Palmetto PERSPECTIVE
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Kurt Faires, CHAIR 423-757-0226 | kfaires@chamblisslaw.com
Barbara McFadden, VICE CHAIR 843-686-2465 | barbaramcfadden774@gmail.com
Alice Bettencourt, SECRETARY 703-216-7315 | abett.pdpoa@gmail.com
Bob Talbot, TREASURER 630-608-8278 | talbots83@gmail.com
Karen Booth 203-906-8227 | karenb29928@gmail.com
Kelly Brown 513-477-8245 | kelly.brown7200@gmail.com
Ed Garino 843-310-4646 | egarino.pdpoa@gmail.com
Doug Luba 843 247-2527 | dougluba@gmail.com
Lee Whitehurst 703-727-1593 | albert.lee.whitehurst@gmail.com
Brandon Smith, GREENWOOD C&R 864-229-4063 | bsmith@basmithlaw.com
ON-SITE STAFF
Accounting Administrator, KRISTEN CAPOZZI 843-785-1109 x103 | kcapozzi@pdpoa.org
ARB, MONICA STITES 843-785-1109 x104 | mstites@pdpoa.org
Administrative Coordinator, KATHLEEN RYAN 843-785-1109 | kryan@pdpoa.org
Communications, ELIZABETH SIMPSON 843-785-1109 x106 | esimpson@pdpoa.org
Facilities Maint./Lagoon & Lakes, SYDNEY WAN 843-298-2359 | swan@pdpoa.org
General Manager, BILL DIX 843-785-1109 x108 | bdix@pdpoa.org
Security, JIM GRINER 843-785-1120 | jgriner@pdpoa.org
Visitor Management, ZOE SLINGLUFF 843-785-1125 x126 | zslingluff@pdpoa.org
News
SHORT-TERM RENTAL REGISTRATION
On January 1st, Palmetto Dunes POA will begin accepting short-term rental registrations for 2025. This annual registration is mandatory and remains valid from January 1st through December 31st. It is important to be aware that registering your short-term rental property with the POA is both free and a separate requirement from the permit and business license required by the Town of Hilton Head. To ensure full compliance with Palmetto Dunes POA, your 2025 short-term rental registration must be submitted by April 30th. Initiate your free registration process beginning January 1st at https:// resident.symliv.com/palmettodunes/login.
For first-time registrants with Palmetto Dunes, please create an account; the community code is PDPOA. Returning applicants can log in and register a new rental; your previous registration information should auto-fill, allowing you to make any necessary changes before resubmitting. Please contact our Visitor Management Coordinator, Zoe Slingluff, at zslingluff@pdpoa.org with any questions.
QUEENS FOLLY CORRIDOR TRAFFIC STUDY REPORT
As many of you are aware, the PDPOA Board of Directors approved that a traffic study of the Queens Folly corridor be completed in 2024. Subsequently, Stantec Consulting Services was commissioned to produce the study. The study has been received and the Board has provide the full report to the members of Palmetto Dunes POA.
The Board has been reviewing the report and will be discussing the findings and recommendations from the consultants. The report is posted as received in its entirety, as well as conveniently separated into three sections - Executive Summary, Report and Findings, and Appendices. The report can be found on our website at pdpoa.org.
PROPERTY OWNER ID CARDS
Property Owner ID cards offer a range of discounts on dining and services, along with enticing offers at various local establishments spanning dining, shopping, and fitness. To secure your Property ID Card and kickstart your access to local discounts, simply visit the Administrative Office during office hours, Monday through Friday, with your driver’s license.
The Palmetto Perspective is published bimonthly by the Palmetto Dunes Property Owners Association. ©2025 PALMETTO DUNES POA, INC.
LAGOON LOWERING
January 8 & February 5
Our lagoon system is periodically lowered to promote the health of the waterway. Please note that dates are always subject to change/cancelation.
Chairman's Report
Greetings. I hope you all enjoyed the holidays with your families. November was special for our family as my 29-year-old son got married in Palmetto Dunes. He's been coming to HHI since age one so we were happy his bride agreed it was a great place for a wedding.
As for business, PDPOA welcomed four new board members in October: returning past Chair Barbara McFadden, Karen Booth, Lee Whitehurst and Kelly Brown. These four bring a breadth of professional expertise as well as an espirit de corps to work together as a team for PD's greater good. Next up was hiring PD's new General Manager. After
a three-month national search led by a consultant specializing in communities such as PD, the consensus choice of the board, employee direct reports and search committee was Bill Dix. Bill joined the Association on December 2. There will be several opportunities to meet him in the coming weeks. Please join us in helping make Bill and his wife, Rachel, feel welcome.
In terms of goals for the coming year, I personally have an optimistic vision of further enhancing PD's friendliness and neighborliness. This could manifest itself in many ways. We also intend to wrap up 7 Lee Shore, identify continuous improvement efficiencies and pursue areas of mutual interest and compromise with Greenwood among other items too numerous to mention here.
Finally, in addition to your dedicated board, I would like to recognize and thank the numerous committee members who work so tirelessly every month. Palmetto Dunes could not function without these unpaid volunteers. We will not always agree as various ideas are run up the flagpole, but in keeping with our vision statement to be the best residential beach resort community in the Southeast, we can strive to disagree without being disagreeable to quote one committee member.
Here's wishing you and your families a healthy and cheerful 2025.
—Kurt Faires, Chairman
Welcome our New General Manager, Bill Dix!
The Palmetto Dunes Property Owners Association is extremely pleased to welcome Bill Dix as our new General Manager. Bill began his role at the Association on Monday, December 2, 2024.
With nearly two decades of experience in the Community Association Management industry, Bill brings a wealth of expertise and leadership to our team. His credentials include the Certified Manager of Community Associations (CMCA), Association Management Specialist (AMS), and the prestigious Professional Community Association Manager (PCAM) designation—the highest national recognition for managers specializing in this field.
Bill’s career journey has taken him across the country and beyond. He spent 12 years managing gated communities and oceanfront condominium associations in Maui,
Hawaii, where he oversaw other community managers. After moving to Charlotte, North Carolina, in 2017, he served as Regional Vice President for a prominent management company, supervising six managers and overseeing a portfolio of more than 70 communities.
Most recently, Bill held the General Manager role at SunRiver St. George, a largescale active adult community in Utah with over 2,300 homes and extensive amenities, including private roads, pools, parks, and community centers.
A dedicated supporter of the Community Association Institute (CAI), Bill has served on multiple regional councils and committees, demonstrating his commitment to advancing the industry.
When he’s not leading communities, Bill
enjoys kayaking, biking, and exploring the great outdoors with his wife, Rachel, and their travel trailer. Originally from Canada, he’s also a passionate hockey fan who loves playing whenever he can.
Bill is excited to meet property owners at upcoming PDPOA events and looks forward to building strong connections within our community. In addition to these events, there will also be other opportunities arranged for owners to meet with Bill as he begins his new role.
Please join us in giving Bill a warm Palmetto Dunes welcome as he begins his journey with us!
Treasurer's Report
We start 2025 with fresh budgets and a fresh perspective. We continue to invest in our community by maintaining the infrastructure, improving beach access and strengthening our reserves. We have been helped in this by strong home and villa sales generating significant Community Enhancement Funds (CEF), good returns on our investment portfolio and good budget control. All this has allowed us to maintain residential assessments flat at $1,900 per door for 2025. You will soon be receiving information about how to pay 2025 assessments.
The Board approved our 2025 Operating budget at its November meeting. Overall revenues of near $11 million are made up as seen on 2025 Projected Income Chart.
As you can see the majority of our income is from residential assessments and pass fees.
On the expense side, we have operating costs of running the PDPOA of $7.1 million and we plan to contribute $2.7 million to reserves during 2025. See 2025 Projected Expenses Chart.
Our largest expense item is the salaries and benefits of our PDPOA employees.
We build in a small cushion in the budget in case things don’t go as planned. This budget surplus will allow us to deal with unexpected expenses or revenue shortfalls. If those don’t come to pass, it will add to the reserves.
Reserve balances are projected to reach $26 million for year end 2025.
The Board also approved the capital plan for 2025 and the key projects are as follows:
• Mooring Buoy phase 3 stormwater infrastructure and repaving
• Bridge repairs to extend useful life
• T-Streets (Dinghy, East Wind, Flotilla, Galleon) stormwater infrastructure and repaving
As you know, there are a number of unbudgeted projects under discussion including the Lee Shore passive park and Centre Court that could require funding during the year if approved by the association. These would be funded from our reserves.
I hope you agree that our community is on a solid financial footing with plans to continue to improve our readiness each year.
—Bob Talbot, Treasurer
2025 ANNUAL ASSESSMENT
We’re pleased to announce that the annual residential assessment for 2025 will remain unchanged at $1,900. Thanks to the focused efforts of our Management Team, Finance Committee, and Board of Directors, we’ve maintained this steady rate while continuing to deliver exceptional services and preserving the beauty of our community.
Assessment bills will be accessible by the second week of January. Owners can make payments via their secure online portals. For those with an active email address on file, a notification will be sent in the coming weeks with instructions on how to complete your payment online or submit a check. If no email address is on record, invoices will be mailed directly to your address.
For any questions about your assessment, feel free to reach out to Kristen Capozzi at kcapozzi@pdpoa.org.
7 Lee Shore Update
The 7 Lee Shore Subcommittee is excited to provide an update on its efforts to enhance the community’s amenities. The subcommittee is actively working on a proposal to transform the 7 Lee Shore property into a passive park, designed to provide residents with a tranquil, nature-focused space to enjoy and connect with the environment and one another. Importantly, there will be no commercial activity in the proposed park, ensuring it remains a peaceful and communityoriented space.
The preliminary vision for the park includes features such as an open-air pavilion, walking paths, picnic tables, fire pits, and a playground. These amenities aim to create a versatile space suitable for relaxation, recreation, and fostering community connections.
In the months ahead, the subcommittee will finalize the proposed design and develop a comprehensive overview of the park’s features. This information will be shared with the broader community in the spring, accompanied by an invitation for feedback. The input gathered during this period will be instrumental in determining the next steps for the project.
Should the feedback indicate support for the initiative, the final park design and any necessary covenant changes will be presented to the community for a formal vote.
We strongly encourage all property owners to engage in this process. Your participation is vital to shaping a community space that reflects the shared interests and values of our neighborhood. Thank you for your ongoing involvement and commitment to enhancing our community.
Forming the 2025 Nominating Committee
Every year, the Nominating Committee encourages property owners to consider running for the board. The committee meets with candidates to discuss their experiences and perspectives, ultimately recommending candidates to fill available board seats (typically three).
As outlined in the PD Bylaws, the Nominating Committee includes five members: the Nominating Committee Chair, one current Director, and three owners who are not Board Directors. Interested owners are invited to apply to join the Nominating Committee. In this role, you will help recruit, interview, and recommend candidates for the Board.
If you've thought about joining a committee before, this could be the perfect opportunity for you! This important, hands-on role requires a commitment of time spread over several months. Members of the Nominating Committee must meet the following criteria:
• Be a current owner in good standing (no outstanding payments, fines, or violations) with the POA
• Have an eye for talent
• Not intend to run for the 2024-2025 board yourself (via the nominating or petition process)
• Have a passion for Palmetto Dunes
If you’re interested in being considered for the Nominating Committee, please email barbaramcfadden774@gmail.com by February 1, 2025, to express your interest. The goal is to select and announce three new committee members by March 1, 2025. Afterward, the committee will begin recruiting and meeting with board candidates, aiming to recommend candidates by July 2025.
The recommended candidates will appear on the 2025 ballot, alongside any others who choose to pursue the petition route.
Don’t miss this opportunity to play a vital role in shaping the future of our community!
— Barbara McFadden, 2025 Nominating Committee Chair
ARB Report
Happy New Year from the Palmetto Dunes ARB!
The ARB, along with our dedicated professional staff member Monica, works diligently every month to approve new projects and finalize completed ones. 2021 was the record year for the ARB for all types of projects. Even though this year has been a slower year than 2021, from a project perspective, it looks like 2024 will end up on par with 2022 and 2023 project counts.
I am pleased to announce that Karen Booth, a recent addition to the PDPOA Board, has agreed to join the ARB as an ARB member and liaison with the Board. Bob Talbot is stepping away from the ARB to focus his efforts on leading the Finance Committee.
Likewise, I am pleased to announce that Joe DePauw, a local architect, has been engaged to provide the ARB with his technical expertise as he reviews drawings and specifications submitted for new projects. And we extend a large thank you for the thirteen years of service Rob Tedford provided the ARB prior to his retirement this summer.
Palmetto Dunes has a few undeveloped lots left in the community for new residential construction; 4 in the Inverness area and 16 in the Mariners area. Therefore, it should be of no surprise that the ARB has received this quarter two formal proposals to demolish existing, older houses, to be replaced with new, much larger, homes. This is a trend that is likely to continue.
Also, the ARB has received a steady flow of requests to add pools and/or spas on existing properties. As of December 1,
2024, 19 properties have submitted an application for a new pool and/or spa addition. Some of them even had old, existing pools/spas demolished to construct newer, and more modern pools/spas.
When the updated Design and Construction Guidelines were approved by the PD Board in 2021, and became effective January 1, 2022, the ARB committed to periodic reviews. Last spring, a few enhancements and updates were added in May by the Board. This past spring the ARB also received recommendations for additions to the D&CG’s from the Safety and Security Committee and the Sustainability Committee. The ARB has been researching all these suggestions and has drafted several proposed guidelines, approved to be opened for owner comments by the Board in the October meeting. The ARB recognizes that if these suggestions to the D&CG’s are embraced, they would initiate several significant departures from existing PDPOA norms. Allow me to outline these changes in more detail.
The primary impact of the Safety and Security Committee suggestions, should PDPOA Board concur, would be to allow the installation of fencing around pools. As you may be aware, PDPOA has not allowed fencing of any type in the community since it was first developed. However, across the nation, and in Beaufort County, optional pool fencing is allowed. The drive to now allow fencing around residential pools is to deter the possibil-
ity of accidental drowning. The Town of Hilton Head has not followed this trend, however most of the other communities on Hilton Head do allow pool fencing at the owner’s discretion. These draft guidelines were sent out for comment to the owners in November 2024, and over 135 comments were received. Comments are being organized for review and discussion.
The primary impact of the Sustainability Committee suggestions, should the PDPOA Board concur, would be to allow the installation of synthetic turf, the use of compost bins and rain barrels, and rules for installing EV chargers. The ARB recognizes the historic emphasis in Palmetto Dunes on maintaining the natural environment and traditional grass as the primary ground coverage. These draft guidelines should be out soon for owners comments as well.
Final agreement on the details of these initiatives is still in a working phase. As Palmetto Dunes continues to grow and keep pace with new trends, action will be needed to maintain an aesthetic standard that the community will accept.
The ARB encourages all owners to review the draft guidelines and provide comments once they go out for Member Comment Period. The ARB seeks your interest and involvement.
— Dixon Hanna, ARB Chair
Upcoming Owner Events
First Friday Food Trucks
FRIDAY, JANUARY 3, 12-2PM**
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 7, 4-6PM
Join friends and neighbors to enjoy food from local vendors! Food trucks will be located at the Administrative and Security Parking Lot, 16 Queens Folly Rd. January's food truck will be LowCo Grub and will be hosted at a special time for lunch! Please join us from 12-2pm as we welcome our first lunch First Friday Food Truck!
New Years Happy Hour Social
THURSDAY, JANUARY 16, 4:30-7PM
We've brought back this popular event to kick-off the new year! Gather with neighbors at Big Jim's New Years Happy Hour! Enjoy fetive holiday appetizers and drinks. Registration is $30 and includes all food and one drink ticket. Please register online.
Dough Bowl Painting
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 22, 12-2PM
Join us for a fun Dough Bowl Painting Party where you can create your own beautifully designed piece! All supplies and guidance are included, so come ready to paint, relax, and make something special!
Bird Migration
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 12-2PM
Every year billions of birds travel thousands of miles between breeding grounds in North America and wintering grounds in Central and South America. Discover why birds migrate across continents and learn about some tools scientists use to understand the movement of migratory birds with Coastal Discovery Museum.
Wine Glass Painting Party
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 12-2PM
Come join us for this exciting event where you can paint your own set of 2 wine glasses! Price includes ALL art supplies, instruction (often step-by-step), and paint. Wine and snacks will be provided as well. Registration is $30/person.
Event Registration
You can register for all Community Events online at: pdpoa.org/community/events. If you need any assistance registering for an event, please contact Kathleen Ryan at kryan@pdpoa.org.
TUESDAY, JANUARY 28
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 25
Community Safety & Security Meeting
2pm. Chief Jim Griner hosts the online meetings and registration is required at pdpoa.org/community-security.
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 29
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 26
Chat
with the Chair
11am. This monthly event gives owners an opportunity to ask questions and discuss issues facing our community with the Board Chair. Online registration: pdpoa.org/chat-with-thechair.
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 29
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 26 Board Meeting
5:30pm. Meetings are open to Palmetto Dunes property owners to attend in person or via Zoom.
Sustainability Corner: A Message from the Sustainability Committee
Variable Speed Pool Pump Requirements
The Department of Energy (DOE) implemented new performance standards for pool pumps in the United States, effective July 19, 2021.
However, the law does not require homeowners to replace single-speed pumps with variable-speed models unless their current pump fails.
Why Consider Switching?
The Sustainability Committee recommends upgrading to variable-speed pool pumps for several reasons:
• Energy Savings: Running a pump at lower speeds can reduce energy use by 40–60%, saving approximately $30 per month on electricity.
• Quick Payback: With an average cost of $600, most homeowners recover their investment in less than two years.
• Additional Benefits: Variable-speed pumps are quieter and have a longer lifespan compared to single-speed models.
• Switching to a variable-speed pump is an economical and environmentally friendly option for pool owners.
Palmetto Dunes Cares
Making a Difference in the Community
At Palmetto Dunes, giving back to the community isn’t just an act of goodwill; it’s a deeply ingrained tradition. Through its charitable initiative, Palmetto Dunes Cares, the organization has made an indelible impact on the lives of many, ensuring a brighter future for individuals and families across the Lowcountry.
One of the marquee events that encapsulates the spirit of Palmetto Dunes Cares is the annual Thanksgiving Turtle Trot. This year, the event attracted nearly 1,300 enthusiastic runners, a testament to its growing popularity and the strong sense of community it fosters. The Turtle Trot is not just a race; it’s an opportunity to raise awareness about sea turtles and their conservation, a cause close to the heart of Palmetto Dunes. The event continues to inspire people to appreciate and protect the natural world through fun, fitness, and education.
A Legacy of Giving
Since it began, Palmetto Dunes Cares has donated more than $300,000 to local charities, demonstrating its commitment to aiding those in need. In 2024, the organization contributed $65,000 to diverse causes, showcasing its steadfast dedication to enhancing the community. These contributions have supported local organizations, promoted education, and sparked a wave of positive change.
A significant highlight of Palmetto Dunes Cares' efforts is its focus on education. This year, the initiative awarded three academic scholarships to talented local youth, helping them pursue their dreams and achieve their potential. By investing in the next generation, Palmetto Dunes Cares is shaping tomorrow's leaders while addressing today's immediate needs.
Supporting Local Charities
Palmetto Dunes Cares has partnered with several noteworthy charities, providing financial support to help them further their missions. Some of the organizations that have benefited from its generosity include:
• Neighborhood Outreach Connection: Promoting education and workforce development in underserved communities.
• The Children’s Center Inc.: Offering affordable, high-quality early education and childcare services.
• Sea Turtle Patrol HHI: Dedicated to protecting and conserving Hilton Head Island’s beloved sea turtles.
• The Hilton Head Island Deep Well Project: Providing emergency assistance and basic needs to families in crisis.
• Coastal Discovery Museum: Encouraging understanding and appreciation of the Lowcountry’s natural and cultural heritage.
• Lowcountry Legal Volunteers: Offering free legal aid to those who might not otherwise afford it.
Through these partnerships, Palmetto Dunes Cares has extended its reach, ensuring its contributions address diverse challenges and meaningfully connect lives.
Powered by Community
While financial contributions from friends and neighbors are the lifeblood of Palmetto Dunes Cares, its volunteers' dedication truly drives the organization forward. Volunteers are the "sinew and muscle" of the operation, bringing ideas
to life and connecting with those in need. Their selflessness and hard work serve as a reminder of the power of collective action.
The organization is always on the lookout for more helping hands. Whether you’re a long-time resident or new to the area, you have a place at Palmetto Dunes Cares. By volunteering, you can make a tangible difference and experience the profound joy of giving back.
Join the Movement
As Palmetto Dunes Cares continues its mission of enriching lives and building a stronger community, it invites everyone to get involved. There are countless ways to contribute, from participating in events like the Thanksgiving Turtle Trot to donating or volunteering. We can create a brighter future for our neighbors and the causes we hold dear.
To learn more about Palmetto Dunes Cares and how you can get involved, visit their website at www.palmettodunescares.org. Let’s join hands and continue to do good, one step at a time.
—Ben Kinnas, PD Cares Chair
Resort Happenings
The Super Sunday Golf Tournament—
Sunday, February 9, 2025
The tournament begins at 9 a.m. at the Robert Trent Jones Course with a shotgun start, four-man scramble format, and prizes awarded. Registration is $90 per player (includes golf, greens fees, prizes and 4 beer/snack tickets). Member rates do not apply. For questions, contact Becky at (843) 686-9624 or via email at RDeRose@PalmettoDunes. com. Registration opens on Thursday, January 2, and will close Friday, January 31. Visit PalmettoDunes.com/SuperSunday for more info and registration details.
Alexander’s Restaurant & Wine Bar - Homegrown Supper
Alexander’s Homegrown Supper is on Thursday, February 20, part of the weeklong Hilton Head Island Seafood Festival. Enjoy a five-course prix-fixe dinner featuring wines from Elyse Winery by Josh Peeples, and special guest Hilton Head Island Native, Chef Jon Buck. View the menu and make your reservation at AlexandersRestaurant.com/seafoodfestival.
Big Jim’s Super Sunday Catering
Choose from BBQ, wings, ribs, burgers and all the fixin’s for the big day. Place your big game orders by Thursday, February 6th at noon. Family platters & kits available! Order online at BigJimsBBQCatering.com or call 866-4204478.
Big Jim’s Trivia Night Tuesdays
Have fun, eat fantastic food, and enjoy Trivia Night Tuesdays every Tuesday from 5 p.m.– 7 p.m. Play as an individual or as a team. First and second place winners will receive a prize. View the full menu and hours of operation at BigJimsBBQCatering.com.
Luxury Pontoon Boat Rentals at Shelter Cove Marina
Plan a relaxing trip out on the water with Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina’s luxury Pontoon Boat Rentals! These spacious Aloha pontoon boats feature room for up to 12 people comfortably, a 9-foot Sunbrella Bimini for shade, Bluetooth speakers, Garmin GPS & depth finder and more. ShelterCoveMarinaBoatRentals.com.
The Dunes House
The Dunes House is currently closed for the season. For more information on the Dunes House, visit PalmettoDunes.com/DunesHouse.
Happenings at the Omni Hilton
Head Oceanfront Resort:
HH Prime Restaurant – Seasonal times may vary. Please call ahead of time at 843.342.8058. for breakfast & dinner hours and availability and be sure to make your reservations through opentable.com/hh-prime.
XO Sports & Spirits – Enjoy game day sports on any of our 13 monitors with Big 10 Network, the SEC Network, and PGA Tour coverage. Drink specials and casual menu. Open daily. 843.341.8487.
Palmetto Market – Open 6:30 a.m. – 9 p.m. for coffee, beverages, fresh-made breakfast items, sandwiches, pizza, salads, and market items. 843.341.8025.
Ocean Tides Spa – Check out our featured products and treatments! Call 843.341.8056 for services, appointments, or gift cards.
Visit www.omnihiltonhead.com for more information.
