IEN Oct 3, 2025

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 important to residents. We will ask them six questions in total and will publish their answers in pairs over the next few issues. Responses to the first two questions list the incumbent first, followed by the other candidates in alphabetical order by last name. In the Oct. 17 issue, the order will be reversed, with a random order used in the Oct. 31 issue. All answers and campaign announcements can be found on our website.

1. Why are you running for office on Isle of Palms? What are your ideas for making life better for the residents of Isle of Palms?

PHILLIP POUNDS (INCUMBENT)

There are many large, long-term projects competing for limited resources on the city’s horizon, and I would like to continue offering my help as mayor in addressing these for the benefit of all Isle of Palms stakeholders. My background and experience help me manage competing priorities while ensuring we maintain the quality of life in our part of paradise. I’m grateful for your support during my years on council and my first term as mayor, as well as the encouragement from many of you to seek another four-year term.

I would like to continue my success in delivering the same types of projects we completed or made significant progress on during my first term: drainage and stormwater improvements, beach access path enhancements including ADA access,

recreation center upgrades, beach maintenance and restoration, a new public dock, increased opportunities for resident engagement, financial stewardship, improved relationships across the Lowcountry and state to pave the way for collaboration, green space around our public dock, and the Waterway Boulevard multi-use path and flood barrier project.

We must also create a strategy for implementing the complex recommendations from the Comprehensive Plan, Community Enrichment Plan, Beach Preservation Committee, and the Sea Level Rise Adaptation Plan.

SCOTT PIERCE

When I retired more than 10 years ago, Jennie and I had already lived in many places. We chose Isle of Palms because of its community, natural beauty, and high quality of life. Living here is a true gift.

In 2018, I became involved with city government to help with a few projects. That led to serving two years on the Planning Commission and the past four years on City Council. It has been an honor and a privilege to serve.

During this time, our region has experienced rapid growth, putting increasing pressure on Isle of Palms. Residents and property owners are absorbing impacts on quality of life as well as the costs of rising demands on city services.

I’m running for mayor because I believe residents deserve better, and City Council can do more to preserve our home and prepare for future

generations. We cannot stand still—we must plan ahead. Residents’ quality of life is under pressure from several areas:

•Heavy traffic and neighborhood congestion from 10 million bridge crossings each year

•A beach eroded to levels not seen since Hurricane Hugo

•Aging infrastructure and a growing backlog of capital projects

Each of these challenges requires sustainable solutions, long-term planning, and smart investment.

I am also concerned about our financial future. You may hear that the city has $50 million in the bank, which sounds strong, but the reality is more complicated: we have more than $40 million in capital projects scheduled over the next two fiscal years, a significant project backlog, and rising expenses that outpace revenues. Our bank balance is not a financial plan. We need foresight and strategic planning to maintain fiscal health.

As mayor, I will pursue state and other external support to ensure contributions match real-world usage of public services and the beach, rather than placing the full burden on residents, property owners, and local businesses. We cannot afford to go it alone.

The mayor’s role is to work with City Council to deliver results and proactively prepare for the future. Every year we wait is a year lost. I have the experience and record to work with Council and state leaders while making sure residents’ voices are reflected in policy.

(Continued on page 2

Andrew Vega Announces Candidacy for Isle of Palms City Council

By Andrew Vega

Lowcountry native and retired U.S. Air Force Maj. Andrew Vega has announced his candidacy for Isle of Palms City Council. A 2003 graduate of the U.S. Air Force Academy with a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering, Vega served on active duty from 2003 to 2012 and in the Air Force Reserve from 2012 to 2023. He currently works as an international airline pilot flying the Airbus 350.

Vega’s military experience as a C-17 pilot—3,913 flying hours, including more than 1,250 combat hours, as well as serving as an airdrop aircraft commander, evaluator and flight safety officer—placed him in challenging environments where planning, execution and assessment were expected to be accomplished with precision and integrity.

“My aviation career has always centered on work-

ing with a team, and those teams are diverse in their makeup because of each person’s area of expertise, life experiences and priorities,” Vega said. “Fostering an environment where decisions are data-driven, risks are appropriately assessed, and concerns or critiques can be honestly expressed is critical every time I step foot in the cockpit, and I believe that type of approach to public service is needed on our council.”

Vega said his top priority is preserving freedom by using a common-sense approach to addressing the unique realities the city faces as a South Carolina barrier island. He would like to see an emphasis on ensuring policies provide meaningful and balanced benefits to the entire community. In addition, Vega supports continuing efforts to partner with other municipalities and government agencies to address challenges brought about by explosive regional growth. (Continued on page 3

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IOP Mayor Candidate Answers

Continued from page 1

My commitments to the community include:

•Protecting residents’ quality of life

•Strengthening public safety and core services

•Partnering with IOP businesses on investments and initiatives

•Restoring and preserving the beach with stable, long-term funding

•Modernizing roads, drainage, beach access, parking, and facilities

•Practicing fiscal responsibility with full transparency

This is not a dress rehearsal. It’s time to collaborate and act. We are one community facing many challenges, but with an experienced leadership team and open dialogue, we can address any issue professionally and respectfully.

The future health and quality of life on Isle of Palms are at stake.

JON REGAN WALTERS

I’m running for mayor because Isle of Palms deserves leadership that puts residents first. I’m not a politician; I’m your neighbor. Every decision I make will be guided by a simple test: Is this in the best interest of our residents and our Island? If the answer is no, I won’t support it.

My priorities are clear. Short-term rentals must strike the right balance between visitors and residents. I don’t want to see endless tear-downs or cookie-cutter builds that erase our island’s character. We must preserve authenticity while protecting neighborhoods. Fiscal transparency is also essential. Residents deserve to know how every dollar is spent through clear, open budgeting.

Infrastructure improvements can’t wait. From restriping the Connector Bridge and expanding the Beach Reach shuttle, to burying power lines across the island and controlling beach erosion, we need long-term solutions that make life safer and easier. To restore our quality of life, we must reclaim our reputation as a family-friendly beach with stronger beach-etiquette rules and safer public spaces.

I will also support local business growth, strengthening partnerships that keep our economy thriving, and I will lead by listening first, ensuring residents’ voices guide decisions.

Some say my goals are lofty. I say good. Anyone shooting for mediocrity isn’t worth a bucket full of

warm spit. Winners aim high! Isle of Palms deserves better, and as mayor, I intend to deliver it.

2. The beaches in many parts of the island are worse than they have ever been and worse than many surrounding communities. Do you believe this is an existential threat to the residential, rental, and business community, and what would you do to remedy this situation?

PHILLIP POUNDS

Our beach, like those along the state’s coastline, is dynamic and highly cyclical, with periods of accretion and erosion. This is especially true for an island shaped like ours, with inlets on each end and sand that moves in both directions. The city has performed extensive emergency work, including deploying sandbags, rebuilding dunes, and scraping sand, at a cost of more than $3 million.

During my first term, we established a Beach Ad Hoc Preservation Committee comprised of residents and council members. This committee met for more than a year, hearing from experts and representatives of other coastal communities. The committee defined a nourishment cycle, a desired beach profile, and a financial model forecasting the next 35-plus years.

The financial aspect can be daunting, but the sky is not falling. Our model assumes a worst-case scenario: no financial assistance, no help from Mother Nature providing bypassing shoals that typically attach to our island every few years, and no ongoing support from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. In reality, we continue to pursue every available source of assistance— federal, state, and county.

We have discussed future plans to dredge the Intracoastal Waterway every 18–24 months and deposit beach-quality sand directly on Isle of Palms. We have asked our federal lobbyists to explore funding sources and our state lobbyists to seek either an ongoing funding source for coastal communities or changes to state law to give municipalities greater flexibility in funding alternatives.

As for any future remedies or changes, I would be guided by our coastal engineers and other experts the city utilizes.

(Continued on page 5

Vega

Continued from page 1

“Traffic, flooding and beach erosion are decades-old challenges on Isle of Palms,” Vega said. “These are the realities of choosing to be island residents, and while we’ll never be fully in control, there are new technologies and approaches to addressing these issues that could provide us all a bit of relief.”

He also wants to make sure residential areas feel protected and safe for families, which he said means recruiting and retaining the best police and fire department employees to serve the community.

“We have people commuting an hour or more to work their shift on behalf of our community, and spending 50% or more of their salary on housing,” Vega said. “We’re lucky to have such dedicated public servants, but at some point, this won’t be sustainable for them, and then our community will suffer. We truly need to start addressing compensation differently, either through new tactics within our own budget or through advocacy for policy change at the regional and state level.”

Vega is a lifetime member of VFW Post 3137 on Isle of Palms. He was appointed by City Council to serve on the Beach Preservation Ad Hoc Committee and has done so since February 2024. He and his wife, Sarah, have been married for 20 years, and their two children attend Charleston County School District schools. Together, they have called Isle of Palms home since 2018.

Vega said he will not accept campaign donations or seek the endorsement of any special interest groups or business organizations.

“I’m putting myself forward as an independent candidate focused on providing leadership for our community, not management or agendas influenced by the priorities of organized groups,” he said. “That means I’m here to listen to you, to engage in conversation and to make decisions based on comprehensive data and what’s best for the community.”

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JON REGAN WALTERS FOR IOP MAYOR

Short Term Rentals

Short-term rentals bring revenue, but without balance they disrupt neighborhoods and raise housing costs. I’ll support sensible limits and strong enforcement to protect our community while still welcoming responsible tourism without endless tear-downs or cookie-cutter builds that erase our island’s character.

Beach Erosion & Infrastructure

Our shoreline is the heart of Isle of Palms, yet erosion continues to threaten it year after year. We need long-term, sustainable solutions, while also improving drainage, roads, and utilities that serve residents first.

Residents Quality of Life

Traffic, noise, and overdevelopment have put pressure on the day-today life of islanders. My priority is protecting the character of our community by keeping livability at the center of every decision.

Local Business Growth

Our local businesses are part of what makes Isle of Palms special. By cutting red tape, improving parking and access, and ensuring fair support, we can strengthen our economy while keeping it rooted in community values.

Fiscal Transparency

Residents deserve to know where every dollar goes. I will make the city’s finances fully transparent, hold leaders accountable for spending, and fight to keep more of the $550M we generate each year invested right here on our island. I don’t want property tax increases either, I’m a resident too!

Leaders That Listen

Too often, decisions are made without truly hearing residents. I will keep an open door, seek community input, and lead with the same honor and accountability that guided me throughout my military service.

IOP Mayor Candidate Answers

Continued from page 1

SCOTT PIERCE

Beach erosion is a clear threat to the Isle of Palms. Our community depends on a healthy beach for residents’ quality of life, property values, rentals, and the businesses that serve both residents and visitors. Nearly three years ago, IOP entered an aggressive erosion cycle, and today our shoreline is in its worst condition since Hurricane Hugo. Unlike many other coastal communities, IOP has remained reactive rather than proactive, leaving our beach among the most stressed and vulnerable in South Carolina.

Permits for the next nourishment are only now being submitted, meaning we must endure at least one more hurricane season before relief. Current consultant estimates for a full nourishment—roughly 1.8 million cubic yards of sand—exceed $32 million. Even that may be conservative given rising mobilization, dredging, and sand costs. Yet, the city’s most recent budget does not reflect these realities, and state funding is essentially symbolic at just $1.5 million for all of South Carolina. For now, we are on our own.

The current plan—spending down the $10 million Beach Fund, asking Wild Dunes residents to contribute, and drawing from other city fund balances—is short-sighted and leaves us unprepared for the next cycle. The Ad-Hoc Beach Committee, of which I was a member, studied long-term proactive strategies in 2024 and delivered dozens of realistic recommendations to City Council for sustainable funding and modern shoreline management. Unfortunately, the council’s majority response was to shelve nearly all those recommendations in favor of “Band-Aid” solutions like scraping, sandbagging, excavating, and waiting years for the Army Corps’ spoil delivery—measures that do not solve the problem.

Here’s what I would do differently, consistent with the committee’s recommendations:

•Shift from reactive to proactive beach management, adopting lower-cost, long-term strategies already in place in other coastal communities.

•Establish sustainable, shared funding sources beyond the current 1% ATAX so we are not forced to drain reserves each cycle.

•Aggressively pursue state and federal partnerships, making the case that IOP’s beaches are not just a local asset but a regional and state economic engine.

•Invest in ongoing maintenance and modern solutions to avoid repeating the cycle of crisis management and escalating costs.

If we continue down the current path, we risk resident and visitor enjoyment, property values, and the very tourism economy that helps fund our city. If we act boldly and proactively, we can preserve the beach for residents and future generations while sharing financial responsibility with those who benefit most.

JON REGAN WALTERS

Yes, the erosion of our beaches is an existential threat, first and foremost to the residents of Isle of Palms. Our shoreline protects our homes, neighborhoods, and quality of life. When beaches disappear, residents face immediate risks — from storm vulnerability to property loss to a diminished community experience.

Unfortunately, the city has relied on expensive, short-term fixes that don’t last. After Hurricane Matthew, Isle of Palms spent $11.88 million on beach replenishment in 2017–18, placing nearly 1.6 million cubic yards of sand on the shoreline. Within a few years, much of it was gone, and that investment was “washed away.” This “rinse and repeat” model may look good in a press release, but it fails the people who live here every day.

Even where restoration has occurred, results often hurt residents. At the Citadel Beach House, we’ve seen positive results; however, renourishment at Wild Dunes has left steep escarpments and unintended consequences, making it harder for families to enjoy the beach. A healthy beach should be both a natural storm buffer and a usable community space.

When residents lose access and protection, businesses feel it too. Shops, restaurants, and service providers depend on strong local traffic and a thriving island environment. Narrower, less accessible beaches hurt the economy and the rental market alike.

As mayor, I will demand accountability and long-term sustainability by:

•Directing Beach Preservation Act funds back to their intended use — dune maintenance, renourishment, and access paths — with full transparency.

• Using proven, sustainable methods like sand fencing, native vegetation, and recycled Christmas trees. (We used Christmas trees after Hurricane Hugo, and it worked!)

•Measuring success with real metrics, not rhetoric.

Our beaches and the dunes are the buffer that protects our homes and the foundation of island life. Residents deserve better.

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 important to residents. We will ask them six questions in total and will publish their answers in pairs over the next few issues.

Responses to the first two questions list incumbents first, followed by the other candidates in alphabetical order by last name. In the Oct. 17 issue, the order will be reversed, with a random order used in the Oct. 31 issue. All answers and campaign announcements can be found on our website.

1. Why are you running for office on Isle of Palms? What are your ideas for making life better for the residents of Isle of Palms?

JOHN BOGOSIAN (INCUMBENT)

Serving on City Council these past four years has been one of the greatest honors of my life. My wife, Carol, and I are proud to call Isle of Palms our home. Like so many of you, we chose this island because it is more than just a place to live—it is a community filled with natural beauty, neighborly spirit, family-owned businesses, and a way of life worth protecting. I am running for re-election because I want to continue working every day to safeguard what makes Isle of Palms so special while addressing the challenges that

come with growth, tourism, and changing times.

As our surrounding region grows, we face increasing challenges with traffic, parking, and the rapid expansion of visitors. Without thoughtful action, these pressures could disrupt the peace, character, and livability of our neighborhoods. My goal is to find a healthy balance where residents, businesses, and visitors all thrive together. That means improving traffic flow on key roads, such as Palm Boulevard, while protecting neighborhoods from overflow parking and enforcing livability rules that preserve the family-friendly nature of our community. It also means promoting Isle of Palms as a safe, welcoming, family-oriented destination that enhances, rather than overwhelms, our way of life.

Effective governance is at the heart of meeting these challenges. The City Council’s role is to provide proactive leadership, plan for the long term, and ensure that policies are implemented with accountability and transparency. I believe in keeping residents engaged through open communication, clear reporting, and advisory groups that give citizens a strong voice in shaping policy. Modern technology can help collect better data, track progress on major projects, and make city services more accessible to everyone.

A safe community is the foundation of everything we value. I am committed to giving our police, fire, and emergency responders the staffing, training,

and tools they need to keep our island safe. This includes active policing, competitive pay, transparent reporting of crime statistics, and strong preparation for hurricanes, flooding, and other emergencies.

As a former CEO and CFO, I also bring decades of experience in financial stewardship. Isle of Palms deserves a city government that is fiscally disciplined, transparent, and focused on long-term results. I will continue to safeguard taxpayer dollars, publish clear budget information, and ensure our investments bring measurable community benefits.

Finally, protecting the natural resources that make Isle of Palms unique is both an environmental responsibility and an economic necessity. I will advocate for beach renourishment, exploration of new erosion-control technologies, water-quality protections, sustainable development practices, and community education programs that encourage stewardship among residents and visitors alike.

My vision is simple: safer streets, stronger finances, robust beaches, and a community where residents come first. With your support, I will continue working to ensure Isle of Palms remains the safe, vibrant, and welcoming place we all love to call home.

KATIE MIARS (INCUMBENT)

I am running for City Council because I truly love this island and the people (Continued on page 7

IOP City Council Candidate Answers

Continued from page 6

who call it home. As I promised four years ago, I have worked hard for the residents. We have accomplished a lot, but I believe that with proper leadership and a City Council committed to putting residents first, we can do much more.

In the short term, we need to focus on livability. Our police force is outstanding, but they can only use the tools the city provides. If we give them the right tools, they can and will work to improve our quality of life and the enjoyment of the island for all who come here.

In the long term, we must develop a plan to address drainage, flooding and beach erosion in the face of sea level rise. We have made significant improvements to drainage, but many areas still flood during heavy rains. Pumping sand is increasingly expensive and will likely need to be done more often in the future. We must confront these issues head-on and find solutions that are both economically viable and environmentally sound.

DAVID COHEN

When I learned that two council members were not seeking reelection, I felt my 40-plus years as a resident and 10 years of service on the Planning Commission would be an asset to City Council.

I see a need to preserve a healthy business and tourism industry while ensuring it does not negatively affect the residential quality of life that drew me to the island. Along with the city’s continued focus on traffic and drainage issues, I believe we should develop long-term plans to protect the natural and community resources we currently enjoy.

LARRY KRAMER

My wife, Jody, and I moved to the Isle of Palms in January 2025. Jody, a United States Marine Corps Veteran; one of our sons, a current Marine Embassy Guard; and I—having led healthcare organizations that drive community wellness solutions—have always believed in contributing to our community and country. We feel strongly motivated to make a positive contribution to the Isle of Palms as our new home.

I approach this opportunity as a newcomer without any historic bias. I am a pragmatic neighbor who listens and gets things done. I believe that using my 38 years of executive leadership experience—working through complex issues, relying on fact-based information, collaborating as part of a team, and listening for understanding—can add value and help protect our island’s quality of life for residents, visitors, and future generations.

ZACH LARY

I saw an opportunity to add value and continue contributing to our community. I felt I could bring a fresh perspective to City Council. This island is my family’s home, where I am raising my daughters, and I feel an obligation to contribute to Isle of Palms in any way I can.

BEV MILLER

Isle of Palms is my home. My husband, Bob, and I first bought a home here in 2013 and made the island our permanent residence in 2016. Like many of you, we were drawn by the beach, the small-town atmosphere, and the strong sense of community. And, truthfully, we also knew our three daughters and their families would likely visit often.

Before moving here full-time, I advocated for my children in the public school system, which grew into broader advocacy at both the county and state levels of government. But it is local government—the level closest to the people—that matters most to me. Our homes, neighborhoods, and quality of life are the very things I am committed to protecting.

In 2021, when the state legislature attempted to impose parking requirements

(Continued on page 8)

IOP City Council Candidate Answers

Continued from page 7

on Isle of Palms, I viewed it as an overreach of state authority. That concern led me to join a resident group formed at then-Mayor Carroll’s request, which eventually became the Barrier Island Preservation Alliance. Since then, I have been an active voice for residents before City Council and the legislature, advocating for our community’s best interests.

Now, I am ready to serve directly—with integrity, a willingness to listen, and a focus on practical solutions that preserve the quality of life we all value. My priorities include:

Safety. Isle of Palms was once ranked the safest city in South Carolina. By 2025, we had fallen to No. 17. I am committed to strengthening police, fire, and emergency resources so we can return to the top.

Protecting Our Neighborhoods. Residents deserve the peaceful use of their homes. That requires consistent enforcement of our noise ordinance and maintaining the 2015 Parking Plan.

Managing Tourism Responsibly. Tourism is part of who we are, but it must be managed. I support a comprehensive Palm Boulevard plan that aligns short-term improvements with longterm traffic solutions, along with continued collaboration with Mount Pleasant and SCDOT to address Connector traffic in a way that balances resident needs with visitor access.

Preserving Our Residential Character. We

cannot go back to the past, but we can protect what we have. I am committed to keeping Isle of Palms rooted in our Comprehensive and Strategic Plans as a primarily residential, family-friendly community. I do not support resurrecting the referendum to cap short-term rentals. I do support a council policy that defines a desired balance of full-time residents, part-time homeowners, and short-term rentals.

I am running because I care deeply about the future of Isle of Palms. This is not just where I live—it is where I have chosen to put down roots and give back. With thoughtful leadership and collaboration, we can protect our neighborhoods, manage growth wisely, and preserve the character of our island for generations to come.

KRISTA SWINGLE

I love living here, and I truly care about our community. We are very blessed and fortunate to call this island home. It is important that we focus on protecting and improving our community, especially during the first warm Saturdays at the beginning of summer when traffic becomes gridlocked. We welcome 20,000 to 30,000 visitors who come to enjoy the beach for the day, and we must be creative with solutions. We absolutely need to ensure the 2015 parking plan is supported by City Council and the state. The Charleston

area is growing at a rapid rate, but Isle of Palms can’t get any bigger.

Now is the time to plan how we can manage traffic and day visitors to the island so everyone can get on and off as quickly as possible. Tourism is a vital part of our local economy, but we must be proactive and creative as Charleston continues to grow.

Also, I cannot stress this enough: We must prioritize safety. Safety — along with the beach — is the top reason many of us moved here, and we must keep our community safe. A couple of years ago, there was a shooting on the beach, and just this past week there was a carjacking at gunpoint on Folly Beach. These incidents were perpetrated by Charleston locals. Sadly, I see this as a reminder that we must ensure we have the safest community possible for our families. The best way to maintain our quality of life is by keeping our community safe.

ANDREW J. VEGA

I am running for office to ensure that any policy created, adjusted, or eliminated is done for the benefit of all residents. I want to make sure all consequences of a policy are considered and discussed before moving forward.

The best way to improve life for our residents is to continue fostering

(Continued on page 10)

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: MOJA Arts Festival

WHERE: Various WHEN: Sept. 25 – Oct. 5

MORE INFO: MOJA Arts Festival is an annual celebration of Black arts and culture and the related artistic contributions to the world, especially through African American and Caribbean legacies. Festival events include visual arts, music, food, dance, poetry, theater, storytelling, traditional crafts and family activities. In addition to its myriad of Arts presentations, MOJA also includes an active and busy educational outreach component of workshops in the public schools and senior outreach in community centers. Visit mojafestival.com for more info.

WHAT: Riverfront Revival

WHERE: Riverfront Park, 1061 Everglades Ave., North Charleston WHEN: Oct. 10 and 11

MORE INFO: For the fourth consecutive year, three-time GRAMMY Award-winner and Charleston native Darius Rucker has teamed up with SRE Entertainment to bring the highly anticipated Riverfront Revival music festival back to North Charleston’s Riverfront Park. In addition to Rucker, this year’s lineup will include another local legend, Bill Murray & His Blood Brothers. There will also be performances by Riley Green, The Red Clay Strays, Whiskey Myers, Flatland Cavalry, Lukas Nelson, Dylan Marlowe, Kashus Culpepper, Brittney Spencer, Clay Street Unit, Neon Union, Austin Williams, Daniel Donato’s Cosmic Country, Warrick McZeke, Faith Schueler, Whiskey Run, and Elizabeth Covington. Visit RiverfrontRevival.com for ticket options.

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.

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.

SATURDAY, OCT. 4

WHAT: The Isle of Palms Connector Run WHERE: IOP Connector WHEN: 8 a.m.

MORE INFO: 10K and 5K runners, walkers and teams of all experience levels and ages, will be rewarded with beautiful vistas of the Atlantic Ocean, Intracoastal Waterway, local creeks, marsh views and waterfowl. A post-race festival for the whole family will feature live music, free beer (21+), kids’ area, cash prizes, awards ceremony, and vendor exhibits. All funds raised go directly to local organizations for the prevention of child abuse and healing those affected by it.

WHAT: Lily Rose on the NÜTRL Beach Stage

WHERE: The Windjammer, 1008 Ocean Blvd., Isle of Palms

WHEN: Doors at 6 p.m.

MORE INFO: Atlanta, Georgia native Lily Rose burst onto the scene with her viral hit “Villain,” instantly propelling her into the national spotlight almost overnight. Signed to Big Loud Records / Back Blocks Music / Mercury Records, Lily toured with country’s hottest stars as she hungrily chased down her dreams.

WHAT: Oklahoma City Thunder vs. Charlotte Hornets

WHERE: North Charleston Coliseum, 5001 Coliseum Dr., North Charleston WHEN: 5 p.m.

MORE INFO: The Charlotte Hornets will host the reigning NBA Champion Oklahoma City Thunder at the North Charleston Coliseum for a preseason game. Tickets are available online at hornets.com, ticketmaster.com, and northcharlestoncoliseumpac.com.

TUESDAY, OCT. 7

WHAT: National Night Out

WHERE: Isle of Palms Recreation Center, 24 28th Ave. WHEN: 4:30 p.m. - 7 p.m.

MORE INFO: The Isle of Palms Police Department invites the community to join them for the 2025 National Night Out celebration. National Night Out is an annual campaign celebrated across the United States to foster strong relationships between law enforcement and the community, with the goal of creating safer, more caring neighborhoods. The evening will feature opportunities for residents to meet local police officers, explore public safety vehicles, enjoy free food and drinks, participate in family-friendly activities, and connect with community organizations.

WEDNESDAY, OCT. 8

WHAT: Watercolor Painting Classes

WHERE: Isle of Palms Recreation Center, 24 28th Ave. WHEN: 10 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

MORE INFO: Watercolor painting for beginners (10 a.m. to 1 p.m.) and intermediate painters (1:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.). Watercolor painting for beginner students will learn brush handling techniques as well as the basic ordering of layers to build a watercolor painting. Intermediate students go beyond flat layered washes and paint mixing and expand skills into complex wash techniques and learn to make choices from complex scenes, with clear value patterns and color compositions.

WHAT: Peach Pit on the NÜTRL Beach Stage

WHERE: The Windjammer, 1008 Ocean Blvd., Isle of Palms

WHEN: Doors at 6 p.m.

MORE INFO: Peach Pit has become a standout in indie rock, known for their ability to craft songs that are both sonically rich and emotionally resonant. Since their 2016 debut Sweet FA, the Vancou-

ver-based band have continuously evolved, expanding their sound while staying true to the heartfelt songwriting that first captured listeners’ attention.

THURSDAY, OCT. 9

WHAT: The Castellows on the NÜTRL Beach Stage

WHERE: The Windjammer, 1008 Ocean Blvd., Isle of Palms

WHEN: Doors at 6 p.m.

MORE INFO: Neo-Traditional Country music trio, The Castellows, bring a literal meaning to the phrase, “family tradition.” The band, comprised of sisters Ellie (lead guitar), Powell (banjo) and Lily (vocals), hail from small rural Georgetown, Georgia, but now call Nashville home.

FRIDAY, OCT. 10

WHAT: IOP Public Safety Open House

WHERE: Isle of Palms Public Safety Building, 30 J C Long Blvd.

WHEN: 4 p.m. - 6 p.m.

MORE INFO: Families can tour the fire station, learn how to use a fire hose, meet Sparky the Dog, enjoy inflatable fire house fun, and try rock climbing. The police department will also be open for tours, with cotton candy, an information booth, and vehicle displays. This is a free event.

WHAT: 21st Annual Fur Ball Gala

WHERE: Hotel Bennett, 404 King St, Charleston WHEN: 6 p.m. - 10 p.m.

MORE INFO: This annual event invites guests to an evening filled with fine dining, signature cocktails, live music, and both silent and live auctions — all in support of Pet Helpers’ life-saving mission. The night will be emceed by local host Erin Kienzle, and will include an exclusive raffle offering a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to win a dream vacation to Bali, Greece, Thailand, France, or Italy. Visit pethelpers.org/events/ fur-ball/ for more info.

SATURDAY, OCT. 11

WHAT: Cast Off Fishing Tournament

WHERE: Mt. Pleasant Pier, 71 Harry M. Hallman Jr. Blvd., Mt. Pleasant

WHEN: 7 a.m. - 2 p.m.

MORE INFO: The Mount Pleasant Pier offers fishing on the Charleston Harbor and under the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge. Opened in 2009, the pier is built on pilings from the old Silas N. Pearman Bridge, which have become a haven for many types of fish including red drum, spotted sea trout, flounder and sheepshead. Tournament offers awards for the Biggest 3 Fish by Weight, the Biggest Youth Catch (12 and under) and the Best 5 Fish (total weight). Participants are only eligible to win one category. Tournament registration fees are $12 for ages 13 and up, $9 for members of the military, $9 for seniors (60 and up), $9 for youth (12 and under), or $5 for fishing pass members. Adult chaperones are required for ages 15 and under. No pre-registration is required. On-site registration for tournaments begins the morning of the event.

WHAT: Navy 250th Celebration + Yorktown Veterans Meet & Greet

WHERE: Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum, 40 Patriots Point Rd., Mt. Pleasant

WHEN: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

MORE INFO: Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum will commemorate the U.S. Navy’s 250th anniversary with a special day of celebration aboard the historic aircraft carrier USS Yorktown (CV-10). In honor of the occasion, Patriots Point is offering $3 off all general admission tickets purchased in person on October 11.

IOP City Council Candidate Answers

Continued from page 8

relationships with neighboring communities. By strengthening these connections, council can make more informed local policy decisions and build support from regional stakeholders to better advocate with the county and state for resources to address road, traffic, and beach issues.

To make life better for residents, I believe council members should be willing to represent our community beyond the council chambers. A council member must be the face and brand of our community.

2. The beaches in many parts of the island are worse than they have ever been and worse than many surrounding communities. Do you believe this is an existential threat to the residential, rental, and business community, and what would you do to remedy this situation?

JOHN BOGOSIAN

The beaches of Isle of Palms are more than stretches of sand—they are the foundation of our community’s identity, economy, and way of life. Today, however, our beaches are in worse condition than ever, falling behind many surrounding coastal communities. This is not simply a cosmetic issue; it is an existential threat to our island’s future.

Our beaches are our greatest treasure. If we allow them to deteriorate, we put at risk the quality of life for residents, the strength of our rental market, and the businesses that depend on visitors choosing Isle of Palms over other destinations.

Healthy beaches sustain every part of our island:

•For residents: They provide recreation, protection from storms, and the natural beauty that makes Isle of Palms home.

•For rentals and tourism: They ensure clean, wide, welcoming shorelines that keep visitors returning year after year.

•For local businesses: They drive the foot traffic that restaurants, shops, bars, and service providers rely on to thrive.

If we allow our beaches to decline, we risk falling property values, shrinking tourism, and a weaker tax base that funds essential city services.

To protect and restore our beaches, I am committed to a multi-layered strategy:

•Accelerated renourishment: Launch proactive sand replenishment cycles before reaching crisis levels, while securing state and federal funding so residents aren’t carrying the full cost.

•Shoal management: Expand shoal realignment and dredging projects to keep sand flowing naturally to eroded areas.

•Protective infrastructure: Enhance dunes

with vegetation and fencing, while planning longterm for sea-level rise.

•Fiscal readiness: Pursue dedicated funding sources to maintain strong reserves for emergency repairs.

•Community transparency: Maintain a Beach Committee made up of residents to identify leading-edge erosion technologies and provide data-driven updates so everyone understands the challenges and solutions.

We cannot afford to wait and hope our beaches repair themselves—action is required now. I am committed to leading with urgency and collaboration, bringing residents, businesses, and regional partners together to secure the future of our shoreline. By protecting our beaches, we protect property values, strengthen our local economy, and preserve the island lifestyle we all cherish.

KATIE MIARS

The Beach Preservation Committee has worked hard to determine what a healthy beach looks like and what we need to do to get there. While adding sand to erosional areas provides a dry sand beach, we also need to understand the history and reasons for this erosion to determine an effective remedy.

The northeast end of the (Continued on page 11)

What We Said, We Did

• Saved the Maritime Forest and nature trails

• Committed to transparency by live streaming each council meeting, recording it and posting the video online

• Developed the Stormwater Master Plan

- Secured $14M of the required $17M via grant funding for first stages of the plan

- The remaining $3M is already in reserve

- Major drainage improvements are now underway

Citizen Susan Middaugh, 2420 Raven Drive, Sullivan’s Island, SC 29482

Mayor Pat O’Neil

Justin Novak

Gary Visser

Scott Millimet

IOP City Council Candidate Answers

Continued from page 10

island experiences erosional and accretional cycles. Historically, the city, Wild Dunes, and state and federal agencies have shared the cost of keeping sand on the beach. As state and federal funding becomes harder to secure, the city and Wild Dunes need to meet and determine a path forward that is fair and sustainable for both parties.

The southwest end of the island has generally been accretional, going back as far as maps of the island exist. This began to change slowly around 2009 and more noticeably over the past three to five years. While the solution may still involve adding sand, I believe we first need to understand the cause of this change. What has happened in the last 15–20 years that has caused this area to lose rather than gain sand? Until we identify the cause, our attempts to fix the problem may continue to be swept away and could even be ineffective.

DAVID COHEN

Erosion issues on barrier islands are nothing new. While erosion can be disastrous for individual property owners, I would not consider it an existential threat to the island as a whole. The city has and continues to monitor and plan for beach and dune renourishment. I do believe the city could be more aggressive in securing state funding and grants. Funding for these efforts is limited, so we need to make the best use of available resources to benefit the entire island. While we are reacting to issues identified in the current Beachfront Management Plan, we should also begin planning for funding and implementation of future renourishment projects.

LARRY KRAMER

Safeguarding the Future of Isle of Palms Beaches

Yes. Based on my research, if erosion continues at current rates in the most impacted areas, the island faces locally existential threats due to potential property loss, declining rental demand, infrastructure vulnerability, and a negative impact on the community identity as a destination with healthy beaches. Engineering consultants indicate that certain sections— such as Beachwood East, Seascape, and Ocean Club in Wild Dunes—are in “emergency condition” zones, and current erosion outpaces natural replenishment. This suggests that some areas may eventually become too difficult to protect.

Some options currently being pursued include:

• Emergency Fixes Only: Quick relief, such as sandbags and trucking, but forecasted to be unsustainable. I support this approach along with additional long-term “protect in place” strategies.

•Protect in Place Strategies: Proactive nourishment and dune restoration—large-scale nourishment every 4–8 years with dune rebuilding, planting, fencing, and managed public access. Includes shoal management projects. Dune systems provide the best long-term defense for barrier islands and are cost-effective over time. I support ongoing planning and execution along with building an enhanced 20-year plan.

•Hybrid/Managed Retreat: Protect key zones while planning voluntary buyouts in unsustainable areas. I do not currently support a managed retreat implementation plan, but it should remain part of the discussion regarding feasibility and cost.

My Recommendations (open to review, feedback, and implementation):

•Continue driving long-term “protect in place” strategies while evaluating alternative approaches required for FEMA and other sustained funding sources.

•Adopt a 20-year plan: regular nourishment, dune rebuilding, and shoal management projects. Secure and prioritize recurring funding from multiple sources: city beach preservation fees, transient

(Continued on page 12)

IOP City Council Candidate Answers

Continued from page 11

occupancy/tourism taxes, county/state grants, USACE partnerships, and FEMA public assistance. Small local projects can use the city’s Beach Preservation Fund, while larger projects can leverage Corps funding.

•Strengthen ordinances: enforce setbacks, protect dunes, support science-based renourishment, and consistently enforce permitting rules.

•Engage the community: share clear data, explain funding needs, involve residents, improve monitoring and transparency, fund yearly volume and profile monitoring, publish anticipated nourishment windows, and create a clear communication plan for rentals and businesses.

•Plan ahead: explore and pilot alternative programs in the most vulnerable zones.

Bottom Line:

Without enhanced planning and action, erosion is an existential threat to IOP’s homes, rentals, and economy. With smart long-term planning, secured funding, and community buy-in, the Isle of Palms can protect its shoreline, preserve property values, and sustain tourism for the next generation.

ZACH LARY

This issue disproportionately impacts our beachfront residents, particularly in certain parts of the island. Yes, I see this as a threat to those residents, but I do not view the erosion as an existential threat to our rental or business communities.

The beach is a complex issue, and it is our responsibility to address it in a way that is conscientious of the island’s ecosystems. I do not have a clearcut solution at this time, but I am open to evaluating all options. I remain optimistic that advancements in AI and technology will allow us to address this more effectively over time.

Bev Miller

Yes, I do. Our beaches are the single greatest resource we have—the foundation of why people pay a premium to live here, why families visit, and why businesses thrive. If that resource is compromised, we all lose: residents, renters, investors, and business owners alike.

We’ve seen this before. The renourishment projects in 2008 and 2017 required enormous financial investment but produced limited, short-lived results. Now, in 2025, we are again spending heavily on emergency sandbags—a reactive measure that repeats the past without solving the underlying problem. Something has to change.

The core issue is the absence of a comprehensive, long-term beach preservation plan. We need a strategy that goes beyond temporary fixes and outlines what it will take to maintain a sustainable dry-sand beach along our coastline. That means measurable goals, defined steps, and timelines—so that in eight years, when the next renourishment cycle arrives, we are ready rather than scrambling.

We cannot keep treating this as a short-term problem or push the costs to future councils and residents. We need a proactive approach now—one that brings together city leaders, state agencies, and federal partners to ensure coordinated action, secure sustainable funding, and deliver a longrange vision equal to the challenge.

I look to the Beach Preservation Ad Hoc Committee and fully support its recommendations on restoration policies, proactive erosion response, and consistent funding mechanisms. Their work provides the foundation we must build upon.

This isn’t just about sand—it’s about protecting homes, livelihoods, and the stability of our local economy. When homes or supporting structures collapse into the ocean, the impact on that homeowner is catastrophic. But the collateral damage extends much further: surrounding properties lose value, rental markets are disrupted, businesses suffer from reduced tourism, and—perhaps most concerning—insurance companies begin to withdraw from barrier-island coverage altogether. Without decisive action, the risks are catastrophic. We must treat this as the existential challenge it is—and act with urgency, vision, and commitment.

KRISTA SWINGLE

We live on a barrier island that has historically experienced beach erosion. I agree this is a critical community issue, even if the entire beach is not affected. During high tides, several areas have little to no dry sand, which has led people to sit, relax and walk in the dunes. We need a dry sand beach at all tide levels so we can all enjoy it, our children can play on it, and turtles have a place to nest.

I also empathize with those whose homes have been damaged. Property damage to oceanfront homes could affect the entire community, including those of us who live on the back side of the island, by driving up insurance premiums. The loss of usable beach at high tide also threatens our economy, which relies heavily on tourism to help keep taxes low. It would not take much for visitors to shift their vacation destinations.

As we all know, the ocean has the final say regardless of the measures we take. I would like to re-evaluate the Beach Committee’s recommendations and take action. However, it is absolutely critical that we get help from the state. We live on a public beach that generates significant revenue, and beach expenditures should not be our sole responsibility. I am hopeful the state will step in, perhaps using surplus funds, to support renourishment.

ANDREW J. VEGA

I have spent more than a year working on the Beach Preservation Ad Hoc Committee, and Isle of Palms is not the only barrier island in South Carolina affected by erosion. As part of the committee’s work, we presented actionable items for council to approve and fund. I stand behind those recommendations to adopt a schedule and budget for beach nourishment to preserve a dry sand beach and dunes.

Sullivan’s Island Candidates Share Views on Key Community Issues

The Island Eye News asked the one candidate for mayor and the five candidates for three open spots on the Sullivans Island Town Council for their opinions on several questions that we think are important to the people of Sullivan’s Island. We will ask them six questions in total and will publish their answers in pairs over the next few issues. Here are the answers they provided for the first two questions - broken up by seat they are running for and with incumbents listed first, listed alphabetical by last. We will do the reverse in the Oct. 17 issue and then a random order in the Oct. 31 issue. All answers and campaign announcements can be found on our website.

1. Why are you running for office on Sullivan’s Island? What are your ideas for making life better for the residents of Sullivan’s Island?

MAYOR

PATRICK O’NEIL (INCUMBENT)

I am running this year for the same reason I ran in all my previous island elections: to help preserve and enhance the attributes and resources that make this such a special place.

During my years on Council and as mayor, I believe I have demonstrated the stable, inclusive leadership, integrity, vision, and reasonableness needed to continue maximizing the island’s quality of life. We have begun work on an ambitious stormwater management project to address longstanding

flooding problems, developed master plans to guide decision-making on long-term projects such as resilience and Stith Park, and continued to actively protect important natural resources, including the Maritime Forest.

I am asking voters to give me the opportunity to advance these initiatives toward completion, continue ensuring the town’s strong financial position, and maintain an open, inclusive approach to government.

TOWN COUNCIL

SCOTT MILLIMET (INCUMBENT)

When I look at the four major initiatives behind my election four years ago, I can put a check mark by each: preserve the maritime forest, reject islandwide paid parking, maintain and enhance our unique historical heritage, and increase the transparency of our governing process. I kept my word.

Furthermore, the current council has managed the budget process with a fine-point pencil — incurring zero net new debt, paying down almost $4 million of outstanding debt, and increasing our fiscal year-end cash reserves by more than 20% to approximately $11 million.

I am eager to continue effectively serving my community and preserving our island home. It is my way of giving back, in a small way, to a country and community that have given my family and me so much. Some of the key objectives from the previ-

ous four years have changed, but my commitment to achieving our goals and enhancing the quality of life on Sullivan’s Island has not.

Critical infrastructure projects related to stormwater management are in the early stages. Substantial funding has been received, but the project will take several years and require millions of dollars in additional funding. I plan to be part of the execution team.

Preservation of our island’s natural beauty is, and will be, a task now and for all future generations. That requires striking a balance between preservation and accessibility. We have hired a director of resilience and natural resources to help us balance these objectives on a go-forward basis.

As chair of the Finance Committee, the work we have begun on enhanced budgetary transparency via the breakout of the capital budget (with online access) has further to go. I will ensure that happens while keeping our fiscal house in order and maintaining our Aa1 credit rating.

Finally, I hope over the next four-year term to meet more of you, the voters, for one-on-one discussions. Together we can find effective solutions that will continue to make life better for us all.

JUSTIN NOVAK (INCUMBENT)

My family fell in love with Sullivan’s Island because of the unique sense of place and community on this beautiful barrier (Continued on page 14)

SI Candidate Answers

Continued from page 13

island. Four years ago, I ran for town council to ensure the town worked to preserve and protect the history, character, and charm of our island, keeping it an exceptional place to live, raise families, and welcome friends and neighbors. I also wanted to make sure all residents were part of the conversation.

Over the past four years, our island has succeeded in preserving that sense of place and community despite the pressures of unprecedented growth around us. We have achieved long-term goals, including transitioning to a new town administrator, increasing avenues for public participation, restoring the integrity of the police department, retaining the island’s first director of natural resource management, and securing a water supply sufficient to meet residents’ needs for the next 40 years.

We have also preserved and improved public spaces by repairing and enhancing the island’s stormwater infrastructure, re-nourishing large portions of our beaches, developing a plan to improve Stith Park, and maintaining access to our natural areas. These spaces provide respite for residents, habitat for the island’s birds, and protection from flooding and storm surge. Moreover, we have accomplished these goals collaboratively and responsibly, carefully analyzing costs and benefits, aggressively seeking outside funding, and maximizing interest earned on emergency and capital reserves.

As a parent of two young children growing up on the island, I want to ensure the town continues this work to preserve our sense of place and community for generations. I believe I have the knowledge, experience, and temperament to help residents understand our challenges, evaluate options objectively, and participate in developing effective strategies that maintain the island’s special character. As a member of town council, I will continue to keep residents informed, listen to their concerns and suggestions, and work to preserve and protect what makes Sullivan’s Island an exceptional place to call home.

GARRY VISSER (INCUMBENT)

I am running for a second term on Town Council to:

• Continue our work to preserve community resources, such as the maritime forest.

• Ensure our water and sewer systems comply with all regulations while protecting our natural environment.

• Preserve and protect our resilience to storms and flooding by limiting utility tree cutting.

To make life better for the residents of Sullivan’s Island, I will continue our commitment to open public meetings and engagement. It’s not only good for residents, town staff, boards, commissions, and Town Council—it’s the law.

MELANIE BURKHOLD

I am running for Sullivan’s Island Town Council because I believe it is time to chart a different course—one that unites our community through strong resident involvement. I envision a government that inspires participation and listens to every voice. I will ensure that the voices of Sullivan’s Island residents are central in addressing our issues.

I propose implementing town halls for critical topics, fostering the exchange of ideas, resident-driven solutions, and community unity. I also support extending public speaking time at town council meetings from two to three minutes to better align with common standards.

I believe addressing our challenges—such as debt, infrastructure, maintenance, and transparency—must begin with listening to the taxpayers of Sullivan’s Island. I am running to give you your voice.

LAURA SCHROEDER

Serving on the Sullivan’s Island Planning Commission for the past five years has given me an insider’s look at how the town is run. I consistently see decisions made without regard for cost or consideration of what the majority of residents want. Many neighbors have shared concerns about the town’s $38 million debt—how it was spent and the real possibility of future tax increases.

Instead of focusing on essentials, the council has pursued projects like pocket parks that most residents didn’t ask for and knew little about, as well as murals on historic structures. These projects risk bringing more traffic, noise, and even public safety issues. Recently, one town-owned parcel slated for a pocket park drew overnight visitors—including one with a 24-page criminal record. These projects reflect the wants of a few, not the needs of the community. Meanwhile, real problems are going unaddressed. Grants secured years ago

to fix severe flooding are at risk of being eliminated because the town failed to act, forcing residents to endure worsening flooding year after year. Cove Creek, the marsh, and the entire island face a sea-level rise crisis: increased flooding, erosion, storm surge, property impacts, and infrastructure stress where drainage cannot keep up. Yet little real progress has been made toward actual resiliency.

I’m running because I believe Sullivan’s Island needs thoughtful, disciplined leadership focused on the issues that truly matter to residents.

We need accountable spending and, most of all, true transparency in governing and decision-making. Sullivan’s Island deserves better.

2. Do you think Sullivan’s Island’s electrical lines should be buried? How would such a project be paid for?

MAYOR

PATRICK O’NEIL (INCUMBENT)

We have heard from many residents who think we should bury the lines, and there would be several advantages—as well as some downsides. But first, we need to fully understand what would be involved in undergrounding our electrical system. As we have done with other large-scale projects—stormwater management, sewer system upgrades, zoning ordinance revisions—we need to acquire the expertise to advise us on how such a project should be designed, what would be required, how to develop a long-range plan to achieve it (if we decide to proceed), and what it might cost.

We have been working with Dominion Energy to issue a request for proposals for consultant teams that can provide the necessary expertise. The work by the selected team will be funded through money already dedicated to special Dominion projects on the island. The RFP will be issued in the coming weeks and will begin the process of gathering the information needed to make informed decisions on this important matter. Stay tuned!

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SI Candidate Answers

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Town Council

SCOTT MILLIMET (INCUMBENT)

The town has engaged Dominion Energy to develop a plan and cost estimate for sinking the power lines on the island that are not already underground. The resulting costs may well be in the tens of millions. A primary objective of this infrastructure project would be to avoid the massive trimming every five years of the oaks that overlay the power lines.

In a perfect world, with unlimited funds, the easy answer would be to bury the lines and save the trees. However, I have no quick answer for sourcing funds — regardless of the eventual cost. Funds can only come from higher taxes, issuance of debt or outside grants. The first two are not appealing.

As with any capital expenditure, the primary considerations will be: 1) must-have projects vs. nice-to-have projects, 2) availability and source of funds, and 3) the time frame over which the project can be extended. The current stormwater infrastructure upgrades fall in the “must-have” category, are already underway and are a priority. The first phase of the stormwater project is funded, but there are more phases to come and funding to source. Any consideration of sinking the power lines must be viewed through that lens.

JUSTIN NOVAK (INCUMBENT)

Sullivan’s Island is a uniquely beautiful barrier island community, and we should continue to improve public spaces by exploring the relocation of the island’s overhead power lines underground while prioritizing continuity and reliability of service. In addition to potential maintenance and service benefits—such as reducing outages caused by wind, trees, animals, or vehicles—burying the island’s power lines would improve the island’s appearance, eliminate the risk of accidents from downed lines, and reduce hazards from tree trimming near active lines. It would also provide long-term relief from the recurring disruption our community experiences every five years during Dominion’s tree-cutting and removal projects.

These steps are already in progress. Last year, the town committed to obtaining an island-wide comprehensive engineering plan for burying the power lines using the non-standard service fund—a fund capitalized by equal contributions from the utility and its island customers through the utility’s franchise agreement with the town. This fund is designed specifically for capital improvements outside the standard utility service. The plan will establish a proposed grid layout, switchgear box locations, and street lighting configurations, and identify required property easements and construction costs. A formal request for proposals from qualified engineering firms is expected to be advertised in the coming months.

Once the town has a comprehensive engineering plan, the community can assess the feasibility of completing parts of the project as they become economically viable. The community will also need to decide whether to grant Dominion the easements and rights-of-way necessary to place the new power lines and switchgear boxes. As in other communities that have undertaken similar capital improvements, I would prefer a funding mechanism that includes contributions from Dominion, funding from the town, and, if necessary, deferred funding from consumers.

GARRY VISSER (INCUMBENT)

I do think Sullivan’s Island electrical lines should be buried, and I serve on the Council committee meeting with Dominion Energy to begin those negotiations.

Their objections have been:

• Uncertain costs, which they should know from their work burying lines at the east and west ends of the island.

• Uncertainty about disruption to other buried utilities, though the town has invested in precise location information for our water and sewer lines.

• I would also demand that Dominion credit back to Sullivan’s Island the money budgeted for the next 20-plus years to continue trimming our trees.

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SI Candidate Answers

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MELANIE BURKHOLD

If elected, I will advocate for a town hall to address critical issues, including burying the power lines. I encourage every Sullivan’s Island resident to watch the May 21, 2024, town council meeting at the one-hour mark, where Dominion Energy representatives spoke about this issue. Here are my main takeaways:

The power lines buried at stations 28, 29, and 30, and those past Fort Moultrie, were done due to “load” issues, at a cost to Dominion Energy. To bury the remaining lines, Dominion Energy would need private easements at most intersections and a town ordinance requiring every resident to convert. The projected cost is more than $60 million, creating an additional financial burden on a community already $38 million in debt.

Overhead power lines are exposed to wind, rain, and tree damage but are easier and cheaper to repair after storms, with problems easier to locate. Underground lines are more vulnerable to water intrusion, costlier to fix, and can still be damaged by storms. Contrary to popular belief, representatives noted that locating and repairing underground damage after major storms can be more challenging than with overhead lines.

If elected, I will propose town halls for major projects like burying the power lines. I will

Residents of Sullivan’s Island come here for a low key lifestyle, gorgeous beaches, and are opposed to adding amenities that attract more noise, traffic and pollution.

prioritize these meetings before initiating costly studies to ensure resident input shapes decisions and reflects the community’s priorities.

LAURA SCHROEDER

I support burying power lines, especially in a coastal community like ours, where hurricanes and outages are a constant threat. It would also end Dominion’s practice of trimming and damaging our beautiful trees every few years—something that sparks public outcry each time, and rightfully so.

Funding should not fall entirely on the town budget. Dominion runs a Strategic Underground Program that targets outage-prone lines and helps offset costs. Beyond that, federal and state grants exist to help communities like ours, including Department of Energy Grid Resilience Grants and others designed to fund undergrounding projects. These programs are intended to strengthen infrastructure against extreme weather.

The key is leadership.

Sullivan’s Island should press Dominion to prioritize our island in their program while working with state and federal partners to compete for these resilience dollars. This approach protects residents, hardens the grid, and reduces long-term costs without raising local taxes.

Sullivan’s Island Plans New Tree List to Guide Residents and Builders

By Joshua Uys

At its Sept. 16 meeting, Sullivan’s Island Town Council unanimously approved funding to update the island’s tree replacement list, an essential tool in the town’s long-standing tree preservation efforts.

The list, which guides both contractors and residents, outlines tree species suitable for the island’s sandy soils and salt-rich environment. Contractors are required to select replacements from the list when removing trees during construction,

(Continued on page 19)

The residents want to address the issues we feel are most important. We care about things like stormwater management, Cove Creek drainage, repairing the playground and focusing on maintenance of town-owned properties and facilities. The parking/curbing in the business district urgently needs an update. This town needs to stop trying to add swimming pools, pocket parks and trails. The town currently has $38 million of debt. We need leaders with a strong sense of fiscal responsibility who will prioritize the projects that mean the most to residents.

We the residents should have more public input on spending and large projects. The maritime forest trail extension is the prime example of lack of transparency

by town government, which many residents found out about by seeing bulldozers from their backyards. The same people who fought against cutting the maritime forest four years ago are the ones who voted to cut roughly one acre of land to accommodate the nature path.

How did we end up with….

• A mural on Battery Thompson that cost thousands of dollars and does nothing to improve the needs of residents.

• A fleet of 42 town-owned vehicles (including 24 for personal use by town employees).

• Pumping stations that are an eyesore.

• A controversial “welcoming” sign that did not reflect the opinions of many of the residents

Please consider electing Melanie Burkhold and Laura Schroeder to the town council who will support the residents’ needs first and do so with a respect for the money all of us pay in taxes.

A CASE

FOR CHANGE ON SULLIVAN’S ISLAND

SIGNATURES

Laura and Tim Bryan

Dorinda and Benton Burroughs

Jerry Callahan

Kim and Tim Cook

Elizabeth and Billy Craver

Katharine and John Crawford

Amy Davidson

Tori and Greg Deaton

Carol and Paul Fletcher

Kathy and Bob Heller

Meg and Buddy Howle

Paige and Tommy Hutto

Glen and John Jeffries

Jane and Jay Keenan

Kat Kenyon

Joy Morris

Page Morris

Dawn and Chris Orr

Raye Ann and Granger Osborne

Dale Poulnot

Sallie Pritchard

Angie and Kurt Polk

Pam and Bill Rayburn

Linda and Del Schutte

Barbara and David Spell

Isle of Palms Works to Improve Public Safety at Marina Boat Ramp

By Nicole Seitz

The Isle of Palms City Council lauded the heroic actions of Robert Heaton and Thomas “Brandon” Blackwell at its Sept. 23 meeting. Heaton received the Isle of Palms Signal 30 Award from Mayor Phillip Pounds and the city council following a recommendation from IOP Police Chief Kevin Cornett.

According to Cornett, “On Aug. 23, 2025, an individual driving through the parking lot of the IOP Marina accidentally drove his vehicle down the boat ramp into Morgan Creek… Without hesitation, [Heaton and Blackwell] got into the water and worked to rescue the occupant from the vehicle that was quickly sinking… Mr. Heaton and Mr. Blackwell took actions that were truly heroic and without question resulted in saving a person from what could have been a very tragic incident.”

Video released by the IOP Police on social media shows the rescue occurred with seconds to spare as the vehicle was nearly fully submerged.

down the same boat ramp. Both awards were recommended by Chief Cornett.

GPS Confusion

Currently, a Google Maps directions request for Isle of Palms Marina or Islander 71 leads to the same tract of city-owned land, which is leased by two tenants. GPS directions guide drivers along a road in the parking lot that no longer exists. Additionally, 41st Avenue appears to end at the boat ramp and water’s edge on the app.

Peter Giusti, a rideshare driver, had responded to a call from a patron at Islander 71 during a heavy rainstorm. At the Sept. 23 council meeting, Giusti attended alongside Heaton’s family members.

“I owe him my life,” Giusti said of Heaton. “That night I was trying to get as close as I could so they didn’t have to walk through the rain. I was going point-zero-zero-zero miles per hour and suddenly went off the ramp.”

When asked what should be done to improve safety at the boat ramp, Giusti suggested more signs, large flashing yellow lights, and a prominent white strip on the ground indicating “Stop.” “I hope you resolve the problem,” he said, “or it will happen again.”

Second Boat Ramp Rescue in One Year

The Isle of Palms Signal 30 Award is a rare designation for exceptional citizen service. Heaton’s award was only the 12th given since the program began in 2002 — and the second in a row for a marina boat ramp rescue.

Exactly one year earlier, on Sept. 23, 2024, Johnny Himmelsbach received the Signal 30 Award after rescuing a couple whose vehicle accidentally rolled

The property has undergone renovations over the past two years, including updates to the parking lot. Historical Google Earth images show GPS directions were accurate until 2024, when the addition of a private fenced-in dry boat storage area changed traffic patterns. Today, following GPS instructions can lead drivers around the fence and dangerously close to the boat ramp.

New Safety Measures

Since last month’s incident, the city has acted to improve safety. Two red reflective signs and white road strips were already in place, and last week two orange reflective spring bars were replaced on the dock after being damaged by vehicles.

GPS data is still outdated, but Chief Cornett has submitted corrections to Google, which are currently under review. He emphasized that drivers remain responsible for operating vehicles safely, even when using GPS. “The GPS devices should be seen as a tool to assist a driver but should not be something that a driver solely relies on for safe operation,” he said.

To further reduce confusion, Chief Cornett has worked with marina manager Scott O’Toole to install two directional signs on the boat lot fence visible to drivers leaving Islander 71: “ Boat Ramp” and “Exit .” He also ordered reflective signs reading “Boat Ramp” with solar-powered, battery-backed flashing LED lights, which Public Works expects to install soon.

“We have taken steps to help provide drivers with signage to hopefully prevent this from happening again,” Cornett said. “We will continue to work with the team at the IOP Marina to make the boat ramp as noticeable as possible.”

Boat ramp on Sept. 24, 2025, with reflective signs and spring bars.

Message From The Sullivan’s Island Mayor

Dear Island Neighbors,

This year, in addition to the lovely light, the changing marsh grass turning golden yellow and the end of summer heat and humidity, fall is bringing us town elections.

As previously noted, along with a number of other area municipalities, we have had to change our town election date to Tuesday, Nov. 4, from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., as usual at Sunrise Presbyterian Church. The Charleston County Board of Elections and Voter Registration is handling all aspects of the election.

We will be electing three councilmembers and a mayor. You can see the candidates who will be on the ballot here: bit.ly/2025SICandidates. Just hit “Search” and scroll down for the list.

Early voting will be available at several county locations, including Seacoast Church in Mount Pleasant, starting Monday, Oct. 20. More information is available here: bit.ly/2025SIEarlyVoting. As always, absentee voting is also available.

Don’t forget to vote!

Rumor Mill Update

I’m sure it’s unrelated to the above, but the rumor mill seems to be operating at warp speed these days. The common theme is confusing consideration of ideas and advice with adoption of those ideas and advice.

A few weeks ago, we received several emails from residents asking us to delay a scheduled vote at our September meeting to accept the long-aborning resilience plan prepared by our contracted consultants. (As it turns out, the consultants needed extra time for final edits, so the plan will be on our October council meeting agenda.)

These emails expressed concern about the level of public notice and input related to this important project. In fact, this grant-supported planning effort has been discussed repeatedly over the last couple of years, including presentations at public meetings and less formal, advertised open houses at Town Hall.

There were also concerns about the potential costs of implementing all the items suggested in the draft plan.

Well, if that vote were to approve implementing anything or everything in the plan, I would absolutely agree with the need to back off and go slow. However, despite some widespread claims, nothing could be farther from the truth. We were not, and are not, preparing to vote on committing to any

item in that report.

As the town traditionally does when we approach a large-scale challenge that requires expertise far beyond what we have internally, we solicit proposals from professional teams for assessment, consultation and guidance. We evaluate the candidate teams, select the proposal that appears best suited for the town and engage them to provide us with a comprehensive assessment and recommendations. In effect, we are asking the experts, “What are our choices in addressing this issue, and what might be our plan?”

When we accept their report, it is only that: we accept receipt of their report and plan as the work product that fulfills their contractual obligations.

That in no way means we agree to do any or all things in their plan. Those decisions are always reserved for later study, discussion and consideration by council.

This is nothing new. The town has always followed this approach to ensure that when we decide to take on major projects requiring large amounts of taxpayer dollars, we are basing that decision on the best available information and guidance.

In all cases, there is ample open communication by the consultants to apprise residents of what they are considering and to solicit feedback. (But in no case do the consultants get to make the town’s decisions.)

Examples include:

•Major rehab and replacement of the water distribution system

•Major rehab and replacement of the wastewater (sewer) collection and treatment systems

•Major review and modernization of our zoning ordinance

•Potential comprehensive updating of Stith Park. This has included an iterative series of charrettes and open town hall meetings to solicit resident input. (Contrary to the rumor mill, everything in these drafts was clearly designated as potential. In particular, the swimming pool was considered and then ruled out based on resident feedback.)

•Island-wide stormwater management plan. (We broke ground last week on work in the first two areas.)

•(Coming soon, with Dominion Energy) Island-wide evaluation of what would be involved in moving our electrical distribution system—parts or all of it—underground.

In short, we may vote to accept delivery of a con-

sultants’ report as the contracted-for work product. That does not mean we are agreeing to implement anything in it without a great deal of study by relevant town boards and commissions, council committees and council as a whole—all in public.

Similarly, our town council committees are often the first groups to consider new ideas or suggestions for the town. Consideration is not adoption. It’s what we need to do to be responsive to citizen and board or commission input.

Recently, our Recreation Committee considered, at a public meeting, the possibility of using one of our many back-beach Station dead ends (town property) as a passive park. This would possibly be a place for a bench or two and a couple of golf carts (no cars) for folks to sit for a spell to watch the marsh and boats, on a tiny patch of land that is already accessible to all. This idea had been suggested by a couple of residents over the years and by our Comprehensive Plan.

At the Recreation Committee’s publicly advertised meeting, the committee received feedback from a number of residents opposed to the idea and very few in support, so they did not recommend that council pursue the idea at this time. As Committee Chair Ned Higgins said so aptly: “This is what you want your government to do: Receive ideas, solicit public input on them, discuss the ideas and input, and make decisions based on that process.”

See you around the island!

Mayor Pat O’Neil

843-670-9266

oneilp@sullivansisland.sc.gov

Op-Ed: Choose Leaders Who Put Isle of Palms Residents First

By Jeff Simon

I have lived on this island since 1976. I raised my children here and now have grandchildren who are being raised here too. I served on City Council in the early ’90s, ran for mayor and was soundly defeated by the legendary Carmen Bunch. I coached the first Isle of Palms youth baseball team to win in the district playoffs (it was less my coaching skills than the future professional baseball player at shortstop and two decorated Army Rangers in the outfield).

Island kids are different. That was a phrase you heard often, though some times said pejoratively. Our island is a special place. These are my bona fides.

I was in favor of a cap on short-term rentals, but that issue was defeat ed and I sense little appetite to resurrect it. It cannot win. I have come to believe that the real estate community is probably correct: House prices and mortgage rates make an STR investment, as a profit-making enterprise, very problematic. However, it has now become a useful scare tactic and political strategy. It is a prominent feature of several candidates’ platforms. This tells you everything you need to know about their focus. They can sugarcoat their platforms with the words “family” and “residential quality,” but when all is peeled away, these candidates see this island primarily as an economic engine. They are entitled to this view; the question is, do you?

Halloween Golf Cart Parade & Carnival

Isle of Palms Recreation Center to host Halloween Golf Cart Parade and Carnival

My island politics are radical residential. Whether you come here as a short-term renter or day-tripper, you are visiting our home, and you can’t put your feet up on the cocktail table—because we say so—contrary to what one candidate’s literature says about his complete dislike of regulations.

Isle of Palms politics has always been a contact sport. We fight hard, but when it’s over, we touch gloves and go back to business and family. Regardless of political views, we will need each other when the next Hugo comes, as it surely will.

It is worth your time and effort to understand who each of these candidates really are and what they stand for. There are newbies who, while their offer is appreciated, have not put in the time or effort (on boards or commissions, etc.) to really understand our unique community and its needs. There are wolves in sheep’s clothing who clearly have an agenda other than what they advertise. And then there are citizen-residents who will be honest servants for a family-centered, residential community. Choose wisely. It really does matter.

Jeff Simon Hartnett Blvd

New Tree List

Continued from page 16

while residents often consult it when planting on their properties.

The update will be funded through the South Carolina Forestry Commission, with the town contributing a 20% match, covered through a mix of funds or staff time. That brings the total cost to the town to just $1,500. The project was recommended by the island’s Tree Commission, which oversees educational programming and replacement policies.

Sullivan’s Island has been recognized nationally since 2016 as a “Tree City USA Community.” Building on that status, the town has set a goal of increasing canopy coverage by 1% over the next 15 years. A recent canopy analysis by the Green Infrastructure Center highlights which properties are contributing toward that goal and which are falling behind.

Beyond the list itself, the town is considering ways to make the information more accessible. Ideas include interpretive signage along beach access points and within the maritime forest to illustrate the island’s diverse growing conditions. The visuals will be informative for residents and correlate to lists of suitable tree and non-tree species for each zone.

“We have a lot of little microhabitats on the island,” said Rebecca Fanning, Sullivan’s Island director of resilience and natural resource management. “The signage will help residents choose species uniquely adapted to their location.”

Mayor Patrick O’Neil voiced his support, noting that the effort balances education with flexibility. “I like the idea of producing a document like this,” he said. “A noncompulsory way to encourage right tree, right place planting.”

By Owen Bailey

The Isle of Palms Recreation Center will host its Halloween Golf Cart Parade and Carnival on Thursday, Oct. 31, from 4 to 6 p.m.

Participants can register for the parade at iop.net. Prizes will be awarded to the top three decorated golf carts.

Following the parade, everyone is invited to the Halloween Carnival, which will feature a drive-through haunted house, children’s entertainment, food and sweets vendors, and more.

•Supported new Police Chief, taking department to new levels of professionalism and community engagement

•Ensured smooth transition to Administrator Joe Henderson

•Launched new projects, e.g., major stormwater upgrades

•Guided onboarding and integration of an energetic new Town Council

•Maintained excellent Moody’s credit rating of Aa1

Letter to the Editor: Sullivan’s Island residents deserve more transparency

To the editor:

Transparency means more than just advertising public meetings and posting minutes. Transparency is about fostering trust, accountability and meaningful engagement with residents.

To cite a recent personal experience on Sullivan’s Island: On Aug. 19, I sent an email to the town clerk asking for information regarding the Sea Level Rise Adaptation and Resilience Plan — how much the contract with the consultants was, how many consulting firms were paid for their involvement in the plan and whether grant funding was used to fund the project.

So how did the town respond?

I received an email stating that I would need to submit a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request in order to get the information.

Recall that Town Council voted in April 2024 to award the contract for the Resilience Plan to the consultants.

So why is it that, well over a year later, the town requires a resident to submit a FOIA request to find out how much the consultants were paid and the source of funding?

Sounds like there are good reasons the call for more transparency from Town Council is a recurring theme this campaign season.

Barbara Spell

Atlantic Avenue

Letter

to

the Editor: Sullivan’s

Island Making Progress on Flood Mitigation

By Justin Novak, Sullivans Island Town Councilmember

One of the joys of serving on the Sullivan’s Island Town Council is seeing progress on projects that will significantly improve life on the island. As fortunate residents of this uniquely beautiful barrier island, we enjoy historic small-town charm, a relaxed lifestyle, and easy access to pristine beaches, excellent restaurants, and a vibrant small business community. We also must contend with flooding after significant rain events, a consequence of living just above sea level.

Flooding has become an increasing problem, in part, because of the island’s antiquated stormwater infrastructure. Installed by the South Carolina Department of Transportation more than 40 years ago, the system is severely undersized, in poor condition, and has required urgent attention for many years. Addressing its faults is complicated by the fact that the town does not own the infrastructure and cannot work on it without approval and supervision from SCDOT. As a result, the town has relied on state and county authorities to maintain and repair the system.

Frustrated by the lack of maintenance, the town in early 2023 began an initiative to address flooding by developing a comprehensive plan to survey the existing infrastructure, identify its problems, and formulate an engineering plan for repairs. The town has aggressively pursued and secured significant outside funding for the project through the American Rescue Plan Act, the South Carolina Infrastructure and Investment Program, and other programs. With an initial $10 million secured, the town bid out the comprehensive project and got work underway. The town’s engineers presented their final recommendations on March 18, 2025.

The town broke ground on Sept. 26, 2025, for a project to improve infrastructure serving the streets around Stations 28½ and 31. Efforts continue to secure funding for the remaining projects. The complete plan and estimated costs are available on the town’s website.

The town is also proactively implementing smaller-scale projects, with state and county approval, to provide immediate relief in areas particularly susceptible to flooding. This includes deploying a new mobile stormwater pump to discharge nuisance water and cleaning obstructed pipes, drop inlets, and ditches to improve flow. Residents have already seen significant drainage improvements around Raven Drive and Bayonne and Atlantic avenues.

These fixes have been a long time coming, but we are now poised for significant progress. I look forward to seeing it through — together.

Letter to the Editor: Sullivan’s Island Town Council Is Committed to Transparency

By Scott Millimet

Friends and Neighbors of Sullivan’s Island,

As campaign season begins, I want to address one of the recurring themes I’ve heard: the call for more transparency. I want to address that directly so we can move forward to other areas of discussion where differences of opinion may exist.

The truth is, transparency is already a central aspect of how your council operates. Every council meeting, committee meeting and workshop is advertised, open to the public, recorded on video and documented with minutes — all of which are posted to the town’s website. No votes are taken outside of the public chambers.

In recent years, the budget process has undergone enhancements to provide even greater clarity. Capital and operating budgets are now separated and reviewed in multiple public forums. Two new resources have also been added to the town website: the budget book, which provides an in-depth overview of the annual budget, and the financial transparency link, which offers real-time updates and supporting data on how town funds are allocated. Special thanks go to Town Administrator Joe Henderson and his team for implementing these tools. Additionally, all council members, including the mayor, are available to meet one-on-one with constituents. While I’ve only been asked a handful of times in my four years on council to meet with a constituent, each meeting has been productive and educational. I encourage more of these conversations in the future, as they often provide more insight than brief remarks during public sessions. Transparency is a partnership — the town provides the information, and we all play a role by making use of it.

I remain at your service,

Scott A. Millimet

Town Council

Sullivan’s Island

By Chaundra Yudchenko

City of Isle of Palms Seeks Public Input on Mobility Study Wild Dunes Pickleball Association to Host Charity Tournament for Pediatric Cancer Research

The City of Isle of Palms, in partnership with the Berkeley-Charleston-Dorchester Council of Governments (BCDCOG), is conducting a Mobility Study to evaluate the island’s current bike and pedestrian infrastructure. Residents, visitors and business owners are invited to a drop-in style open house to learn more about the study, ask questions and provide feedback. BCDCOG representatives will be on site to share information and answer questions.

An online survey is also available through Oct. 31, 2025, at iop.net or by scanning the QR code on the event flyer.

Residents can also attend an Open House on Monday, Oct. 20, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Isle of Palms Recreation Center, 24 28th Ave.

The study aims to identify safety concerns, connectivity gaps and maintenance issues to help guide future improvements. Community input will play a key role in shaping recommendations.

Funding for the study is provided by Explore Charleston through the city’s accommodations tax revenue.

For more information, contact the city at hello@iop.net.

LENS Sullivan’s Island to host Pig + Oyster Roast

By Christian Senger

Law Enforcement Neighborhood Support (LENS) Foundation Sullivan’s Island will host a Pig + Oyster Roast on Saturday, Nov. 15, at the Island Club.

Tickets include unlimited pork and oysters, sides, and beverages — both alcoholic and nonalcoholic. Children 12 and under receive free admission with the purchase of an adult ticket.

Proceeds will benefit LENS Sullivan’s Island, which provides support, resources and opportunities for Sullivan’s Island Police Department officers, their families and the residents they serve.

For more information or to purchase tickets, visit LENSsi.org.

By Claudie Benjamin

With Thanksgiving approaching, members of the Wild Dunes Pickleball Association have embraced the idea of giving back by hosting a charity pickleball tournament on Nov. 16.

“The upcoming tournament fundraiser was inspired because childhood cancer has impacted members of our community,” said Jen Stephens, president of the association. “Doing something to help fight this disease is a cause close to our hearts. We are very grateful for the support we have received so far and hope to keep it coming in.”

Stephens, a resident of Isle of Palms, has been president for two of her three years as a member. She works part-time at the Tennis Center and is a former special education paraprofessional. She first picked up a paddle five years ago and can be found on the courts almost every day.

Josh Smith, Wild Dunes pickleball director for the past two years, is equally enthusiastic about organizing the resort’s first-ever charity pickleball event. Originally from Pittsburgh, he has lived in Charleston since 2021 and previously worked at Van Der Meer Tennis Academy in Hilton Head Island and as tennis pro and head pickleball pro at Sea Colony Resort in Delaware.

Proceeds from the tournament will support pediatric cancer research at MUSC’s Shawn Jenkins Children’s Hospital, South Carolina’s only Level 1 pediatric trauma center. The Wild Dunes fundraiser intends for all funds raised, minus tournament administration costs, to go directly toward advancing pediatric medical research at MUSC’s Darby Children’s Research Institute.

The late Dr. Charles P. Darby, founder of the institute, emphasized a “bench to bedside” approach to research. The hospital itself, which opened in 2020, was named for Charleston businessman Shawn Jenkins,

(Continued on page 22

Battery Gadsden to Present U-Boat Program

By Mike Walsh

Visitors to the Fort Moultrie Visitor Center will find in its World War II exhibit two mentions of German U-boat incursions into Charleston Harbor in 1942. According to the display, both submarines laid 12 mines and escaped undetected. The mines were later cleared, and no damage was done to shipping.

But is that the true story? Did these two events actually happen? Were there others in our waters? The U-boat threat along the U.S. coastline during the war was extensive. Was Charleston, one of the major East Coast ports, ignored after 1942?

Those and many other fascinating questions will be explored on Thursday, Oct. 16, when Battery Gadsden Cultural Center welcomes back National Park Service Ranger Shelby McAllister as its monthly speaker. Her presentation, The Unseen Threat: German U-Boats in Charleston Waters, delves into the records of U-boat activity in both the U.S. and Germany and uncovers discoveries seldom heard before.

If you attended Ranger Shelby’s earlier presentation on the history of lighthouses in the area, you know she is both a dynamic presenter and an excellent researcher.

A native of Iowa, McAllister discovered that classroom teaching wasn’t for her and instead joined the National Park Service. She has served at Harpers Ferry, Shiloh, and Lincoln’s Home in Springfield, Illinois, before coming to Fort Sumter and Fort Moultrie National Historical Park.

This presentation, part of BGCC’s monthly speaker series, will take place at 6 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 16, at Sunrise Presbyterian Church, 3222 Middle St. on Sullivan’s Island. As always, the talks are free and open to the public.

Wild Dunes Pickleball

Continued from page 21

co-founder and former CEO of Benefitfocus. Jenkins’ $25 million gift to MUSC helped establish the hospital, inspired by his own experiences with financial struggles and a desire to support families in crisis.

The Darby Institute’s research spans infectious diseases, genetics, diabetes, cancer and congenital heart disease.

The joy and camaraderie of the pickleball community make the sport a natural fit for the fundraiser, Smith said. “Our goal is to host a fun and inclusive event for a great cause,” he added. “This tournament will bring people together and allow them to play pickleball with friends while supporting a fantastic foundation doing really important work.”

Two additional courts were added at Wild Dunes in June, bringing the total to six, all of which will be used during the tournament. About 80 players are expected, competing in gender doubles, along with many more spectators.

Participants will have access to food and refreshments at the resort. Tournament T-shirts and memorabilia will also be available for purchase.

The tournament is open to Wild Dunes members and their guests. Sponsorships are encouraged at any level of contribution.

•Sponsorship inquiries: Contact Jen Stephens at 651-600-9697 or jenloustep@msn.com

•Registration: Contact Josh Smith at joshua.smith@wilddunesresort.com

Whether playing, sponsoring or cheering from the sidelines, community members are invited to join in. With paddles up, Wild Dunes hopes to make a meaningful difference this Thanksgiving season.

Redfish and Trout Biting Strong as Weather Cools

By Capt. Geoff Bennett

Fall has arrived with cooler weather and shorter days. But don’t put your boat away yet — we’re about to experience some of the best fishing of the year. Fishermen can still find success with live bait, but artificial lures should become increasingly effective. Make some time to get out on the water — you won’t regret it.

Redfish have been aggressively feeding on cut and live bait fished on the bottom. Menhaden and mullet are abundant and easy to net. Try rigging bait on a 3/0 circle hook paired with a Carolina rig. This setup works well under docks as well as on the flats. Just set the rod in the holder and wait for the reel to hum — the fish will hook themselves.

Artificial lures are also producing for trout, and the traditional paddle-tail design has been especially effective. A 1/4-ounce jighead tied with a loop knot will give the lure extra action. Vary your retrieve speed as you prospect for fish. To make your lure even more appealing, tip the hook with a piece of shrimp — frozen or live — to create a scent trail that’s hard for trout to resist.

Even as artificials heat up, keep tossing popping corks. Mud minnows, live shrimp and artificial shrimp have all been working well when suspended 18 to 24 inches below the cork. Redfish and trout alike are hitting these baits as they drift along in the water column. Corks are most effective when fished along grassy banks at mid and high tide.

See you on the water!

For the past 16 years, Capt. Geoff Bennett has operated Charleston Charter Fishing, providing light-tackle fishing charters. Clients can choose from a full menu of options with trips tailored to their preferences. USCG licensed and insured, Capt. Bennett is committed to offering a safe and enjoyable charter for anglers of all ages and skill levels. For more information, call Capt. Bennett at 843-324-3332, visit charlestoncharterfishing.com, or email captain@charlestoncharterfishing.com.

Jen Stephens

Josh Smith

Body Wilson from Columbia (Provided)

Rob Fowler Tells of Hurricane Hugo

By Battery Gadsden Cultural Center

Few topics spark more local interest than Hurricane Hugo. That was proven true on Thursday, Sept. 18, when the sanctuary at Sunrise Presbyterian Church filled with residents eager to hear meteorologist Rob Fowler’s presentation, Hurricane Hugo – Then and Now. Having lived through Hugo and reported on it extensively, Fowler was uniquely qualified to speak. For his remarkable coverage, he was named Meteorologist of the Year by the National Weather Association. Fowler grew up in Atlanta and earned a communications degree from Georgia Southern University. He later received his Broadcast Meteorology Certification from Mississippi State University. Before becoming chief meteorologist at WCBD News 2 in 1987, he worked at stations in Savannah, Georgia, and Green Bay, Wisconsin.

His accolades are many, both on and off camera. This past January, Fowler received the Award of Distinction, the Masters Award, from the South Carolina Broadcasters Association. This lifetime achievement honor recognizes broadcasters who have made significant contributions to the state and exemplify high professional standards.

In 2006, Gov. Mark Sanford presented Fowler with the Order of the Palmetto, South Carolina’s highest civilian award. Fowler was nominated by members of the U.S. Marine Corps for his tireless work organizing Toys for Tots collections and distributions in the Lowcountry.

During his presentation, Fowler emphasized several points. Regarding Hugo, he noted that the local devastation could have been worse had the storm come ashore around Edisto Island instead of Charleston Harbor. Based on historical averages, he warned the area is overdue for another major storm.

“It’s not a matter of if. It’s a matter of when,” Fowler said.

He also stressed that climate change is contributing to stronger, more frequent tropical systems. His message: Be prepared. Have a plan. His own family begins planning each June at the start of hurricane season. He urged residents to heed official warnings, stressing that failure to do so can be fatal. Though the season’s peak has passed, he reminded the audience that plenty of risk remains.

In a lively Q&A session, Fowler was asked about the greatest challenge in getting out accurate information when a storm is approaching. His answer: social media. He contrasted today’s flood of online misinformation with the media landscape of 1989, when Hugo struck.

The Battery Gadsden Cultural Center extends its sincere thanks to Rob Fowler for such an outstanding presentation as part of its monthly speaker series.

Isle of Palms Police Offer Tips for a Safe Halloween

By Sergeant Matthew R. Storen

Halloween is here, and the Isle of Palms Police Department wants to make sure families enjoy the treats while avoiding the tricks. Officers are reminding residents and visitors to keep safety in mind as children head out for an evening of trick-or-treating.

Here are some essential tips to ensure a fun and safe Halloween:

1. Stick to familiar routes. When trick-or-treating, choose well-lit streets in areas you know. Avoid shortcuts through unfamiliar neighborhoods.

2. Be seen and be safe. Wear reflective attire, carry a flashlight, or add reflective tape to costumes to increase visibility to motorists.

3. Trick-or-treat in groups. Going out with friends or family is safer than going alone. Always look out for one another.

4. Follow the porch light rule. Only approach houses with porch lights on. This indicates they are participating in Halloween and welcoming trickor-treaters.

5. Practice fire safety. Place jack-o’-lanterns with candles away from curtains or other flammable materials. Consider using battery-operated LED lights as a safer alternative.

6. Watch for children on the move. Motorists should take extra time at intersections, medians, and curbs. Children may be excited and unpredictable.

7. Drivers, slow down. Popular trick-or-treating hours are between 5:30 and 9:30 p.m. Be especially cautious in residential neighborhoods.

8. See something, say something. Isle of Palms police officers will be on patrol and ready to respond to reports of suspicious activity.

Parents and guardians can find more helpful safety tips at www.safekids.org

“Our top priority is keeping families safe,” said Chief Kevin Cornett of the Isle of Palms Police Department. “By following these guidelines, we can ensure Halloween is fun, memorable, and safe for everyone.”

The Isle of Palms Police Department wishes the community a safe and happy Halloween.

On Thursday, Sept. 18, Rob Fowler, chief meteorologist at WCBD News 2 since 1987, gave a talk about Hurricane Hugo on its 36th anniversary. The event, hosted by the Battery Gadsden Cultural Center, took place at Sunrise Presbyterian Church on Sullivan’s Island.

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