to the shoreline. Creed said this technique has been successful on many shorelines and shared images of Port Royal Sound on Hilton Head Island, where the breakwater solution has led to beach growth over time.
South End Issues and Solutions
Creed said the south end of Isle of Palms experienced long-term accretion of sand until 2010–11. At that point, the area began to erode, and the rate of erosion has accelerated recently. He added that the city’s previous strategy — hoping the beach would naturally return to its original condition — was unlikely and overly optimistic.
To restore the beach to historical conditions and manage the current sand loss rate, Creed recommended a tandem approach using a terminal groin and detached breakwater. He shared an example of a similar successful project on the south side of Amelia Island, Florida.
According to Creed, aerial images indicate a change in the tidal prism — the amount of water that flows in and out of an inlet during a tidal cycle — near the Intracoastal Waterway and Breach Inlet. Creed believes an increased inlet prism may be contributing to the sand loss and changes at Breach Inlet. More studies are needed to confirm these findings.
Conclusion and Challenges
Creed said sand placement alone is not an effective long-term strategy. The city could reduce the cost of sand over time by
Isle of Palms City Council Candidates Respond to Questionnaire
The Island Eye News asked the eight candidates for four open seats on the Isle of Palms City Council to share their opinions on several questions we believe are important to island residents. We asked six total questions and will publish their answers in pairs over multiple issues. You can find their responses to the first two questions in the Oct. 3 issue of the Island Eye News or online.
Here are the answers they provided for the second set of questions, presented in reverse order from the last issue. The Oct. 31 issue will feature responses in random order.
3. Do you think the current rules and regulations regarding short-term rentals on Isle of Palms effectively balance the rights of shortterm rental owners with the quality of life for all island residents?
If not, what would you do to change the current system?
ANDREW J. VEGA
This is a curious way to ask this question. Not all island residents are property owners; some citizens who have the right to vote long-term rent the property in which they reside. The Isle of Palms also has full-time residents who short-term rent their property within the limits set to maintain their residency status.
That being said, the Isle of Palms does not need to change the rules regarding short-term rentals or impose a limit or cap on them. The market is driving the demand and makeup of the island, and the rules should remain the same for everyone.
KRISTA SWINGLE
I support property rights and the outcome of the referendum, reflecting the voice of the majority. Rentals have always been a part of our community. They help keep our taxes low while funding the amenities that the community and our families enjoy.
It is critical that enforcement is strong and the city ensures compliance. I believe all property owners have a responsibility to respect the community and their neighbors. The city should continue monitoring active rental license numbers, as it does monthly, and if any significant changes occur, the policy can be re-evaluated at that time.
BEV MILLER
This question is difficult to answer because the rules, as written, do not truly address “rights” for short-term rental owners. Operating a business out of a home is not a property right. Owning a home gives you the right to live there and enjoy it, but it does not automatically give you the right to run a commercial enterprise from it. A shortterm rental is a business. When that business brings noise, traffic, or a steady flow of unfamiliar guests into a neighborhood, it affects every nearby homeowner’s right to peace, safety, and enjoyment of their property.
Property rights are not absolute; they exist within a legal framework meant to protect the broader community. Cities use ordinances—like zoning, licensing, and safety rules—to ensure one person’s profit does not come at the expense of
their neighbors’ quality of life. I say this because I believe a business license is a privilege, not a right.
As written, our current Article 9 rules focus narrowly on occupancy limits, parking, and signage. They do not adequately consider land use or neighborhood compatibility. I believe the city should move short-term rental licensing under zoning. In practical terms, this means short-term rentals in commercial areas could be licensed more easily because that use aligns with the surrounding zoning. In residential zones, an owner seeking a short-term rental license would need to apply through the zoning process and request an exception. This is the same process for any business seeking to operate in a residential zone.
That approach would ensure fairness, transparency, and local control—protecting both homeowners’ rights and the character of our residential community.
ZACH LARY
We should always be looking for ways to improve. We can’t be complacent when it comes to the quality of life for our residents.
Overall, Isle of Palms residents want mostly the same things when it comes to quality of life. We want our families to be safe, our neighborhoods clean, and to relax in the comfort and quiet of our homes at the end of a long day. The extent to which we feel these needs are met is fairly subjective. We are all at different points in our lives, with different situations at home and different preferences. It is important to listen to all viewpoints and enact solutions that (Continued on page 10
Laura Schroeder
should listen . For Sullivan’s Island TownCouncil
Because
leadership
•Four years of closed doors.
•Four years of questions without answers.
•Four years of wasteful, reckless spending.
•Four years of the same few voices deciding for everyone else.
I’ve spent 5 years on the Planning Commission working with residents–not over them. It’s time for transparency, accountability, and real dialogue.
IOP City Council Candidate Answers
Continued from page 7
make a meaningful impact for the better. We are a small enough community that we can examine issues on a case-by-case basis. We don’t need major reform to address every issue, nor does this need to be as divisive as it has become.
Overall, I think as a community we have something very special and successful. Like any organization that goes through periods of growth, periodic adjustments are necessary. Our enforcement of rules and regulations can be more effective and certainly more proactive. We could be a little more stringent with penalties for certain violations that cause the most negative impact on residents. Our system for reporting violations and addressing them in a timely manner also needs modernization. We can achieve the outcomes and balance we are looking for without transforming our island as we’ve always known it.
LARRY KRAMER
I do not support caps on short-term rentals because they infringe on fundamental property rights. Many families on the Isle of Palms depend on responsible rental income to maintain their homes, and restrictive caps could unfairly reduce property values. Instead, I believe our community should continue focusing on strong enforcement of existing rental rules that address issues like occupancy limits, trash management, and parking. These tools, if consistently applied, can ensure harmony between rental owners and full-time residents without taking away property owners’ rights. Improvements could include more consistent
enforcement, transparent reporting, and better communication between the city, rental companies, and residents.
Specifically, comparisons with other towns illustrate the challenges of caps:
• Folly Beach recently adopted a cap of 800 short-term rental licenses for full-time (non-owner-occupied) rentals.
• The cap has been controversial: some argue it is essential to preserve community character; others argue it restricts property rights and could stifle tourism revenue.
• Recent publications have indicated a steep decline in Folly Beach property values after the cap was adopted.
• Sullivan’s Island, in contrast, prohibits vacation rentals under 30 days entirely, except for a few “grandfathered” properties.
• This is an extreme restriction. While it strongly favors neighborhood tranquility, it also severely limits property owners’ flexibility and income potential.
• Prohibition, in my opinion, is a blunt instrument and tends to generate legal, political, and equity challenges.
• There is also state-level pushback: proposed legislation in South Carolina would penalize municipalities that ban short-term rentals by limiting their property tax revenue or state aid.
The experience elsewhere shows that caps and bans are politically and legally problematic, carry economic risk, and are often a response to gaps in enforcement rather than a substitute for it. A well-enforced, transparent approach without caps— focused on executing current ordinances—respects property owners while protecting neighbors.
DAVID COHEN
I don’t think this would be such a contentious issue at every election if the answer were simply yes, so I do believe there can be some improvements to the current rules, regulations, and enforcement practices.
Before addressing the second part of the question, I want to state that, if elected, one of my core governing values is that the job of government is not only to enforce the will of the majority but also to protect the rights of the minority. Property owners should have the right to rent their property as long as it does not negatively impact their neighbors’ expectation of a reasonable quality of life.
“Reasonable quality of life” is a subjective term. It is not realistic to expect the same quality of life on the Isle of Palms as you would in a gated retirement community. IOP has a long history as a vacation destination, which gives the island its unique character and quality of life. We enjoy a high level of city services—police, fire, recreation, and public works—at a lower tax rate because of the vacation industry.
It is reasonable to expect a neighboring shortterm rental to function as a single-family home in a residential neighborhood and not cause undue disruptions. I believe a large majority of short-term rental owners manage their properties responsibly, which brings me to my second core value: government should not penalize the majority for the actions of a few.
Several months ago, there were discussions about the number of infractions that would prompt revocation of a short-term rental license. I would like to see the three-strikes concept implemented. While a rental would not be shut down after three strikes, the
(Continued on page 12)
AROUND THE ISLANDS
ONGOING
WHAT: Charleston City Market Night Market
WHERE: Charleston City Market
WHEN: Each Friday and Saturday night, 6:30 p.m.10:30 p.m., from March – Dec.
MORE INFO: The Night Market is located between Church Street and East Bay Street. It provides the opportunity to discover quality, unique, local and handcrafted items.
WHAT: Mount Pleasant Makers Mart
WHERE: Park West Recreation Complex, 1251 Park W Blvd., Mt. Pleasant
WHEN: Every Friday from 3:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. from May through Oct.
MORE INFO: The Mount Pleasant Recreation Department Community Affairs & Marketing (CAM) Division is working with local event planner Marianne Stavale Benkoski to organize this new weekly market. The market will feature a diverse selection of vendors offering a wide range of goods, including fresh, locally sourced farm products, prepared foods, and a variety of unique handcrafted items.
WHAT: Sullivan’s Island Run Club
WHERE: Mex 1 Sullivan’s Island, 2205 Middle St. WHEN: Every Monday at 6 p.m.
MORE INFO: Come out and join the SI Run Club every Monday! All paces are welcome as we enjoy 1-3 mile scenic historic routes along the beautiful shoreline. After the run, we’ll gather back at Mex 1 to celebrate with fun drink specials.
WHAT: The Fall Tours of Architecture, History, and Gardens
WHERE: Various WHEN: Oct. 1 - Oct. 31
MORE INFO: Now in its 49th year, the Preservation Society of Charleston’s signature Fall Tours are specially designed to showcase Charleston’s unique cultural and architectural heritage. Enjoy walking tours, house and garden tours, or in-depth tours of neighborhoods and residences all throughout the city. Visit preservationsociety.org/events-tours/ for more info.
WHAT: Boone Hall Pumpkin Patch
WHERE: Boone Hall Plantation & Gardens, 1235 Long Point Rd., Mt. Pleasant
WHEN: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on select days through Oct. 26
MORE INFO: Enjoy a Corn Maze, family-friendly Halloween tractor tour, performances by Circus Incredible, the world-famous Flying Wallendas family, Agri-Golf’s LED 9-hole mini-golf course, Doc’s Variety and Magic Show, a Petting Zoo, Pig Races, giant inflatables, a live interactive honeybee exhibit, food vendors, rubber duck races, and of course, there will be pumpkins for sale by the pound from our pumpkin patch area. Visit boonehallplantation.com for more info.
WHAT: Boone Hall Fright Nights
WHERE: Boone Hall Plantation & Gardens, 1235 Long Point Rd, Mt. Pleasant
WHEN: Various days and times through Nov. 1
MORE INFO: The attractions at Boone Hall Fright Nights are designed to frighten and to entertain. Guests will react differently to the various creatures and special effects contained within three different attractions. This is not recommended for guests under the age of 12 or those who do not like being scared. Children under the age of 12 MUST be accompanied by a ticketed adult through the attractions. Children under the age of 6 will not be admitted to the event for safety reasons. Visit boonehallfrightnights.com for more info.
FRIDAY, OCT. 17
WHAT: SC Aquarium Waterway Cleanup with Lowcountry Boil on Capers Island
WHERE: Isle of Palms Marina
WHEN: 2 p.m.
MORE INFO: Join Barrier Island EcoTours on a
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.
waterway cleanup, with all proceeds supporting the South Carolina Aquarium’s conservation work. Set sail from Isle of Palms Marina for a guided boat ride to Capers Island, where a naturalist will share insights into the local ecosystem. After a shell bank and marsh cleanup, unwind with a beachside Lowcountry boil as the sun sets over the salt marsh.
SATURDAY, OCT. 18
WHAT: Trick or Treat on the Yorktown WHERE: Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum, 40 Patriots Point Rd., Mt. Pleasant WHEN: 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m.
MORE INFO: Candy Stations, Costume Contests, Halloween Activities, Food Trucks and more.
WHAT: The War & Treaty on the NÜTRL Beach Stage WHERE: The Windjammer, 1008 Ocean Blvd., Isle of Palms
WHEN: Doors at 6 p.m.
MORE INFO: Founded in 2014 by the husbandand-wife duo Michael Trotter Jr. and Tanya Trotter, The War And Treaty has emerged as one of the most electrifying new acts in American music. They were nominated for the Best New Artist and Best American Roots Song at the 2024 GRAMMY Awards, and have also been nominated for Duo of the Year at the CMA Awards two years in a row and for Vocal Duo of the Year at the ACM Awards.
WHAT: Detroit City FC vs. Charleston Battery WHERE: Patriots Point Soccer Stadium, 85 Patriots Point Rd., Mt. Pleasant WHEN: 7:30 p.m.
MORE INFO: Catch the Charleston Battery in action against the Detroit City FC. Tickets available at charlestonbattery.com/tickets.
WHAT: Grayson Little on the inside stage
WHERE: The Windjammer, 1008 Ocean Blvd., Isle of Palms
WHEN: Doors at 9 p.m.
MORE INFO: Originating from the heart of Charleston, Grayson Little effortlessly blends elements of country, southern rock, and soul to craft an unforgettable musical experience.
TUESDAY, OCT. 21
WHAT: An Evening with Reese Witherspoon & Harlan Coben
WHERE: Gaillard Center, 95 Calhoun St., Charleston WHEN: 7 p.m.
MORE INFO: Join two titans of storytelling—Academy Award-winning actress, producer, and New York Times bestselling author Reese Witherspoon and #1 global suspense phenomenon Harlan Coben—for a special event with Charleston Literary Festival to celebrate the publication of their gripping new thriller, Gone Before Goodbye.
WEDNESDAY, OCT. 22
WHAT: IOP Fall Speaker Series: Snakes, Lizards, Turtles, Alligators and More
WHERE: Isle of Palms Recreation Center, 24 28th Ave. WHEN: 5 p.m.
MORE INFO: The evening’s topic will be “Snakes, Lizards, Turtles, Alligators and More” and will be presented by Parker Gibbons, Barrier Island Eco Tours
THURSDAY, OCT. 23
WHAT: Live Under The Oaks
WHERE: Mount Pleasant Towne Centre, 1218 Belk Dr. WHEN: 6 p.m.
MORE INFO: Mount Pleasant Towne Centre’s free outdoor concert series will feature Groove Kitty, a local band that covers hits from the 80s, 90s, 2000s and today. Plus, the Big Shrimpin’ food truck will be on site.
WHAT: IOP Firefighter Appreciation Night
WHERE: Islander 71 Fish House and Raw Bar, 80 41st Ave., Isle of Palms
WHEN: 6 p.m.
MORE INFO: The event offers a vibrant blend of family-friendly activities, live music, delicious food, and breathtaking views. Kids can enjoy exploring a real firetruck, complete with fun stickers and plastic fire hats, while adults sip the Mayor’s Margarita and other specialty drinks prepared by a guest-bartending Isle of Palms Mayor. Attendees of all ages can enjoy face painting, live music, and a picturesque autumn sunset over the Intracoastal. All proceeds from specialty drinks and donations go directly to the LENS Foundation, supporting our first responders and their families.
FRIDAY, OCT. 24
WHAT: Old Soul on the Inside stage
WHERE: The Windjammer, 1008 Ocean Blvd., Isle of Palms
WHEN: Doors at 9 p.m.
MORE INFO: OldSoul is a Rock and Roll project featuring members Tristan Lamunion (vocals/guitar), Toni Josafat (vocals), Ryan Frankett (vocals/bass), and Joshua Jarman (drums). This high energy 4 piece group took off just a week after starting and has been playing shows every single week since early 2021. From playing their originals to rocking your favorite covers, you will never be disappointed with this band.
SATURDAY, OCT. 25
WHAT: Birmingham Legion FC vs. Charleston Battery
WHERE: Patriots Point Soccer Stadium, 85 Patriots Point Rd., Mt. Pleasant WHEN: 5 p.m.
MORE INFO: Catch the Charleston Battery in action against the Birmingham Legion FC. Tickets available at charlestonbattery.com/tickets.
WHAT: Frightmare by the Sea
WHERE: Wild Dunes Resort
WHEN: 6 p.m. - 8 p.m.
MORE INFO: A spooktacular evening where the Wild Dunes Resort’s plaza will transform into a festive hub of trick-or-treating excitement. Each outlet/participating resort department will be adorned with spooky decorations and will have delicious treats ready for eager trick-or-treaters of all ages. As dusk settles, there will be a costume contest (ages 12 and under). Show off your most creative, scary, or funny costumes for a chance to win exciting prizes. A lively DJ will set the mood with haunting tunes throughout the event. This is event is free admission.
WHAT: Sweat on the Ship
WHERE: Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum, 40 Patriots Point Rd., Mt. Pleasant WHEN: 6 p.m.
MORE INFO: Get ready to break a sweat aboard the legendary USS Yorktown! Enjoy a heart-pumping, full-body workout led by experienced trainers. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or just looking for a fun way to move, this event is for all fitness levels.
MONDAY, OCT. 27
WHAT: IOP Fall Speaker Series: Native Americans of the South Carolina Lowcountry
WHERE: Isle of Palms Recreation Center, 24 28th Ave. WHEN: 5 p.m.
MORE INFO: The event will be held with Barrier Island Eco Tours
IOP City Council Candidate Answers
Continued from page 10
owner would need to demonstrate that reasonable measures were taken to prevent the infractions to retain their license. After three strikes, the owner should appear before a short-term rental review board comprised of their peers—licensed property managers—who would determine the appropriate actions.
KATIE MIARS (INCUMBENT)
I respect the people’s vote in the referendum, but we still have work to do regarding short-term rentals to preserve our community. I have neighbors who are constantly upset by the short-term rental next door. The rental house has loud parties that last long into the night, lights that shine into their home, and other disturbing behavior. I also recently spoke to a short-term rental manager who prides himself on ensuring these situations do not happen at his properties.
We need better regulations—not for the good managers and responsible guests, but for those who are not. Without sound, enforceable rules, both residents’ quality of life and guests’ vacation experiences will suffer.
A few months ago, City Council revoked the license of a short-term rental based on violations of the limit on cars per bedroom. This is the only truly enforceable regulation we currently have. Residents who testified at the revocation hearing also complained about noise and light, but those issues were not considered because no citations had been issued.
Some say short-term rentals are no different
from full-time residents. This is simply untrue. The code allows for penalties for nuisances not to exceed $500, but each day of such a violation is a separate offense. Therefore, a resident could be fined $182,500 in one year, while a short-term guest could only be charged for the number of days they were present.
JOHN BOGOSIAN (INCUMBENT)
The Isle of Palms has ordinances and rules on short-term rentals and livability intended to balance residents’ quality of life with property owners’ rights. Owners with a short-term rental license can responsibly rent their homes, while residents deserve peace, safety, and livability in our neighborhoods.
Local government’s role is to protect property rights while ensuring that one owner’s rights do not infringe on the rights of others or the well-being of the island as a whole. This includes zoning, noise ordinances, and rental regulations. Repeated resident surveys and listening sessions, along with our adopted Strategic Plan, have made it clear that the community wants stronger enforcement of livability standards.
To achieve balance, I support:
• Clear, enforceable standards – Noise, trash, parking, and occupancy limits must be measurable and consistently enforced.
• Protecting neighborhood character – Engage rental managers to ensure rentals integrate seamlessly into residential neighborhoods, helping keep the Isle of Palms a family-friendly community.
• Better enforcement tools – Provide police and code enforcement with ordinances they can actually enforce, including a practical noise ordi-
nance with decibel standards.
• Promote balance – Brand the Isle of Palms as a family-friendly destination, where residents, businesses, and visitors can all enjoy a balanced community.
4. Do you agree with IOP’s current noise ordinance? If not, how would you change it?
ANDREW J. VEGA
I have no issue with the current noise ordinance, but I understand why the police department sought a way to make it more objective in its application and enforcement. I would adjust the current draft of the noise ordinance being reviewed by the Public Safety Committee to make the applicable hours the same every day, Sunday through Saturday.
KRISTA SWINGLE
I do not see a need to modify the current noise ordinance. No one should be disturbed at night—we all want quiet for ourselves and our families, regardless of who is making the noise. The current ordinance is clearly enforceable, as demonstrated by the number of strikes issued, and the data show that noise is not a significant ongoing issue in the city. I do not support creating new ordinances unless a clear need arises.
BEV MILLER
No, I do not agree with the current noise ordinance as written. When the chief of police says an ordinance needs to be changed so that it is measurable—and therefore enforceable—I listen. If our police officers, who
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Obituary: Steven Laughlin “Big Steve” Brown
By Mary Ramus
Steven Laughlin Brown, affectionately known as “Big Steve,” passed away peacefully on Friday, Sept. 26, surrounded by his beloved wife and children. He was born July 31 in Kingsport, Tennessee, to Donald Julius and Mary Ellen Brown.
A graduate of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill College of Pharmacy, Steve began his long and impactful career in pharmacy education when he joined the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) College of Pharmacy in 1978. Over the years, he served as a professor and director of student affairs, retiring in 2015 as assistant dean of student affairs. Among many recognitions, Steve was especially honored to receive the Martin Luther King Jr. Award—a testament to his dedication to service, equality and leadership.
Steve’s passion for pharmacy extended beyond academia; he also worked in long-term care, hospital and retail settings. But it was his warmth, humor and generosity that truly defined him. Known to all as someone who never met a stranger, Steve had a big smile, a big heart and a love for life that touched everyone around him.
To his grandchildren, he was “Big Steve,” a name that captured both his humor and his spirit. He loved boating, UNC basketball and playing the lottery (he had remarkable luck!). An Amazon package was never far from his door, and he took great joy in surprising loved ones with thoughtful gifts. He was most at peace surrounded by family, sharing dad jokes and living fully in each moment.
Steve is survived by his wife of 39 years, Cynthia Sherard Brown of Sullivan’s Island, S.C.; his daughter Mary Adelaide Ramus of Wilmington, N.C., and her children, Jack and Cole Ramus; his daughter Anna Laughlin Brown of North Charleston, S.C., and her children, Walker and June Swindells; his brother David Mark Brown of New York City; and his goddaughter and niece, Elizabeth Clare Zaytoun of Johns Island, S.C., and her children, Grover and Shellby Melton. He was preceded in death by his sister, Theresa Ann Zaytoun of Raleigh, N.C.
Steve will be deeply missed by his family, friends, colleagues and all who were lucky enough to know him.
Arrangements are being handled by Charleston Cremation Center and Funeral Home, (843) 284-7777.
IOP City Council Candidate Answers
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KATIE MIARS (INCUMBENT)
IOP’s current noise ordinance is ineffective and unenforceable. With the exception of amplified music, it does not differentiate by time and is completely arbitrary. The ordinance simply states that any noise that is unreasonably loud or disturbing is unlawful. Any noise at any time could be considered unreasonably loud or disturbing. Yes, if brought to trial, a judge could apply a reasonableness standard and determine if the noise was unreasonable, but as it would likely not be recorded, enforcement would be extremely difficult.
We need a noise ordinance with reasonable times and decibel limits. Our own police chief has said that without decibel limits, the noise ordinance is unenforceable. An officer writing a citation under the current ordinance would be like issuing a speeding ticket without indicating the driver’s speed. With solid leadership, we can develop a noise ordinance that is both reasonable and enforceable.
JOHN BOGOSIAN (INCUMBENT)
I support the intent of the city’s current noise ordinance, but I don’t believe it is strong or enforceable enough to protect residents’ peace, especially at night. Noise complaints have risen in recent years, and many more disturbances go unreported. Right now, the rules can be subjective, leaving residents, property owners, visitors, and police without clear standards.
I am pushing for an ordinance that:
• Protects nighttime peace – Allows for reasonable outdoor activity during the day, but ensures that after 10 p.m. on weekdays and 11 p.m. on weekends, no resident is forced to hear noise from a neighboring property inside their home.
• Sets measurable standards – Uses clear, enforceable decibel limits so officers aren’t left making subjective judgment calls.
• Balances enjoyment with livability – People should be able to enjoy their homes and yards, but not at the expense of their neighbors’ quality of life.
In short, my goal is a fair, enforceable noise ordinance that keeps the Isle of Palms a place where families, visitors, and residents can enjoy the island without sacrificing peace and quiet in our neighborhoods.
Beach Erosion
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managing sand sources and identifying closer, better-matched sand to the existing beach grain size. He described the practice of sand scraping as “death by a thousand cuts” — too slow and inefficient. For long-term mitigation, a proactive approach should replace the city’s current reactive strategy toward shoal events and beach erosion. In South Carolina, the regulatory process can be challenging, but Creed believes Isle of Palms should begin earlier conversations with the state about demonstrated need, using research data and forecasting. Ultimately, he said, the city should be planning several years ahead.
Next Steps
Creed recommended that the city pursue proactive shoal management on the north end instead of a structure-based solution and continue its sand renourishment plan on the south end while preparing for a long-term structural approach.
Until the city has a plan in place to control erosion, Creed said residents should be allowed to protect their property. The city currently permits the use of large sandbags, but Creed suggested other temporary measures such as Geotubes, which last about five years. When asked whether he had seen other municipalities with an ordinance similar to Isle of Palms’ rule prohibiting homeowners from building erosion control structures within 250 feet of the ocean, Creed said he had not.
Members of the ad hoc committee agreed that the city’s current approach is “drifting.” They voted to engage Foth | Olsen to identify alternatives for long-term solutions, develop proposed plans and timelines, and provide regulatory assistance.
Letter to the Editor: Protecting Isle
of Palms’ Family Character
By Christine Donavan
I wholeheartedly support Jeff Simon’s reflections in the Oct. 3 issue of the Island Eye News on the Isle of Palms. Like Jeff, I’ve lived here for more than 30 years and value the family-centered, residential character that makes this island a home — not just an economic opportunity.
That’s why I’m concerned about misleading media. A recent ad in the other island newspaper masquerades as information but is really propaganda from “The Palm Republic,” containing inaccuracies and pushing opportunistic agendas. Economic development has its place, but our community cannot be treated like an investment portfolio.
Isle of Palms politics are spirited, but at their best, they are grounded in family, community service, and respect for residential life. Residents deserve leaders who are experienced, professional, and free from conflicts of interest. Look for candidates who have served on boards, committees, or in public service — and who consistently demonstrate integrity and dedication to our community.
Before voting, ask yourself: Who truly understands our island, has served it, and will safeguard it for families today and for generations to come?
Respectfully, Christine Donavan 26th Ave., Isle of Palms
Letter to the Editor: Sullivan’s Island Needs Responsible Government
By Peter Alexander
I am writing as a citizen for responsible government on Sullivan’s Island. This isn’t partisan or political—it’s about fiscal responsibility, transparency in decision-making and smart planning for future generations. I am confident that many of our neighbors feel the same.
There are many documents listed on the town website. The more I read and researched, the more concerned I became. Here are some of the facts:
1. Town spending has increased from $4.6 million ten years ago to $11.4 million today. Administrative costs alone have risen from $1.7 million to $4.8 million. For Sullivan’s Island residents, that means household spending has grown from $5,753 in 2015 to $14,271 in 2025. Voters should question whether they are receiving services commensurate with a 248% increase in town spending—especially when inflation during that same period was 31.4%.
2. For more than ten years, Mayor O’Neill’s budgets have been rubber-stamped by Town Council—all unanimously passed.
3. The town has $38 million in debt—an enormous load for a town our size. Can Town Council members consistently describe what the long-term capital plan is for Sullivan’s Island and what the debt pay-down plan is, other than raising millage?
4. Citizens are kept in the dark, and public input is limited to two minutes before any business is discussed at Town Council meetings. Citizen input comes late in the decision process, and many projects appear to be driven more by grant awards than by smart urban planning.
5. Once issues surface and debate ensues, it’s remarkable how quickly Town Council jumps
into action. This is the cart before the horse—why should citizens always play defense on issues like the Battery Thompson parking lot, pocket parks, murals and tone-deaf slogans? Why do lawsuit settlements remain hidden from the public? How do cost overruns get buried in the noise? Why hasn’t Town Council acted more quickly on toxic bacteria pond remediation?
6. Even after months of bad press about not paying the town water bill, why are Sullivan’s Island water and sewer rates higher than all other municipalities in Charleston County, including Isle of Palms?
I believe in responsible government, and core services should “make the trains run on time.” Debate should take place at Town Council meetings, and discourse should lead to good decisions.
Let’s stop allowing town officials to tell us what we want and instead tell the town what its citizens want. Is it really asking too much for responsible government, long-term urban and fiscal planning, and a focus on core services that make the trains run on time again?
The incumbents—some serving since 2001— deserve our thanks for their service, but they have failed to meet the moment. The time has come to elect council members with fresh ideas and the courage to question and debate. If you are as concerned as I am, support new candidates with your vote on Nov. 4. The future of responsible government on Sullivan’s Island depends on you. Every vote matters.
I am optimistic that better days are ahead for Sullivan’s Island.
Peter Alexander Proud Resident of Sullivan’s Island
SI Candidate Answers
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TOWN COUNCIL
LAURA SCHROEDER
Right now on Sullivan’s Island, we have a transparency gap. Too often, items like pocket parks, town-owned cars, a proposed Stith Park pool, murals and an insensitive welcome sign appear with little notice or explanation. Residents often learn about them only after decisions are made.
Add to that a lost $4 million FEMA grant for stormwater improvements, resulting in costly delays to resilience projects, and a $38 million town debt that still lacks a clear public breakdown.
Calling a new page on the town website a Financial Transparency Center doesn’t make it true transparency — it’s window dressing. It offers only broad, high-level budget figures while omitting the kind of details that actually matter to residents.
There’s no way to see which contractors are being paid, which projects are over budget, whether grant money has been received or lost, how many employees the town has, or what specific expenditures are for. The line items are vague and provide no context or explanation of what the funds truly support.
True transparency means visibility into decisions, not just data. It means showing where the money goes, why and with what results.
But transparency isn’t just about finances — it’s about communication.
Many residents have told me they feel dismissed when their questions at meetings are met with silence. That lack of responsiveness erodes trust. Residents deserve genuine dialogue and acknowl-
edgment, not avoidance.
I will advocate for earlier publication of detailed agendas and stronger notice for neighborhoodsensitive issues so residents aren’t the last to learn about matters that directly affect them.
Beyond meetings, I would create a digital comment portal where residents can ask questions and weigh in between meetings, with clear updates on projects and spending.
I want more residents involved — and I want to be the person people can come to who listens and answers. True transparency means no surprises. It means residents are treated as partners, not spectators. That’s the kind of government I want to build here.
MELANIE BURKHOLD
Yes, I think the government of Sullivan’s Island needs to be more transparent. As I campaign across the island, the message is clear: our town must do better on transparency. Far too many residents feel left in the dark, learning of critical decisions only after they are finalized, with little chance to weigh in. Worse, some fear backlash for speaking out. It’s time to remove the opaque filter clouding our governance and build a Sullivan’s Island where everyone is informed, engaged, and empowered without fear.
During the summer of 2024, residents were shocked when a media outlet reported that the town had not paid its water bills and that a shutoff was imminent. The town said it did not owe the $1 million-plus, but the Charleston Water System (CWS) claimed otherwise. The town ultimately paid the $1 million-plus, and water bills increased significantly under the new CWS contract. It’s not too late for the town to provide a full account of what happened and its impact.
The Town of Sullivan’s Island has faced multiple harassment lawsuits, yet the public has been left in the dark about settlement outcomes, financial
costs, and any policy changes to prevent future abuses. Taxpayers indirectly bore the cost of settlements and legal fees through the town’s participation in the South Carolina Insurance Reserve Fund (IRF). The town should share all legally permissible details about these settlements and the steps it is taking to prevent future lawsuits.
Transparency also means timely and accessible information. The routine use of the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) for basic document requests signals a failure to proactively share information, forcing residents to navigate unnecessary hurdles. If elected, I will review the town’s document-sharing policies to ensure that all public records, budgets, project proposals, and meeting agendas are posted in a timely manner, both before and after decisions are made. I will propose a dedicated “Minutes Hub” on the town website, where all council and committee minutes are archived in a searchable, user-friendly format.
I will ensure executive sessions meet strict legal criteria under South Carolina law, limiting their use to necessary cases and encouraging open dialogue. Another concern is the overuse of ad hoc committees, which can bypass established committees, obscure documentation, and limit public input. I will propose a policy requiring that issues within the scope of established committees be handled by those bodies, ensuring consistent documentation and public review.
I will push for increased public speaking time at town council meetings and initiate town halls on critical issues to foster open communication. I will propose using clear, plain language for project approvals so residents understand the impacts without deciphering technical terms.
I will advocate for soliciting resident input before the town applies for grants for nonessential projects. Examples like the pocket parks, nature trails, and mural highlight instances where transparency and broad com-
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SI Candidate Answers
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munity support were lacking. Residents were left in the dark and then had to play defense against town decisions. Residents and the Town Council should be on the same team, working collaboratively—and that collaboration can only begin with transparency.
GARRY VISSER (INCUMBENT)
We enjoy the dedicated volunteer service of residents on the Board of Zoning, Design Review, Planning, Tree Commission, Town Council, and the mayor. In addition, there are the committees of Council: Finance, Public Safety, Water and Sewer, Administration, Land Use and Natural Resources, and Public Facilities and Recreation.
All of these bodies are dedicated and adhere carefully to the demands of public meetings, including published agendas, public hearings, recorded and available proceedings, and opportunities for public input and comment. Many community projects include special public meetings and charrettes, always with public notice and participation. It is simply good public policy, followed with great care, and it’s the law.
What more can be done? Attend the meetings, add your advice and opinions to the discussions, follow the published proceedings, and—best of all—volunteer to serve your community on its boards and commissions.
JUSTIN NOVAK (INCUMBENT)
Four years ago, I sought to serve on Town Council to ensure that our town preserved and protected the history, character, and charm of our
island so it remains an exceptional place to live, raise our families, and welcome friends and neighbors. I also wanted to make sure all island residents were part of the conversation. At that time, there was a pervasive feeling in our small, closely knit community that town officials were not including residents in discussions about how we address our most challenging problems. Many residents simply didn’t feel their voices were being heard or that their views were given due consideration. Things are much better now, but there is always more work to be done to ensure everyone feels welcome at town hall and included in the conversation.
The first step is ensuring that residents are empowered with access to the information needed to understand how the town functions and evaluate its performance. We have taken this step by creating a state-of-the-art online Financial Transparency Center, accessible on the town’s website. This center gives residents easy access to the details of the town’s current operating budget, capital budget, past budgets, revenues, expenditures, current projects, proposed projects, and funding sources. Residents can even evaluate the town’s performance over time by accessing charts that compare the current proposed budget with past budgets.
The next step is proactively engaging residents to inform them of decisions facing our community so we can address them together. We have taken this step by creating TOSI Talks, which sends meeting notices and agendas to residents’ cell phones; publishing a town newsletter filled with information on town matters, projects, and events; and modernizing the town website to make it easily accessible. We have also increased public comment time at council meetings and promoted participation in town meetings, workshops, committee meetings, and open houses. Additionally, we directly reach out to residents—both full-time and seasonal—who have homes near proposed projects to solicit their thoughts, concerns, and questions.
A good example of this is the recent consider-
ation of establishing a small pocket park for residents near the confluence of Middle Street, Conquest Avenue, and Star of the West, using grant funding from Charleston County. After this idea was presented, Town Council held several committee meetings at which residents were invited—and did—provide their input. The town also proactively reached out to nearby residents to solicit their feedback. The chair of the town’s Recreation Committee even met with residents at the proposed site to discuss the idea. In the end, the town received input from at least 36 residents—most opposed the idea. As a result, Town Council decided not to proceed with the project.
Transparency requires ongoing, continuous effort. We must sustain and expand that effort to ensure we continue to earn residents’ confidence and trust.
SCOTT MILLIMET (INCUMBENT)
This is a timely question that I actually addressed in a letter to the editor that appeared in the Oct. 3 edition of the Island Eye. I have copied the link to that letter below.
I have also given the transparency question a bit more thought. Transparency, as it relates to government, generally means making sure the decisionmaking process and information are visible and accessible so voters can hold leaders accountable. Your Town Council meets in open session monthly for both council meetings (about two hours) and workshops (about 1.5 hours). Over the past two years, that equates to roughly 84 hours of council interacting with the public.
Additionally, I personally spend approximately 1.5 hours per week replying to email correspondence from constituents. Over the past two years, that is another 156 hours of interaction with voters. In total, that amounts to an estimated 240 hours of communicating with the voting community (exclud-
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Mayors Forum
Tuesday, October 21st | 6:15 PM to 7:30 PM
Isle of Palms Exchange Club
Questions will come from the audience. Doors open at 6:00 PM, and all questions must be turned in before the forum begins.
SI Candidate Answers
Continued from page 15
GARRY VISSER (INCUMBENT)
Our community owes much to the foresight and discipline of previous councils and concerned residents who preserved the maritime forest and its protections. We have enhanced those protections by establishing and hiring a Director of Resilience and Natural Resources to advise and assist in the preservation of the forest and habitat across Sullivan’s Island.
Our community benefits from the maritime forest’s protection from storms, its support of migratory wildlife, and its enhancement of our quality of life. You need not travel far to see how other coastal communities envy our natural resources and protections from further development. We must continue to focus on the management plan and recognize how it enhances our safety, property values, and quality of life for residents.
JUSTIN NOVAK (INCUMBENT)
My family fell in love with Sullivan’s Island because of the wondrous sense of place and community that exists on this primarily single-family residential, uniquely beautiful barrier island. As fortunate residents, we enjoy the charm of a historic small town, a relaxed lifestyle, and easy access to pristine beaches, beautiful marshes and natural areas, and award-winning restaurants. As a parent of two young children growing up on the island, I want to ensure that the town continues the work
required to preserve this sense of place and community for generations.
Our incredible maritime forest, like the island’s other natural areas, is an integral part of what draws people to this special place and is indispensable to our community’s identity. If you haven’t recently, I encourage you to take a moment to walk down one of our beach paths or nature trails and experience the varied marshes, wetlands, and dunes you encounter on the way to the beach.
Over the years, our community has struggled with the best way to manage this natural resource, which provides a place of respite for residents, a haven for the beautiful birds that populate our island, and much-needed protection from floodwaters and storm surge. We now seem to have struck the correct balance and are well-positioned to maintain it in the future.
During the last several years, the town has taken a deliberate approach to any measure that would impact our natural areas. We have retained our first director of natural resource management to provide expert advice regarding their proper care. We have implemented programs to remove non-native and invasive species, protect ecological integrity, and maximize the areas’ ability to absorb floodwaters and storm surge.
We have also taken steps to ensure these areas are accessible and benefit residents. We have established a reserve fund in the capital budget for scheduled boardwalk repair and replacement to ensure the paths remain in good repair. We maintain existing footpaths through these areas so residents may continue to enjoy easy access to the marshes and the beach.
We should continue this deliberate approach and make sure all islanders are part of the conver-
CSE Provides Explanation Behind “Cat-Eye” Pond at Station 28 ½
By Christian Senger
Aug. 2023 photo showing the area that will become the pond. Note the erosional arc along the shoreline that occurred as the sand attached. As the sand continued to attach, a new dry-sand berm formed, isolating the pond from the ocean.
On Sept. 19, Steven Traynum of Coastal Science & Engineering (CSE) provided Sullivan’s Island Town Council with a memo, requested by Town Administrator Joe Henderson, that offered a scientific explanation for the development of the “cat-eye” pond at Station 28½. Henderson requested the memo after receiving multiple claims from front beach property owners that the pond formed because of the town’s dune restoration project and that the new dune system was worsening the pond’s drainage into the ocean. Henderson said the memo is intended to dispel these claims.
The memo explains that the formation of the “cat-eye” pond is a natural result of shoal bypassing from Breach Inlet, a process common along inlet-adjacent beaches. Sediment moves from the inlet onto the shore in phases—emergence, attachment, and spreading—creating crescent-shaped shoals that trap water, forming cat-eye ponds.
The memo notes that the recent dune restoration added some sand, but this is minor compared to natural sediment transport and did not cause the pond. The ponding is expected to naturally fill in over 12–18 months, though storms may accelerate the process.
CSE recommends maintaining tidal flushing by excavating a small channel in the berm if needed, with proper coordination with state authorities.
You can see the full memo on the Island Eye News website.
Traynum will present the town’s 2024–25 Beach Profile Study during the Oct. 6 council meeting, with a particular focus on the cat-eye pond.
sation about how best to manage this incredible resource for the benefit of all residents.
SCOTT MILLIMET (INCUMBENT)
The maritime forest is not only unique, but it also serves as a natural storm break for the entire community when a hurricane reaches Sullivan’s Island. This benefit adds to the forest’s natural beauty and its critical ecological importance, supporting migrating birds and other species.
The management of the maritime forest will always be a work in progress. It was the central issue in our elections four years ago. We have worked hard since then to put necessary protections in place, and we cannot afford to let them lapse now. The town must balance the current and future preservation of the forest with public access to both the forest and the adjacent beaches.
Currently, that balance exists. Sufficient ordinances allow for cutting certain native species, such as wax myrtles, to a height of five feet. Front beach property owners may remove invasive Chinese tallow with permits, as well as saplings up to 1.5 inches in diameter in footpaths that extend from private residences to the beach. However, these footpaths cannot—and should not—be restricted from public access, as they lie in a public land trust. Furthermore, where footpaths do not exist, none should be created. In aggregate, this illustrates the balance I mentioned.
While the Comprehensive Plan considers a third extension to the nature trail, none is anticipated, and I would not support an extension. I do support strict enforcement and the maximization of penalties for those found in violation of policies designed to protect the maritime forest.
Letter to the Editor: It’s Game Time on IOP
By Tom Schmidt
Let’s all step back from home plate and ask the island umpires to call a fair game. After all, it’s game time for IOP politics and the upcoming election — and our umpires are challenged to keep things fair.
The teams are now clearly differentiated. The mayor’s home team alignment with commercial interests is obvious. His team includes the current vice president of the Chamber of Commerce; an outspoken rental management owner and advocate for the Chamber’s rental lobbyist subgroup, the Family Vacation Rental Group; and a second-chance candidate supported by the same commercial interests.
The challenging team, with zero commercial ties, includes three incumbent council members, a member of the IOP Planning Commission, and a longtime advocate for island preservation and livability.
Even a blind umpire can see another curveball coming. Livability is best served with a “residents first” fastball. Let’s call a strike down the middle for our residents — and avoid the curveballs of special interests.
Letter to the Editor: Preserving the SI Milieu
By Ned Higgins
I love to throw around French words — it makes me feel so continental. Some have compared my French vocabulary to that of Miss Piggy’s, but that seems generous.
One of my favorite French words is milieu, which, when applied to Sullivan’s Island, can be loosely translated as “Mayberry by the Sea.” We all know Sullivan’s Island is a très special place. I mean, if for some reason I got run out of town, I don’t know where I’d go.
With the exception of developers on Isle of Palms, most of us want to preserve the character of the island. But despite this, time marches on — and traffic gets worse.
Many ideas come up. Fortunately, the current SI leadership has a great track record of sorting through the wheat and the chaff. One example is paid parking. Ostensibly, it seemed like a magnificent idée — charge other people to park on the island. What’s not to like? Except it won’t work and detracts from the simple charm of the island.
What about the gift from our neighbors to the north — the expansion of the maritime forest? Let’s not throw that back into the ocean. It protects us from massive storm surge. Clear-cutting: nixed!
Oh, and who had the great idea for time-sharing? Pepe Le Pew? The town is doing what it can to snuff that out.
Other ideas have come before the town — turning the former Sand Dunes Club into a private club, or building a pool at Stith Park. These ideas got some attention, but most residents were opposed, and the proposals died.
More recently, pocket parks have generated some interest. It seemed like a simple way to put a bench on a small parcel of town property. Turns out, the immediate neighbors were opposed to the idea. Done — fini!
Sometimes things happen and the town has to react to preserve the character of the island. Think: coyotes and people building enormous houses. Trapping has largely eliminated the first problem but had no significant effect on the latter. The leadership of the island instead put constraints on new construction.
But as the French say, c’est la vie, which in this case roughly translates to: “some things do gotta change.” I mean, the ocean is rising, the storms are worse, and Dominion continues to cut trees.
The town is taking serious action to investigate options for flooding, overhead power lines and the criminal contingent who won’t pay their tab at Dunleavy’s. The approach is to listen to ideas, investigate options, seek input from island residents and proceed — or not. And in most cases, it’s not. This is the way local government is supposed to work: cautiously move forward.
All this is to say: this is not the time to change the makeup of the leadership of the SI Town Council.
Miss Piggy would agree.
Au revoir.
Record-Breaking Year for the IOP Connector Run
By Robbie Berg
It has been an honor to serve on the board of the IOP Connector Run for the past four years and witness the extreme dedication of board members, Chair Michelle Priest, and Exchange Program of Service Chair Deb Barr. This event is a collaboration among the cities of Isle of Palms and Mount Pleasant, their recreation departments, the Isle of Palms and Mount Pleasant police departments, and the Isle of Palms Fire Department. It truly takes “villages” to make this sanctioned 10K and 5K run a memorable and well-organized success.
This article focuses on the race itself; the next edition will cover the funds raised for child abuse prevention agencies and recognize the sponsors and volunteers who make this event possible through their donations and support.
This year was truly an international event, with 2,500 registered runners — a record-breaking turnout. Congratulations to all who participated and supported the race.
One participant we’d like to highlight is our oldest IOP Connector Run finisher, **Mary Schall**, who is 94 years old. The race has been a staple in Mary’s annual schedule of events, which she “walks briskly” in each year. She first became involved with the event in 1995 after joining the Isle of Palms Exchange Club and volunteering for the race as a member.
At age 40, Mary decided that running would help her achieve her personal mission: “In a 24-hour day, one hour needs to be physically challenging.” She joined a training class that January and by April could run three miles — and she hasn’t stopped since.
Eleven years ago, after her husband Ned passed away, Mary began participating in the IOP Connector Run with her son, who travels from Wisconsin each year to join her. Most years, she has finished first in her age group. When she was 90, competing in the 80-year-old category, she finished second, joking, “What do you expect?” In 2019, she and her son both finished first in their respective races, and in 2025, Mary once again placed first.
Mary also participates in the annual Gobble Wobble 5K in Charleston on Thanksgiving Day with her three sons and the Cooper River Bridge Run each year. To prepare, she “walks briskly” three to five miles daily throughout her neighborhood. She also volunteers one day a week at Roper Hospital and leads brain game activities at Franke.
The Isle of Palms Exchange Club extends heartfelt thanks to everyone who helped make this year’s event such a success, including runners from Canada, England, Ireland, South Africa, and from across the United States — including Idaho, Alabama, Georgia, New Jersey, New York, Utah, Illinois, Ohio, Michigan, Indiana, Wisconsin, and the Carolinas.
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Race Overhead Photo provided by: Palm Social
Raising a Glass (Again!) to Our Heroes: IOP Firefighter Appreciation Night Set for Oct. 23 Firetrucks, Free Meals and Mayor Pounds’ “Not-So-Secret” Second Job
By The Isle of Palms LENS Foundation
When it comes to community traditions that truly light up the island, few shine brighter than Firefighter Appreciation Night at Islander 71. On Thursday, Oct. 23, from 5–8 p.m., the Isle of Palms community will gather once again to celebrate the men and women who rush toward flames when the rest of us run the other way.
Hosted by the Isle of Palms Law Enforcement Neighborhood Support (LENS) Foundation in partnership with Islander 71, this annual fall event has quickly become a favorite night on the calendar—complete with live music, games, giveaways and, yes, Mayor Phillip Pounds back behind the bar for a second year as guest bartender.
“This is going to be a wonderful event for the littles all the way up through the age brackets—there’s something for everyone,” said Isle of Palms Fire Chief Craig Oliverius. “It’s a great opportunity for our firefighters to connect with the community and show our appreciation. It’s a beautiful spot—at Islander 71. So please come out, enjoy the fall weather, and we look forward to seeing you there!”
An Evening for All Ages
From free kids’ meals, firefighter helmets and games to the big red firetruck parked out front for kids (and kids-at-heart) to explore, the night is designed to engage the entire family. Adults can relax with live music, a coastal sunset and featured cocktails—all while knowing their enjoyment gives back.
Proceeds and tips from the bar go directly to the Isle of Palms LENS Foundation, supporting programs that benefit the island’s first responders.
Mayor Pounds: Back Behind the Bar
And about those cocktails—yes, the rumors are true. Mayor Phillip Pounds is dusting off the bar towel for a second year.
“I love helping in any way I can to give back to our community,” the mayor said. “It’s great that all the funds raised from tips and specialty cocktails go directly to the LENS Foundation to benefit our first responders. I’m always happy to do my part—even if my bartending skills leave much to be desired. Let’s just say you might get more conversation than cocktail flair when you order from me.”
Why October?
The event follows National Fire Prevention Week, a century-old initiative dedicated to raising fire safety awareness. On Isle of Palms, it has also become a chance to pause and show gratitude to the firefighters who protect homes, families and the island community year-round.
Registration
No tickets or registration are required, but RSVPing at lensiop.org/events enters you into a raffle for an Islander 71 gift card.
Mark your calendars for Oct. 23, grab the kids, invite a neighbor, and head to Islander 71 for a night that’s equal parts fun and heartfelt. After all, how often do you get to thank your firefighters while the mayor hands you a drink?
Isle of Palms Recreation Department to Host Holiday Ornament Workshop with Mimi Wood
By Tammy Cox
The City of Isle of Palms Recreation Department will host a holiday ornament workshop with local artist Mimi Wood on Friday, Nov. 21, at 9:45 a.m. Participants will learn to create oyster-shell holiday ornaments and decor using a variety of techniques and accessories, making it perfect for seasonal gift-giving. The workshop fee is $5.
A special thank you to Wood for donating her time and talent to this project and many others with the IOP Recreation Department.
The event will be held at the IOP Recreation Center at 24 28th Ave.
For more info, visit IOP.net or follow the department on Facebook and Instagram.
DOGLUCKY
INTERPRETED BY: Katherine Berry
OWNER NAME: Carla Rickenbaker
NAME: Bandit’, Bubba’, ‘Ban’ & ‘Hillshire’
BREED: Treeing Walker Coonhound
FAVORITE TOY: Cardboard
VET: Dr. Schuler, St George
FOOD: Purina Pro Plan
Bandit
Bandit: The Misunderstood Guardian
I smelled you coming before you even turned the page. Hello, I’m Bandit — a mostly good boy with a big ol’ hound sound. Neighbors know my voice, and I use it proudly to protect Mom and my domain. The world doesn’t always “get” me, but tucked under these long ears and behind my mask is a fearless protector who also cuddles like a king.
I was born to be a deer dog, but rumor has it I didn’t have the right “tongue.” My sniffer is top of the class, but I wasn’t cut out for the chaos of barking and chasing through the woods. Lucky for me, I was fired and reassigned. Instead of a concrete kennel, I landed on my own couch — on an island, no less. That’s why I’m a lucky dog.
My days start at the sliding door, scanning the neighborhood like a fourlegged detective. Once the leash — a.k.a. my ticket to excitement — snaps on, we’re off. Mom keeps me tethered since my nose has been known to hijack my brain. One whiff and I’m gone, chasing scents like breaking news. I’m not a ball-chasing dog — I’m a dog-chasing dog. My afternoon playdates with Lilly and Sammy are my highlight reel. As for the beach, I don’t swim, but I’ll saunter just far enough to wet my socks before retreating to the dunes.
Food is another story. My mom’s sister nicknamed me “Hillshire” thanks to my sausage obsession. Leave meat on the counter and it’s basically an open invitation. A nibble becomes a bite, and a bite becomes … well, no meat left. What meat? You never had meat. That’s my story and I’m sticking to it.
Car rides? My jam. If Mom leaves without me, I’ll bark until she reconsiders. In my younger days I gave myself motion sickness — looking left, right, left, right — until I threw up. We powered through, though, and now I’m a seasoned road warrior. Training classes? Forget cookies. My currency is cheese. Honestly, our entire household’s love language is cheddar. What makes me truly lucky is Mom herself. She used to be a cat person, but now she’s a Bandit person (don’t tell the cat — she has claws and she’s not afraid to use them). Beneath my loud bark and serious demeanor is a snuggle bunny who melts into Mom’s side every chance I get. She’s the beating of my heart, and I dare you to test that bond.
So yeah, maybe I’m misunderstood. Maybe I’m a little loud, a little nose-driven, a little sausage-obsessed. But I’ve got the best gig in the world: an island to patrol, a mom to protect, cheese in the fridge and a couch with my name on it. That’s the good life. That’s my lucky dog life.
The Lonon Foundation Announces Shuck Fest 2025
By Anna Lonon
The Lonon Foundation has announced the return of its signature fundraiser, Shuck Fest 2025, presented by Page’s Okra Grill, Jody and Chloe McAuley, and Baird. The event will take place Sunday, Nov. 9, 2025, from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Isle of Palms Exchange Club. The oyster roast and community celebration supports the foundation’s mission of providing emotional and social support to children who have a parent or caregiver battling cancer.
Now in its third year, Shuck Fest has become a Charleston tradition, drawing hundreds of attendees for a day of unlimited oysters, barbecue, live music, local brews, a silent auction, a mission moment and more—all set against the waterfront backdrop of Isle of Palms.
“This event is more than just a good time, it’s a mission in motion,” said Anna Lonon, founder of The Lonon Foundation. “Each ticket purchased directly supports our UPLIFT program, which provides year-round peer support groups and experiences for children who are navigating the challenges of a parent’s cancer diagnosis.”
Tickets are $75 and include all-you-can-eat oysters and barbecue, live music, silent auctions and more. The first 75 ticket buyers will receive a complimentary oyster knife. Tickets can be purchased at thelononfoundation.org/events/shuck-fest-2025.
Why It Matters
A cancer diagnosis doesn’t just affect one person — it deeply impacts the entire family, especially children. The emotional toll of treatment, often prolonged and stressful, can create instability, anxiety and feelings of isolation for children who may not have the tools to process what’s happening at home.
One in five people diagnosed with cancer this year will be the parent or guardian of a minor child.
One in 15 children in the United States are currently navigating the challenges of a parent’s cancer diagnosis.
Since its founding, the Lonon Foundation has supported more than 300 children in the Charleston region through its free programs.
Through its UPLIFT program, the foundation offers monthly peer support groups, family outings and wellness experiences designed to help children and teens feel seen, understood and supported. Every ticket to Shuck Fest directly fuels this work, bringing connection, comfort and healing to children when they need it most.
