Since May 2005 PRESORT STANDARD US POSTAGE PAID CHARLESTON, SC PERMIT NO. 137 POSTAL PATRON
Volume 20 • Issue 13
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November 29, 2024
Streetman Rejoins Planning a Park IOP City Council SMUALSL TI VEARN P’ SL ACNO,UENXCCI LL UFDI NEASL SI ZWEISM MS TI NI TGH PPOAORLK
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BY CHRISTIAN SENGER
BY JOSHUA UYS
n Tuesday, Nov. 19, Rusty Streetman defeated Susan Hill Smith by 30 votes to win the special election for the open Isle of Palms City Council seat. The results are unofficial until certified by state election officials. A total of 1,270 votes were cast, with Streetman earning 650 to Smith’s 620. The pair were the top two vote-getters on Election Day, Nov. 5, but since neither secured a majority, a runoff was required. Streetman will return to the City Council, where he previously served from 2020 to 2023. Smith is also a former councilmember, having served from 2018 to 2021. The council seat became vacant following the resignation of former City Councilwoman Elizabeth Campsen in August.
A Life of Generosity
THOMPSON RECEIVES S O U T H C A R O L I N A’ S HIGHEST HONOR
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BY LAURA STRECKER
t was an evening of emotion, inspiration, and heartfelt gratitude at the Osprey Ballroom in Wild Dunes on Friday, Nov. 15. More than 80 friends, family members, and admirers gathered to celebrate a man whose kindness has touched countless lives, near and far. James “Jim” Thompson, a longtime Isle of Palms resident, received the prestigious South Carolina Order of the Palmetto—a recognition reserved for individuals whose extraordinary contributions leave an indelible mark on the state and beyond. For those who know Thompson, there could be no one more deserving. Ted Kinghorn, director of the Law Enforcement Neighborhood (continued on page 4, 5)
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n Tuesday, Nov. 19, the Sullivan’s Island Town Council voted unanimously to consider the Stith Park Master Plan contract with Thomas & Hutton complete, following the third and final open house for public input. Mayor Patrick O’Neil clarified that the council’s vote does not equate to adopting any specific items from the master plan. “This is a proposal,” emphasized Councilman Scott Millimet. “There’s nothing set in stone regarding what Thomas & Hutton have proposed. What we do moving forward will depend on the town’s budget and priorities. These are great ideas, but it’s the council’s responsibility to prioritize them within our financial capacity and willingness to borrow, if needed.” The master plan, which has been in development for months, aims to balance modern upgrades with the historic charm that has made Stith Park a beloved
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community space. Key priorities outlined earlier this year included addressing frequent flooding with a $420,000 drainage system upgrade and creating a more inclusive playground using natural materials to harmonize with the park’s landscape. Other popular proposals include additional pickleball courts and passive spaces for walking and relaxation, which have been highly favored by residents. Thomas & Hutton presented findings from a community survey designed to guide future decisions. According to the survey, 50% of the 316 respondents visit Stith Park at least monthly, with most arriving by golf cart, bicycle, or on foot. About 80% of residents cited active uses—such as playing tennis or bringing their children to the playground—as their primary reason for visiting the park. Among the most popular proposed improvements were enhanced drainage systems and the addition (continued on page 2)
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