October 2 IEN

Residents hear from five of eight Council candidates

By Brian Sherman

For The Island Eye News

More than 200 Isle of Palms residents gathered at the Citadel Beach Club Sept. 28 to find out more about the eight people seeking seats on the IOP Council in the upcoming Nov. 7 election. Members of the overflow audience heard from five of their eight fellow islanders who would like to

represent them. The candidates agreed on subjects including the city’s decision to limit development in Wild Dunes, the necessity for beach renourishment and that the IOP Police Department is doing an excellent job of keeping residents and visitors safe.

In other areas, the opinions of Elizabeth Campsen, Scott Pierce, Ashley Carroll, Tim Ahmuty and Brian Duffy differed, though usually not significantly. Unfortunately, the audience learned nothing about the other three candidates. Incumbents Kevin Popson, Rusty Streetman and Jimmy Ward were invited to participate but chose not to.

Ocean Club developer hits a roadblock on Sullivan’s

By Brian Sherman

For The Island Eye News

Plans to turn a historic property on Sullivan’s Island into a private club apparently are on hold after the Town Council voted not to refer the developer’s request for a zoning amendment to the Planning Commission.

At their regularly scheduled meeting Sept.19, Council members voted 5-0 to close one avenue that would have allowed the developer to renovate Jasper Hall and the Sand Dunes Club and open the Ocean Club, which would have charged a $60,000 membership fee and annual dues of $6,000. The Council could have sent the issue to the Planning Commission, which would have held a public hearing and then considered the possibility of recommending to the Council a change in the town’s zoning ordinance that would have permitted a commercial, for-profit club to operate in a residential neighborhood on Atlantic Avenue.

Sullivan’s Island Bathing Club withdrew its request for a zoning amendment on Sept. 19, prior to the Council meeting, apparently after separate meetings with Council members Carl Hubbard and Scott Millimet brought the company no closer to working out an agreement with the town.

“It became clear to the team through productive conversations and discussions with a number of Town Council members that there are (Continued on page 5)

The forum was sponsored by The Island Eye News, the Barrier Island Preservation Alliance and News 2 and moderated by Riley Benson, who hosts a political show aired by the local television station.

Candidates Answer Important Questions

The Island Eye News has posed some questions that we think are important to the residents of the Isle of Palms. The answers provided by Tim Ahmuty, Elizabeth Campsen, Ashley Carroll, Brian Duffy and Scott Pierce begin on page 14. Kevin Popson, Rusty Streetman and Jimmy Ward were given the opportunity to let their constituents know how they feel about these critical issues, but, for whatever reason, declined to do so.

Four of the five candidates voiced their support for a referendum that will be on the Nov. 7 ballot and would limit to 1,600 the number of investor-owned short-term rental licenses on the island. IOP voters were given the opportunity to decide that issue after the Council voted by a 5-4 margin on July 11 to ignore an ordinance proposed in a petition signed by 1,173 local residents. Popson, Streetman and Ward all voted against the ordinance, along with Blair Hahn and Mayor Phillip Pounds. Pierce, the only (Continued on page 3)

IOP Council to take another look at STR zoning changes

By Brian Sherman

For The Island Eye News

At their August workshop, the Isle of Palms City Council decided that a Planning Commission proposal to allow property owners to rent one room in their home while they are onsite would not be appropriate for IOP. However, after hearing about the reasoning behind that proposition and two others, Council members had somewhat of a change of heart.

Following an hour-long session with the Planning Commission prior to the Council’s Sept. 26 meeting, the Council decided to have city staff prepare possible changes to the zoning ordinance that would permit (Continued on page 6)

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The Island Connection SiP Magazine • “Where To” Map

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CONTRIBUTORS:

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Tammy Cox • Vincent Iwinski

Ada Jenkins • Mary Pringle

Tom Scruggs • Chaundra Yudchenko

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IOP Council doubles funding for Emanuel Nine Memorial

By Brian Sherman For The Island Eye News

What is the proper amount of money for the Isle of Palms to contribute to the creation of a memorial to nine Lowcountry residents who lost their lives in a mass shooting in 2015? That question apparently was answered recently, but not without some minor squabbling among members of the City Council.

At its regularly scheduled meeting Sept. 26, the Council voted 5-4 to change a proposal to help pay for the Emanuel Nine Memorial and raise the city’s contribution from $50,000 to $100,000. Shortly thereafter, the Council approved the amended motion by a 6-3 count.

When it’s completed, the memorial will pay tribute to the nine members of Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Charleston who were murdered by a white supremacist during a Bible study the evening of June 17, 2015. There was little dissent at the IOP Council meeting concerning the need to make a donation to the cause; the amount of the contribution, however, was at issue.

The motion to double the proposed expenditure from $50,000 to $100,000 – to be taken out of the money the city raises by investing funds in interest-earning accounts – came from Council Member Rusty Streetman.

“We’re talking about a tragedy that happened in the Lowcountry area. Other communities are participating and giving on behalf of this, and I think as well as we’re doing that another $50,000 for this great cause would be the right thing for us to do,” Streetman said.

Council Member Katie Miars disagreed with her colleague, pointing out that the proposed contribution was much lower when the matter was discussed at the Council’s September workshop.

“Councilman Streetman is putting us in a bad position now of having to sound like we don’t care about a really wonderful thing that the city and the community are doing, and I totally think that we do need to be as supportive of this as we can, within reason,” she commented. “If we wanted to be in step per capita with somewhere like Mount Pleasant, that’s where we came

up with the number $15,000 or $12,000 or something like that. And we all thought that sounded low, so we said $50,000. For a community our size, this is a very generous donation.”

Streetman that “I’ve got a rebuttal for that,” but, before he could voice his opinion, Miars pointed out that “I don’t think I was done speaking.”

“I think $50,000 is a very nice, generous donation, and I don’t think we’re going to be scoffed at for that,” she said before yielding the floor to Streetman.

“I resent the insult because I didn’t mean it personally,” he responded. “Our city is a rich little city. Will it last forever? I don’t know. But we have the funds. We have the opportunity to give more on this than $50,000, and I think it would be a good gesture on our part and a humanitarian gesture to do just that. I’m not casting any aspersions on anyone or the city itself. And I’m not trying to grandstand on this either. This is something I think is the right thing to do.”

Council Member Scott Pierce agreed with Miars that $50,000 would be “a very generous” contribution and pointed out that “we do not have an endless amount of money. If we look at all the revenue coming in this year and all the expenditures going out, we’re upside down $641,000. We are a strong financial city. We’re not a rich little city that has an endless bucket of money.”

Pierce also suggested that the city ask the Charleston Area Convention & Visitors Bureau to match IOP’s $50,000 donation, which would bring the total contribution to $100,000. The city sends well over $1 million a year in accommodations tax money to the CVB. His suggestion apparently fell on deaf ears.

According to Mayor Phillip Pounds, the city has a fiscal year 2023 surplus of between $1.2 million and $1.3 million and $41 million that’s generating interest income.

“It’s certainly not going to hurt our city to do something,” he said.

Voting to raise the contribution from $50,000 were Pounds, Jimmy Ward, Kevin Popson, Jan Anderson and Streetman, while Miars, Pierce, John Bogosian and Blair Hahn opposed the amendment. The amended motion passed 6-3, with support from Hahn.

Five of eight

Continued from page 1

incumbent who attended the forum, was joined in the minority by Jan Anderson, Katie Miars and John Bogosian.

At the forum, Ahmuty said the referendum has struck a balance between homeowners’ rights and maintaining the island’s quality of life, adding that “I would love to see generation after generation grow up here.”

“Property rights are defined in the zoning ordinance,” Duffy pointed out. “The referendum is an excellent approach.”

Both Pierce and Campsen said they support the referendum, with the latter noting that “every other community has established limits.” Carroll seemed to disagree, saying that the short-term rental issue “can be resolved with common sense solutions.”

of working on agendas,” he said.

Carroll said “there’s not a lot of time for them to dialogue effectively. We need to find common ground and compromise,” while the other two office seekers were a bit harsher in their assessment of the current Council.

“They don’t do a good job communicating. That’s a reason to get a new Council in place,” Ahmuty said.

“I wouldn’t negotiate one iota. I’d fight them tooth and nail. All we did was close a loophole.”

- Tim Ahmuty

“Those who did not show tonight showed how they really care about the island and their willingness to communicate. There’s a very negative tone from portions of the Council, and, to me, that’s unacceptable,” said Duffy, who served previously on the Council.

mer pointed out that “there’s not much more important than a firefighter when you have a fire.”

The five candidates had differing opinions on the striping of the IOP Connector bridge. The Council passed a resolution in April supporting Concept 5, one of five proposals presented by the South Carolina Department of Transportation. That plan would have one lane of traffic entering IOP, two lanes leaving, a bike and pedestrian path on one side and no emergency lane in the center. Pierce, Carroll and Campsen favored Concept 5, but both Ahmuty and Duffy said they looked forward to the return of the emergency lane.

“There’s a very negative tone from portions of the Council.”

There also were differences of opinion on the question of whether communication is a hallmark of the current Council. After stating that “they’re working within the framework we have, and it’s a challenge,” Campsen noted the lack of “collegial behavior.” Pierce, meanwhile, said “there’s no communication.”

“There’s a lot of dysfunction. We need leadership and camaraderie. It’s a well-intended group of people, but we need to work on issues instead

There also was a difference of opinion on the question of whether the Isle of Palms has trouble recruiting and retaining firefighters. In fact, several candidates denied that the issue exists.

“I don’t think we have a problem,” Pierce said, pointing out that all city employees have received a 24% pay adjustment in the past 15 to 16 months and that the average pay and benefits package for all city employees is now in the neighborhood of $103,000 a year.

“That question is probably a flawed question,” Pierce said.

Campsen and Duffy agreed, though the for-

- Brian Duffy

All five candidates agreed that Chief Kevin Cornett and the Police Department are doing a great job and that beach renourishment is an important function of the city. Ahmuty suggested that IOP have a contractor on retainer who can react “when we need sand and we need it today.”

And they agreed for the most part concerning the ordinances the city passed in November 2022 in an effort to limit development in Wild Dunes, some more vehemently than others.

“The city was well within its rights. The city should always have the option to control commercial development,” Pierce said.

Ahmuty noted that “I wouldn’t negotiate one iota. I’d fight them tooth and nail. All we did was close a loophole.”

Ocean Club

Continued from page 1

preferred, alternative means of achieving the objective of restoring the social club use of Jasper Hall,” said Sullivan’s Island Bathing Club Manager Shep Davis in statement provided to The Island Eye News. “Given that dialogue, the team is enthusiastic to be working with the town to restore those uses for the benefit of island residents.”

The next move for the Ocean

Club will be to try to convince the Board of Zoning Appeals to grant it a business license to operate the proposed club. According to Director of Planning and Zoning Charles Drayton, the BZA’s next meeting is scheduled for Nov. 6.

In presenting the motion at the Sept. 19 meeting, Millimet pointed out that “nothing in this motion prohibits the developers of the Ocean Club from returning to Council with a substantially modified plan that would benefit the entirety of the population of Sullivan’s Island.”

“From my perspective, the door is not closed.”

that should be readily answerable about their plan, and they have not chosen to do that for us,” she said. “I also have concerns that if we approve this plan based on supposedly unique characteristics of this property, I don’t think that would hold up under scrutiny if we’re looking at somebody else trying to run a commercial venture in a single-family district.”

- Council Member Scott Millimet

She added that “in correspondence to their supporters, the Ocean Club is misrepresenting conversations that have happened or not happened with Town Council. I think they think we don’t see these pieces of correspondence.”

Council Member Gary Visser was not at the meeting, and Justin Novak does not participate in the discussions concerning the Ocean Club because an attorney in his law firm represents a person with a financial interest in the proposed project.

Prior to the discussion and vote on the Ocean Club, several local residents spoke in opposition to the plan during the public comments part of the meeting.

“I have been and remain open to discuss my concerns with any member of the public or the development team of the Ocean Club at a mutually convenient time,” he added. “From my perspective, the door is not closed.”

Council Member Jodie Latham noted several reasons why she would be unlikely to vote in favor of the developer’s current proposal.

“I find it frustrating that we continually ask several questions

Millimet said the developers should “no longer negotiate through the press.”

“I find it frustrating

that

Mayor Pat O’Neil pointed out that “we’re not voting against having some type of community center.”

we

continually ask several questions that should be readily answerable about their plan.”

He added that “the other reason I think we need to do this tonight is just to kind of close this chapter in this particular discussion and make it very clear that we’re done with it.”

- Council Member Jodie Latham

“This zoning change is not what most residents of Sullivan’s Island want,” Julia Khoury said, while Howard Holl commented that “we would see more traffic, more noise, alcohol sales, late night activity and increased truck traffic for deliveries.” Ralph Byers pointed out that he was in favor of a community center for the island, but that “I just think we could find one that could be done at a lower cost to the residents. … It doesn’t jive with the financial realities of most of the residents here on the island, particularly the retirees.”

Maiers

Zoning changes

Continued from page 1

homeowners to rent one room and limit the occupancy of short-term rentals. A proposal to require a minimum stay of two nights received little support from the Council.

A fourth proposal – to require listings for short-term rentals to include the owner’s license number – would be an administrative issue that would not need to be codified with a city ordinance.

The possibility of doing away with one-night stays for short-term rentals died after Council members determined that large parties are not really an issue on the Isle of Palms. Jan Anderson suggested that the Council might be overregulating, and Rusty Streetman agreed.

“How much of a problem do we have with one-night blowout parties?” Streetman asked. “If we’re not careful, we tend to overregulate.”

Blair Hahn had similar opinion: “If large parties are the issue, let’s fix the issue. Let’s not go with a huge hammer if it’s not that big of a nail.”

Planning Commission Member Sandy Stone agreed that it doesn’t make sense for homeowners or

property managers to rent for a single night.

The Council eventually will con sider a proposal to limit the occupan cy of newly-constructed homes or homes with a rental license that has lapsed for more than a year to either eight or 12 people, not including children under the age of 2. Properties that had a business license in 2010 can rent to the number of occupants allowed in 2010, even if the home that was on the property 23 years ago was razed and rebuilt. At the Aug. 8 workshop, Director of Building, Planning and Zoning Douglas Kerr noted that between 50 and 100 properties were grandfathered in at that limit.

Stone pointed out that “some trigger needs to bring all the shortterm rentals down to 12.”

Kerr pointed out to Council members that the proposal to allow property owners to rent out a room in their home would apply only to exempted properties – those that are taxed at the 4% rate. As such, the outcome of the upcoming referendum will have no effect on this proposal. Voters will determine Nov. 7 whether the city puts a cap of 1,600 on short-term rental licenses for investor-owned properties.

Naturalist-guided excursions exploring the salt marshes and islands off of Charleston’s coast

Happy Fall Y’all!

Golden Hour:

Once a month, dozens of retrieve rs gather for an hour-long playdate on the beach

By Ada Jenkins

For The Island Eye News

Golden retriever enthusiasts Hannah Shaffer and Kendra Nedell launched Golden Hour Charleston in March 2023 after their dogs, Brinkley and Eddy, became fast friends and broadened their playdates to include more furry pals.

“We were inundated with messages from fellow owners eager to join,” Shaffer shared. “That’s when we knew we had to make it official.”

The pair initiated an Instagram account, @goldenhourchs, as a central platform for others wanting to participate. With more than 400 followers, the account provides details of upcoming meet-ups and highlights from past events.

“In the beginning, we’d have a handful of attendees,” Shaffer reminisced during a recent Tuesday gathering. “Now we regularly see at least 25 dogs.”

Their friendship began serendipitously earlier when Shaffer and Nedell crossed paths during a morning walk. “Eddy and Brinkley clicked right away,” Nedell said.

Documenting their dogs’ adventures on Instagram (@ youvegotbrinkley and @eddytheoverretriever), they piqued the curiosity of fellow golden retriever parents, leading to increased interest in group hangouts.

“It’s developed into such a tightknit community,” Nedell observed, emphasizing the affable nature of golden retrievers.

Dog lovers from across the Charleston area converge, equipped with

Pierce Scott

toys and balls for the dogs to enjoy. Some owners even contribute communal items such as water containers, fostering an environment of camaraderie both for canines and humans.

October may witness a fun twist, with Shaffer (Continued on page 8)

It takes a special person be a “giver” rather than a “taker,” and Scott Pierce is just that special person; he is a focused, dedicated person with a track record that has proven this dedication to all residents of this island.

-Steve & Carly David

Scott listens to his constituents and represents their interests. Let’s give Scott a second term, so that we can preserve the residential quality of this island.

-Georgia Roane

Scott has showcased his forward-thinking, community-first mindset on City Council. His unique data-driven and collaborative approach enriches our problem-solving efforts. Always prepared for meetings, he delves deep into complex issues to grasp the details thoroughly.

-Jan Anderson, Isle of Palms City Council

Scott has demonstrated a consistent concern and voting record in favor of a “residents first” agenda. I have worked with Scott on several issues and found him to consistently provide solutions to concerns relevant to residents.

-Ray Burns, Chairman on IOP Accommodations Tax Advisory Committee

My main goal is to keep our island paradise safe and thriving, and I truly believe that by pulling together as a tight-knit community, we can tackle anything that comes our way. Over the years, I've learned that it's through chatting over backyard fences or while out on a run and having honest conversations that we make the best decisions. With your support on November 7th, you're putting your trust in me to continue protecting what we all love about our home. So, let's keep this good thing going, and together we'll ensure a bright future for our home and for the generations who will get to enjoy it down the line.

-Scott Pierce

Learn about Scott’s platform and share your concerns with him.

Elizabeth CAMPSEN

For IOP City Council

VOTE

NOV 7

“One aspect that particularly stands out about Elizabeth is her proactive engagement in important island issues. She has frequently addressed the Council, providing well-researched and thoughtful insights on matters that significantly impact our community. Her willingness to speak up and advocate for the well-being of residents demonstrates her commitment to the betterment of our island.”

-William J. Mills IOP Resident & Former IOP Planning Commission Member

“With a genuine commitment, Elizabeth has wholeheartedly engaged in local matters, effectively representing both her professional viewpoint and the concerns of Isle of Palms' residents. Through meticulous issue analysis, data verification, and factual substantiation, she brings a grounded perspective to the table.”

-Suzanne Nagelski IOP Resident & Current IOP Planning Commission Member

PLATFORM HIGHLIGHT

PLANNING WITH A PURPOSE

Our primary planning concept is to “enhance the existing character of the island as a quality place to live and protect the environment both on and around the island”. My campaign is deeply rooted in promoting this vision. The island faces mounting pressure from unlimited short term rental growth, neighboring development and the impacts of past decisions. Drawing from my six-year tenure on the Board of Zoning Appeals, I recognize the potential in strategic planning and zoning.

Sensible plans that serve to support the island as a quality place to live also make the island a quality place to visit and do business. Balance is key. Previous decisions that prioritized tourism have damaged our residential footprint. We must embrace plans that serve to retain and attract permanent residents committed to preserving the residential nature of the island and avoiding overtourism.

If elected, I pledge to embrace a residentially focused perspective in all City decisions. I will strive to take only those actions intended to nurture a robust residential, family-oriented community that we can then balance with a healthy business environment and thriving recreational opportunities.

Golden hour

Continued from page 7

teasing the idea of a costume-themed meet-up.

“Dressing them up would be a delightful sight. Plus, it’d help differentiate them,” she said.

Although most meet-ups are held near Station 26½ on Sullivan’s Island, the location is subject to change, especially with Halloween costumes in mind.

Another concern is the presence of coyotes.

“We’re considering a slight relocation. Many of the coyote incidents reported are around Stations 26 and 27,” Nedell expressed.

Coyote trapping signs at the entrance to these beach paths underscore the issue. And while Golden Hour Charleston focuses on fun, Nedell stresses safety, especially given the expanding number of participants.

“It’s crucial to stay vigilant, ensuring dogs don’t stray too far,” she advised.

Generally, these meet-ups have been smooth, thanks to the amiable nature of golden retrievers. However, supervising pets in large gatherings remains essential.

For the latest information or any queries, followers are encouraged to check the Golden Hour Charleston Instagram or reach out directly through direct messages.

Holy Smoke

Incredible barbecue at an incredible price

By Tom Scruggs For The Island Eye News

If you love good pork barbecue, this is for you. The best in the Isle of Palms area may be what you can buy at the semiannual barbecue fundraiser put on by the Men’s Club of Isle of Palms United Methodist Church.

A barbecue pork platter with baked beans, cole slaw, pickles and a roll goes for $10. A pound of barbecue with no sides is also $10. Desserts prepared by women of the church are sold on-site, priced separately.

Pre-order online and pick up at the drive-through at the church on Oct. 7 between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. You can buy tickets online at iopmethodist.com, using Venmo, or place your order at the church and pick it up immediately. Cash, checks and Venmo are accepted.

This is top-notch barbecue, prepared by a master barbecuer from Shelby, North Carolina. The men of the church have done this event in the spring and the fall for a dozen years, so the prepping and serving logistics run flawlessly.

In that time, they’ve served up tons of barbecue and raised well over $100,000 for charity. Since 2018, they’ve focused exclusively on six local charities: East Cooper Community Outreach; East Cooper Meals on Wheels; One80 Place – for veterans and the homeless; HALOS – for grandparents providing foster care; My Sister’s House – for victims of domestic abuse; and Epworth Children’s Home.

So you can feast on barbecue while you help those in our community who need a helping hand. If you’re inclined, you are welcome to make an extra donation when you order on the Venmo site or when you pick up your order.

Nesting season is over on Sullivan’s Island

By Mary Pringle

For The Island Eye News

Loggerhead nesting season on Sullivan’s Island ended on Sept. 17 with the inventory of the final nest at Station 16.

This nest required extra maintenance for several reasons. The turtle mom did a good job of choosing a very good spot high on the primary dune, but she crawled so high that her tiny offspring could have gone back down behind the dune into the Maritime Forest if they saw bright night sky behind the island with no moon visible. To prevent this, we put a 7-inch-wide board behind the marked triangle, blocking the way.

Then Tropical Storm Idalia’s storm surge deposited a barricade of spartina sticks at the

base of the dune that the hatchlings might not have been able to climb over. The Turtle Team took rakes and shovels to clear an opening of about 20 to 25 feet for them. Since the multitude of tiny turtles often spreads out once they erupt from the nest, we used debris that washed in with the storm to make side rails to guide them to the only opening in the spartina wrack line.

Final Results for Sullivan’s Island

A strip of 6-inch-tall lawn edging completed the runway.

Seven days after this construction was complete, we saw an emergence crater and dozens of small tracks that showed us they followed the path made

for them very well, and all made it down to the beach to find the water in the hours before dawn on Sept. 15. We don’t usually do this, but this female loggerhead’s children got the memo and made it out safely to the surf.

Congratulations to the 43 Turtle Team members who faithfully patrolled at dawn to find and protect these nests and make the 2023 season a success. Isle of Palms still has two nests incubating and will not be finished until mid-October.

BR AN DUFFY

6 THINGS YOU MAY NOT KNOW ABOUT 2023 IOP CITY COUNCIL CANDIDATE, BRIAN DUFFY

1 FORMER IOP CITY COUNCILMAN

Served from 2008 to 2011.

Knows the Island’s destiny depends on a quality Council.

Knows the job and listens to residents, not special interests.

2 UNWAVERING ACTIONS

Addressed residents’ concerns about short-term rentals.

Addressed residents' concerns about drainage.

Addressed residents' concerns about the IOP marina management.

3 STANCE ON SHORT-TERM RENTALS

Protect Residents.

Protect the neighborhoods. Enforce our ordinances.

4 DEEPLY ROOTED IN ISLE OF PALMS

Enamored with the Isle of Palms for more than 37 years.

Resident for over 27 years.

5 PUBLIC SERVICE & COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT

City Council.

IOP Turtle Team volunteer.

Cape Romain National Refuge volunteer.

6 ENDORSED BY THE COMMUNITY

Endorsed by Isle of Palms residents including:

Ralph Piening

Mary Alice Monroe

MJ & Vincent O’Brien

Georgia Roane

...And many more!

Mary Pringle

Arlene Dunn

Dana & Bea Love

Pete & Kathleen Doherty

Honor a veteran through the Flags for Heroes program

By Robbie Berg For The Island Eye News

Now is the time to sponsor a flag with the Isle of Palms Exchange Club’s Americanism Committee’s Flags for Heroes fundraiser. Your flag can be flown at the Isle of Palms Exchange Club or at Towne Centre in Mount Pleasant.

You also can be a corporate sponsor by filling out a form at iopflagsforheros.com.

The Exchange Club’s Americanism Committee erected 50 flags for Memorial Day for this new fundraiser and for its first Veterans Day, Nov. 11, members hope to raise 200 flags. What better way to honor a veteran than with a flag for Veterans Day? A flag will wave in the wind in honor of your favorite veteran from Nov. 3 through Nov. 16, with a tag noting his or her name, rank and other info.

The Isle of Palms Exchange Club’s Americanism Committee has provided more than $25,000 in donations this year to veterans organizations including the Fisher House, The Tri-County Veterans Network, Vantage Point Foundation, Project Street Outreach and the Veterans Administration Hospital. The committee also provided donations directly to veterans in need, including bus tickets for employment training and renovation materials for housing.

Many stories could be told by the families and friends who sponsor flags. For example, Kevin Merrill sponsored a Memorial Day flag for his family’s hero – his father, John W. Merrill, known to everyone as Bill. Kevin told us that his father served during World War II with his brother. He raised five children and was “about family, faith, friends and the United States.”

Thank you to our fallen veterans and their families for their ultimate sacrifice and to our veterans who have served our country throughout the years here at home and across the world.

Please help support the Americanism Committee and local veterans and their families: single flag - $75; three flags - $200; bronze sponsor, five flags - $300; silver sponsor, 10 flags - $500; gold sponsor, 20 flags - $1,000.

Have a ‘howling’ fun time at the IOP farmers market

By Tammy Cox For The Island Eye News

The Isle of Palms Recreation Department will host its final farmers market of the 2023 season Oct. 19 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.

The Halloween-themed market will include local farmers and produce; local artists, crafters and photographers; vendors, booths and displays; live music; food trucks; specialty food; fairy hair; free family-friendly activities such as balloon art, games, face painting and a scavenger hunt; a playground; open play recreation fields and courts; and free gifts, while supplies last.

“Well, we have had an amazing season, and we cannot wait to top it off with our special Halloween-themed grand finale. Costumes, decorations, games, great music, delicious food and snack options, over 60 vendor booths, fairy hair, free balloon art, face painting, games and more,” said IOP Recreation Director Karrie Ferrell. “It will be a howling fun time for all ages.”

Island Eye • LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Reddy or Not

The November vote

By Rom Reddy

On Nov. 7, we the people have an opportunity to fix a Council that is out of control. The latest example of this situation is the Sept. 26 vote to donate $100,000 of taxpayer money to a memorial for the victims of the 2015 shooting at Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Charleston

First, regardless of the merits of the cause, Council has no business donating taxpayer money to any private charity. Period. Certainly not at this level. Individual Council members are welcome to donate to their favorite causes, and the Council can certainly facilitate private donations to a worthy cause. However, the Council deciding to donate big dollars to a private charity is bad governance and should certainly be banned.

Here is how this played out. The Council discussed this donation at their September workshop and generally agreed that a donation of $12,000 to $15,000 is “probably the right number.” Then the virtue signaling began. They decided the cause is so good that they needed to donate $50,000 of our dollars as a “generous contribution.” Then Councilman Rusty Streetman intervened. Since he is running for re-election in November, he decided he is the chief virtue signaler – so taxpayers should donate $100,000 to this cause. We are a “rich little city,” he said.

With no diligence, our taxpayer-dollar donations were increased by a factor of eight, so every one of those voting in favor of the contribution could feel virtuous. The amendment raising the number from $50,000 to $100,00 passed by a 5-4 margin, with Streetman, Mayor Phillip Pounds, Jimmy Ward, Kevin Popson and Jan Anderson voting in favor and Scott Pierce, John Bogosian, Blair Hahn and Katie Miars opposing the measure. The amended motion passed 6-3, with Hahn voting in favor this time.

During the discussion, Ward said since the city is running a large surplus this year, it has an obligation to make a big charitable donation. Wake up, Ward. I thought you were an accountant. We are running a budgeted deficit this year.

It would be nice to know how much these Council members donated of their own money to the Emanuel Nine Memorial. Add to this the fact that Popson, Streetman and Ward, a few days after voting our dollars away, declined to attend an excellent forum for candidates running for election. They apparently don’t feel they need to be accountable to the voters. They have also declined to answer any questions this newspaper has asked on where they stand on issues. Once again, their arrogance shows as they look down on the residents of Isle of Palms. Remember we the people – we certainly will Nov. 7. Let’s get these irresponsible stewards of our dollars out of office.

One factor does not determine property values

The Isle of Palms is being inundated with real estate data, most of which seems geared toward stoking fear about property values in the event of a short-term rental cap. These messages originate with investors, our business-run Chamber of Commerce, select Realtors, property managers and anonymous correspondents. As a Realtor myself, I have access to the data, but its implications diverge markedly from what fills my mailbox.  Making absolute predictions based on a sole factor is an exercise in futility. Selectively cherry-picking data from a small market segment can easily manipulate perceptions. For instance, omitting certain property types or select time frames can create the illusion of plummeting property values, while alternative selections can indicate skyrocketing prices. Those who make either such claim are not grappling with reality. Understanding property values necessitates a holistic view encompassing factors such as interest rates, economic conditions, supply and demand, real estate trends, shifting demographics, natural disasters, pandemics, politics and more. Recent headlines in the Post and Courier that stated “declining home sales due to mortgage rate hikes, elevated prices and limited inventory” underscore this complexity.

A recent weekly real estate featured article stated that Sullivan’s Island is “close to everything, without the bustle of renters” and suggests that short-term rental regulations can indeed influence residential quality of life, potentially driving prices up. An excess of STRs may erode community cohesion, deterring long-term residents. Is it possible that thoughtful regulations preserving neighborhood character can enhance desirability, boosting property values? I tend to believe it is.

As a crucial vote looms, I implore residents to think critically. Our community’s destiny lies in our hands, not those of tourists, investors or businesses. I believe that striving for a balanced approach on our island is the surest path to maintain property prices. Please vote yes on Nov. 7.

Brenda Rosenthal Isle of Palms

Committed to facts and data

Many of our current City Council members have consistently prioritized external interests over the concerns of local voters. Their zealous defense of commercial interests has led to a deliberate strategy aimed at fostering division through:

Regional scapegoating: Blaming neighboring communities for our traffic and congestion issues. For instance, in a Sept. 14 YouTube video interview, Councilman Rusty Streetman claimed1: “The ones creating the traffic are the ones that come over for the day – we all know that.”

We don’t know that. Consider the supporting services – housecleaning, landscaping and golf cart rental – plus the number of cars parked outside most rentals, and short-term rentals clearly create considerable traffic.

Neighborhood polarization: Fueling class divisions within the community, exemplified by denying beach (Continued on page 13)

renourishment to high-net-worth individuals on the south side and continually referring to those “behind the gates.” In an Aug. 28 YouTube video, Councilman Blair Hahn states2: “Folks that live behind gates that don’t like short-term rentals. They live behind gates to protect themselves from the unwashed masses and are now trying to run those same people off the island.”

The fact of the matter is, we have more STRs inside the gates than outside.

Individual misrepresentation: False claims that proponents of STR caps are “newcomers” or outsiders are intentionally misleading. In a Sept. 22 YouTube video interview, Councilman Jimmy Ward commented:3 “I don’t like the way things are heading with all the fear tactics and trying to scare the bejesus out of everybody that lives here. Money is being spent from the outside. It’s not being spent from (by) people here.”

Technically, the only money coming from the outside is in support of unlimited STRs.

The good news is we have four residential, non-political-career candidates running despite the contentious situation. Incumbent Scott Pierce has consistently voted in the best interest of IOP residents. Tim Ahmuty, Elizabeth Campsen and Brian Duffy are not only willing to step up, they’re prepared to do the homework, obtain accurate data and understand the facts before making decisions.

These four candidates take a balanced approach to meeting the current STR homeowners, second homeowners and full-time residents in the middle. I hope you’ll take the time to meet them and get to know them, and then consider their unbiased emphasis on facts and data, their logical approach and their willingness to take action when you vote in November.

Tony Santiago Isle of Palms

1 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wzVYxSOUndc&t=16s&ab_channel=PalmRepublic, 16:58

2 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UfgMUe7Fd1g&ab_channel=PalmRepublic, 11:36

3 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vFJ91O8QxZc&ab_channel=PalmRepublic 16:27

A kinder solution

More than 20 years ago, the level of permitted pruning in the accreted land by front beach homeowners on Sullivan’s Island was 3 feet max, an ideal height for views, breezes and small wildlife. Since then, Town Council has raised the limit to 5 feet, allowing small wildlife to give way to coyotes, who hide easily now in the taller vegetation. The arrival and increase, however, of these large predators does not merit their slaughter. Let’s try a kinder solution than Town Council’s plan to trap and shoot. If we return to the original 3-foot allowance, front row homeowners will pay for the pruning, and, unable to find cover, the coyotes will move on.

Katherine Guckenberger Sullivan’s Island

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Source: Saltwatertides.com

Election 2023

IOP Council candidates voice their opinions

The Island Eye News asked the eight candidates for four spots on the Isle of Palms Council for their opinions on four questions that are important to the people of IOP. Here are the answers provided by Tim Ahmuty, Elizabeth Campsen, Ashley Carroll, Brian Duffy and Scott Pierce. We asked the other three candidates – Kevin Popson, Rusty Streetman and Jimmy Ward – for their opinions as well, but, for whatever reason, they chose not to respond.

1. Should the Isle of Palms Connector be returned to its original striping configuration or changed in some other way? Explain.

TIM AHMUTY - Yes. The Isle of Palms Connector should be put back to its original configuration. The current configuration is evidence that we only need one lane on, one lane off. The emergency lane would provide a safer and efficient path for EMS to enter and exit the island. I would also like to see one safe bike/walk lane with a traffic barrier separating pedestrians and motor vehicles.

ELIZABETH CAMPSEN - No. Traffic demand across the Connector is over capacity. Re-striping the Connector with two lanes off island will move up to 1,200 more cars an hour off island during peak times and significantly improve traffic flow. Additionally, IOP, Mount Pleasant and the SCDOT are working on a permanent plan to re-time traffic signals at Rifle Range and 14th Avenue, which will provide even more capacity. Rather than return to a 30-year-old traffic configuration to answer emergency service concerns, Council recently approved six paramedics for the Fire Department, providing the island with the same emergency medical care found on an ambulance. We also benefit from the county stationing an ambulance on the island during summer weekends, when available. I would like to explore adding an emergency vehicle to our public safety fleet to ensure we are as prepared as possible in the event of an emergency.

ASHLEY CARROLL - Under state law, it can only be changed back to its current configuration if both Mount Pleasant and IOP agree. We can come up with a compromise to determine if something else should be done, including getting input and advice from police, fire, etc., from all surrounding areas, to determine the safest and best configuration for our Connector.

I would support option 5 because of the ability to get people off the island faster. This seems to be the main frustration expressed by residents when they’re not able to get to the grocery store, to dinner or to Mount Pleasant in the case of a family emergency. I believe that if this design would help to ease the frustrations of residents and day visitors, then it should be heavily considered. If this is one thing we can do, it’s a step in the right direction in working toward being a cohesive community.

Not having a middle lane on the Connector the past few years has not seemed to be an issue for emergency vehicles. That is more often an issue on Palm Boulevard. And with the ability to get people off the island quicker, this should help alleviate the traffic buildup on Palm Boulevard, which would allow emergency vehicles to navigate safely and more quickly.

BRIAN DUFFY - I concur with retired Fire Chief Ann Graham’s sentiments about keeping the center lane designated and open for emergency vehicles for the safety of the island’s residents and visitors. She is correct in saying life safety must come first. I am no expert on life safety, but a 3.5-foot buffer between traffic and bicyclists seems inadequate. The Ravenel Bridge seems to do fine with a 12-foot multi-use path and concrete barrier that was included in the design and construction. Since I do not think the IOP Connector was designed to handle the load of a similar concrete barrier like the Ravenel Bridge, life safety concerns need to be met in a different manner. Fortunately, SCDOT provided two configurations that approach meeting life safety concerns while addressing bike and pedestrian use; each includes a 10-foot multi-use path, a 6-foot buffer, two 11-foot travel lanes with a 10-foot paved median between – the difference being which side of the bridge the multi-use path is on. I believe either of these configurations balances the concerns of all interested parties.

SCOTT PIERCE - No. The option with two lanes exiting IOP and one lane entering, plus a pedestrian and bike lane, is a “win-win” for residents and visitors. It also meets the requirements of our first responders.

IOP experiences about 10 million annual crossings over the Connector and Breach Inlet and the trend is up. Five options were presented by SCDOT Director Perry in December 2022. Chief Oliverius and Chief Cornett weighed the merits of each option from a public safety perspective.

I wrote to The Island Eye News in January supporting this option because:

• Capacity doubles to exit IOP – Traffic capacity on the exit lanes will increase by 1,200 cars per hour, reducing the time to exit by 50%.

• Improves public safety – Emergency response exiting IOP would be improved with the additional lane capacity for roughly 700 health-related responses per year.

• Reduced congestion/improved neighborhood safety – The additional capacity reduces cross-island neighborhood traffic, darting to find an exit route, frustration levels and risk to children/pedestrians in crosswalks.

• Reduced Sullivan’s Island/Breach Inlet traffic – Cross-island traffic over Breach Inlet to escape via Ben Sawyer bridge will be reduced.

• Improved parking for visitors – With the improved traffic flow in town and on/off Palm Boulevard, it should be easier/quicker for visitors to locate vacant parking.

2. Is there anything that can be done about the parking and traffic issues on the island?

ELIZABETH CAMPSEN - A study of Palm

Boulevard between 21st and 41st avenues is currently underway, giving us a chance to evaluate the parking layout as well as address pedestrian, bicyclist and golf cart needs there. With 100 feet of right-of-way, there is plenty of opportunity for improvement.

I will investigate changing the short-term traffic counters on Palm to permanent, real time traffic counters to get a true picture of traffic volumes. It is also necessary to add a permanent counter beyond 41st and before Palmetto Drive.

The city is contracting with a parking management firm to maximize income from our frontbeach lots and free up police officers to focus on public safety issues on the beach. Many state parks with limited parking utilize a reservation process that helps keep visitors from coming to parks if parking isn’t available. Parking attendants then post on social media when there are openings. The city and the county should investigate this process as a way to maximize revenue, manage volume and reduce traffic backups.

ASHLEY CARROLL - Yes, but let’s analyze what the problems are. Where do they stem from? Who are they? The majority of issues are the result of people visiting our island each day. We need to enforce existing parking laws – Public Safety is interviewing parking vendors. We should consider charging a nominal fee, which would help encourage carpooling. This would also help law enforcement in determining where people are parked and who they are. The people that do not want to follow the rules will not come, knowing that their license plate will be recorded, so this should help minimize the issues we may have with unruly visitors.

BRIAN DUFFY - This is by far the most difficult question to answer. Currently the Isle of Palms provides approximately eight times as many public access points and public parking spaces as required to provide full and complete public access. That’s 1,737 parking spaces. So the question becomes how do you determine when the island is full. We know that there are occupancy limits on rooms, buildings and stadiums. So what is the occupancy limit of 4.8 miles of beach that can range from 150 feet wide to 5 feet wide? Who makes those determinations?

SCOTT PIERCE - Yes.

Parking - Random hunting for a parking spot increases neighborhood flows and traffic risk. I’m a proponent of technology and support investing in current-day solutions. With a little investment, current technology can identify vacant spots, notify visitors before/while they come, consider traffic volume and direct visitors to specific spaces/areas. (Continued on page 15)

IOP provides more than adequate parking and about eight times the required public parking for public beach access. Since 2017, IOP has increased public spots by 11%, or 171 spaces, with 1,737 available public spaces.

Traffic - Solutions are directly related to volume, time of day demand and available capacity. See answer to Q1 as part of the solution to double traffic outflow. We can also leverage more traffic cams to alert on/off island traffic, traffic light timing with Mount Pleasant and evaluate parking lot pricing to incentivize beach-goers to come at different times. Longer-term solutions with SCDOT involve the reconfiguration of Palm Boulevard, the IOP Connector entrance and exit ways and/or evaluating other access/egress solutions. We should consider all options and work closely with Mount Pleasant and SCDOT for assistance and funding.

TIM AHMUTY - Yes. We can improve parking and traffic issues on the IOP. First, consistently enforce all parking ordinances. Work with the county park to have pay as you leave policy so not to back up traffic on the Connector and Ocean Boulevard. Have digital signs on 526, Mount Pleasant, all routes that lead to the beach, that can provide up-to-date information on how many parking spots are available. This would provide beach-goers with options to either persevere in traffic, find a different destination or park

PROTECTS

residents’ rights to rent up to 72 days without limitation.

and take the beach shuttle. Have law enforcement manage the traffic flow at the intersections leaving the island on weekends and holidays. It only takes one car not paying attention to the signal to slow traffic to a crawl.

3. What would you do about livability issues such as the noise ordinance, enforcement of codes, etc. Are there other ideas you have to improve livability issues for the residents of the Isle of Palms?

ASHLEY CARROLL - I would like to establish an ad hoc group that includes the chief of police, owners/property managers of the island and city representatives – at least two – to meet and discuss the issues. In my mind, this is who the city needs to be talking to in order to determine what will work and what will not. I have worked as a real estate and property management professional for over 14 years, and my company has enacted several policies that successfully mitigated rental issues. In other words, we – the property managers – have ideas but are not consulted. We need ordinances that are sensible and that police are also able to properly enforce if needed. I would also support giving any resources the police and staff need to effectively enforce ordinances. Without support, rules mean nothing. Working together on these issues will result in an outcome that will benefit everyone. I have full confidence we can have rentals be part of our community that does

LEARN FACTS LEARN FACTS

NOT NOT FEAR FEAR

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city revenue streams – there WILL NOT be a decline in revenue as some represent and Will NOT result in higher taxes.

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current STR license holders –you will maintain your license, no impact.

PROTECTS the ability for all to long-term rent. No limits.

TUESDAY

The Referendum

The 1,600-license limit is a very fair and reasonable limit that protects our Island’s residential community and promotes the city's strategic goal of livability. The proposed rental licenses represent 1/3 (35%) of the inventory of IOP homes and totally excludes any limitations for permanent residents.

not interfere with anyone’s quality of life.

BRIAN DUFFY - There has been a deafening harangue regarding enforcement of ordinances. One idea I have is for the city to procure LSE vehicles for the police and having them do regular rounds within the neighborhoods – listening, looking and engaging with the residents and building relationships. Engaging when livability issues are apparent. It seems to me that this falls right in line with the IOP LENS program building a two-way street of confidence and support.

SCOTT PIERCE - We should consider a fresh approach. My suggestion is four-fold. We talk about livability, review reports with public safety and discuss “enforcement,” all while livability and safety ordinances get stuck in limbo – noise – or we attempt to enforce an ordinance that originated in another era that our public safety teams tell us are unenforceable without probable cause – occupancy.

Set a clear enforcement policy – City policy on livability and safety ordinances require clarity/ consistency. Policy is vague on degree of enforcement and consistency, with some unenforceable. This puts public safety in a tough situation and residents without resolution.

Inventory livability ordinances - Evaluate each for usefulness, enforceability and match to today’s needs. Work with public safety leadership to tell us what needs (Continued on page 16)

PROTECTS eligible heirs to inherit.

PROTECTS home values, which WILL NOT suffer as a result of STR limitations as some misrepresent. Residents do not pay a real estate premium to be the minority amongst rentals.

PROTECTS and preserves IOP's historical BALANCE of residents, 2nd home owners, and visitors.

update, removal or where we need new to help them do their jobs.

Leverage what works – Many communities already have ordinances that work. Adopt or customize to meet IOP’s needs. Involve public safety, residents and businesses for input.

Staff/invest to respond – Residents simply desire timely livability responsiveness and resolution. Ensure staffing levels and complaint tracking tools are sufficient to respond promptly to resolve and trend livability issues as they arise.

TIM AHMUTY - I believe the first step is cooperation and education. Educate the property managers, rental companies and the people that own the investment properties that IOP is a residential community. That our brand is a family-friendly, clean, safe beach community. I also believe that having an on-island location of the rental management company is important. If cooperation does not work, strict enforcement of current laws is always the option.

ELIZABETH CAMPSEN - The first step to addressing livability issues is acknowledging that our tourist season runs from March 1 to Oct. 1 rather than Memorial Day to Labor Day. This will enable the city departments to gear up for the impacts ahead of the season instead of in the middle of it. This applies to public safety and public works.

Second, we need to give our public safety and code enforcement officials the tools needed to enforce livability codes. For example, we need a

residential decibel limit enacted in order to protect residential areas from noise.

Third, I would add the Livability Complaint Management portal to our new Rentalscape STR Management program. It enables residents to fully document complaints in real time, including the ability to add video and audio recordings. It also provides a tracking option allowing residents to track the progress of their complaints.

Finally, I would make sure we have adequate code enforcement officers and resources. Livability code enforcement officers should work to ensure that city codes are followed in relation to residential properties standards, health and sanitation standards, short-term rental regulations, illegal dumping and garbage disposal regulations, which will improve livability for all.

4. Would you support negotiating any of the 2022 Wild Dunes zoning ordinances, specifically number 5, which caps development in Wild Dunes. In reference to the article by Terri Haack in The Island Eye News on Aug. 24, do you support carve-outs in Wild Dunes for 1,020 units outside the commercial zone for the two hotels, effectively rezoning them from residential to commercial and exempting them from short-term rental limitations?

BRIAN DUFFY - The original Beach and Racquet Club PRD documents state it is a planned residential development district. It also states the

Beach and Racquet Club would/could not exceed 2,500 dwelling units, with the caveat that a dwelling unit is defined in the document as containing three bedrooms and two bathrooms. So if Wild Dunes documents less than 7,500 bedrooms and less than 5,000 bathrooms within the PRD defined area, there may be room for negotiation.

The PRD states it “will provide all buyers longterm protection against excessive growth and ensure a continual high-quality living environment.” Regarding Ms. Haack’s Aug.24 commentary, she has engaged in a significant amount of revisionist history in addition to dissembling about loss of tax revenue. Per the PRD, no properties were ever intended to be “purpose built … for short-term rentals.” It states it’s a “recreational residential community.” Her commentary is complete hooey! She goes on to state that the referendum violates “property rights,” but every reader should understand that property rights are defined by the zoning ordinances, and the original Beach and Racquet Club PRD is the zoning ordinances for what is now Wild Dunes. Per the PRD, I see no reason for carve-outs.

SCOTT PIERCE - As a sitting member of Council, it is my practice to refrain from commenting on pending litigation. My voting record is public information.

The objective of zoning ordinances generally and for the city specifically is to prevent overcrowding, to lessen (Continued on page 17)

congestion and to strive to protect and preserve scenic, historic or ecologically sensitive areas, while also providing for adequate open space. Our zoning ordinances allow the city to examine proposed future development to achieve those goals.

While the city has been sued over the recent adoption of certain ordinances, there is a strong presumption in favor of the validity of zoning ordinances. I remain confident in the city’s right to regulate growth.

Regarding the STR exemption, I do not support a carve-out of 1,020 units that could result in a 65% island wide cap with the pending referendum. Since 2000, we’ve seen a nearly 6% population decline, and these carve-outs could hasten further declines.

Regarding frequently suggested large residential carve-outs to exclude this or that when considering short-term rental caps, we should acknowledge that any time a carve-out is suggested, it increases the total island-wide cap, and it should always be considered.

Rezoning additional land in Wild Dunes or other parts of IOP to commercial would be detrimental to our quality of life and invite more commercialization to residential neighborhoods. I support exclusion of the IOP commercial district from caps. STR licenses are for commercial businesses.

TIM AHMUTY - I would not support negotiat-

ing any of the 2022 wild dunes zoning ordinances. As stewards of our island, it is our responsibility to preserve and protect as much open space and green space as possible. I would not support any carve-outs that would rezone residential to commercial zoning. Wild dunes is a planned residential development not intended for majority investment property. Wild Dunes is a beautiful community; let’s keep it that way.

ELIZABETH CAMPSEN - No. In 2004, the city recognized our Front Beach area was being overwhelmed by hotels and residential development in zoning districts designed to support varied commercial uses. The trend led to concerns about density and an overall lack of developmental regulation and control. To preserve the mix, our code was revised, prohibiting hotels and eliminating residential construction as approved uses in commercial districts. Eighteen years later, zoning changes were again necessary to ensure residential sub-districts in Wild Dunes weren’t overwhelmed by a growing transient accommodation element and more amenities weren’t converted to parking lots, home sites or purpose-built vacation rental condominiums. The purpose of the 2022 Wild Dunes zoning ordinances was to protect our community from undesirable development, exactly like the actions in 2004. They were thoughtful and appropriate. I support them fully as enacted.

No. The only dwelling units I support removing from STR limitations are located in our existing

commercial districts. Our historically referenced 33% STRs didn’t have a multitude of carve-outs and therefore I will continue to support the passage of the referendum, as it is the only plan that honors our historically referenced STR percentage, protecting the remainder of the island. It sets our island-wide STR percentage at 35%, which is a reasonable limit. Additionally, the magnitude of the multiple carveouts suggested would open over 3,000 of our 4,586 dwelling units to STR use. That level of saturation is unreasonable, unsustainable and not in line with our primary planning concept of enhancing the existing character of the island as a quality place to live. Supporting the referendum preserves a reasonable balance among primary residents, second homeowners and short-term rentals.

ASHLEY CARROLL - A few thoughts:

• I need more details about that agreement before I comment on something that is currently in litigation.

• I do support the ordinance as it has been passed, and I understand that there is no interest on Council right now to change the ordinance as written. I do not believe any more condos/hotels are needed on this island.

• Should the lawsuit from Wild Dunes be successful, though, they should be able to change their agreement so long as it goes through the regular process with City Council for input and analysis, just as any other project would that wish to make major changes.

LENS to sponsor open house at IOP Fire Department

By Ada Jenkins For The Island Eye News

The Isle of Palms Fire Department will host an open house from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Oct. 20 in the city’s Public Safety Building, sponsored by the Law Enforcement Neighborhood Support program and featuring an abundance of food, fun activities and safety demonstrations. Everyone is welcome and encouraged to stop by at any time throughout the duration of the event.

Former City Council Member Ted Kinghorn plays a significant role in organizing various community events through LENS.

“The Fire Department initiated this open house,” said Kinghorn. “It is something that we were happy to support and fund as a sponsor.”

LENS works to instill a positive relationship between law enforcement and local citizens.

“The whole effort is to bring the community together, to make sure that kids are comfortable with law enforcement and we give an opportunity for the law enforcement staff to interact with our neighbors and children,” Kinghorn explained.

In addition to the Fire Department, the Isle of Palms Police Department will also be in attendance. Both departments will provide demonstrations such as the use of a fire hose and showing off the recently established K-9 unit.

Another canine who will be making an ap-

pearance is Sparky the Fire Dog, the official mascot of the National Fire Protection Association. Sparky’s name comes from the idea that sparks from electricity contribute to household fires.

“It’s just going to be good fun for the kids,” Kinghorn commented in reference to the mascot’s attendance. “It’s a fun way to educate the younger crowd.”

While LENS works to serve the residents of Isle of Palms, the organization also works to serve the law enforcement community through a variety of programs. These include setting up scholarships and hardship funds for police officers and their families, all provided through private funding and donations from the community.

“The nature of the program is to boost morale on both sides,” Kinghorn emphasized. “It’s essential to create opportunities like this for the police to interact with our citizens.”

While the upcoming open house is the first of its kind in collaboration with the Fire Department, it surely won’t be the last. Having hosted six events in the first half of this year, golf cart safety and swim-

ming programs are on the horizon. Kinghorn said there’s “lots to look forward to.”

For more information on the open house and future LENS events, visit lensiop.org.

Casting nets and building bonds

By Laura Anderson

For The Island Eye News

As summer was making a soft landing into the heart of September, the Isle of Palms Law Enforcement Neighborhood Support program hosted a Saturday morning event at the IOP Exchange Club that resonated in the heartbeats of community camaraderie. On Sept. 16, Crabbing with Tia took place on a breezy 75-degree day, with a full sun illuminating the vibrant marsh and calm intracoastal waters.

There was an impressive turnout of families, neighbors and friends, with kids all bubbly and thrilled to learn the marine ropes. There was something magnetic about the way the nets swooshed and lapped on the water as youngsters learned how to catch blue crabs and fish, the essence of coastal living.

A heartwarming moment was when past board member of the IOP Exchange Club and Waterfront Improvement Committee Co-chair Ted Kinghorn pulled up a basket teeming with puffer fish and blue crabs. The gleam in the eyes of the children as they touched and observed these marine creatures up close was a scene straight out of Hollywood.

Three members of the IOP Police Department mingled with attendees, overseeing the safety of the children on the dock, demonstrating a blend of community support and safety. Crew members from Crabbing with Tia played the role of coastal mentors, showing the youngsters how to cast nets, pull them up and choose the right bait. Their skilled guidance made the art of crabbing seem almost poetic.

As the day unfolded, families relished lump crab and crab cakes donated by the Isle of Palms Harris Teeter and, of course, Domino’s pizza for the little ones with less expansive palates. The laughter, the chatter and the aroma of fresh crab filled the coastal breeze, etching the day in everyone’s memory.

Crabbing with Tia was a gem in the crown of a new initiative dubbed The LENS Lieutenants program, whose mission is to host community events that are both educational and safety-centric for kids.

LENS Endowment Oversight Committee member Jim Thompson celebrated his 80th birthday with his pseudo-adopted grandkids at the event.

“The LENS program is a coming-of-age program that really does a terrific job focusing on not only the police but neighborhood support and bringing community together. You don’t have to be an IOP resident to enjoy the many perks of the IOP Exchange Club. For them [grandkids] to have something like this to do, it’s just so special. They don’t get this in Charlotte, North Carolina,” Thompson beamed. The tale of community bonding didn’t end

LENS hosts a day of ‘Crabbing with Tia’ at the Isle of Palms Exchange Club

there. Abigail Derr, a mother who attended with her children, was overwhelmed.

“We are loving these events. We did the bicycle rodeo in the spring, and it’s just been great. My kids couldn’t wait to go crabbing today,” she said.

Grady Marsh, owner of Just Beachy Golf Cart Rentals, who had his kids by his side, attended the recent LENS Boating Certification Course and said LENS was “an awesome program for kids and parents, truly binding the community together.” While reflecting on the day’s festivities and former events, Marsh said, “I’m pumped because my kids don’t know how to crab, so now they’ll be able to teach me. And my son is still super excited about getting his boating certification last weekend.”

Crabbing with Tia was more than just a crabbing event. It was a collage of priceless memories, educational fun and community bonding. It seamlessly added to the roster of successful events rolled out by the LENS program this year, from wine tastings to bicycle rodeos.

As the sun cast long shadows on the deck, the essence of community living was palpable. The

smiles, the shared laughter and the collective learning were the stitches that wove the fabric of Isle of Palms community tighter. The LENS Lieutenants program is indeed nurturing a culture that promotes not only knowledge but also an endearing camaraderie, promising many more meaningful and fun-filled events in the days to come.

To learn more about the program, how to join and upcoming events, visit lensiop.org.

You’ll find these medicinal plants along many beach paths

By Mary Pringle

For The Island Eye News

Monarda punctata is an herbaceous perennial in the mint family. It is called a biennial by some people. Most people know it as spotted bee balm, horsemint, dotted mint or bergamot. Carl Linnaeus named this genus monarda in honor of physician and botanist Nicolas Bautista Monardes of Seville, Spain – 1493-1588 – who studied medicinal plants in Spain but did not come to the New World.

It has nectar-rich spotted yellow flowers on top of a woody stem with whorls of large lavender leaves called bracts and reaches 2 feet tall or more. Blooming now at the end of summer and into the fall, it can be seen on many of our beach paths since it is drought-tolerant and thrives in well-drained sandy soil. In my backyard, it appears to be taking over, trying to crowd out the lantana, evening primrose, spiderwort and gaillardia and reaching chest height. It can be cut it back in July or before the buds appear to keep

it bushier and not so tall and leggy without harming the blooms that will come in August and September.

This week I have been watching butterflies along with about five species of bees and wasps all over it, enjoying the nectar and pollen. Apparently, it attracts a beneficial kind of wasp that helps control grubs and harmful caterpillars. If the seed heads are left over the winter, they can feed birds such as finches, juncos and native sparrows.

As you may know, mint tea is a good remedy for an upset stomach. The common name horsemint was given to this native plant because it was used medicinally for horses. The leaves contain an oil called thymol, an antiseptic and fungicide.

by

This is why some say they smell like oregano or thyme when crushed. Tea made from them has been used to treat not only upset stomachs but also colds, diarrhea, neuralgia and kidney disease.

Spotted bee balm can be started from seed that you can collect from plants growing on the beach paths after the flowers fade, but they are also available at parkseed.com. Once you have them in your garden, they will reseed themselves every year.

Rec Department Sea Stroll & Learn is all about birds

By Tammy Cox

For The Island Eye News

The Isle of Palms Recreation Department and Coastal Expeditions will host their next Serenity Sea Stroll & Learn Oct. 12, beginning at 7:30 a.m. at the beach near 25th Avenue.

This event is the fourth in a free series offered by the IOP Rec Department. Abbi Cochran, Coastal Expeditions IOP manager, guide and naturalist, will share details about birds that are indigenous to the South Carolina coast.

“Seabirds like pelicans, terns and skimmers nest together in large colonies along islands and beaches,” said Cochran. “The large numbers help them to protect their nests from predators.”

“They feed on schooling fish,” she added.

Cochran also will share details and information on shorebirds that inhabit the inter-tidal areas and feed on invertebrates in the soil.

“Let your mind take flight as you walk with us and learn about our beautiful South Carolina coastal birds. Fitness and learning in one day –the ultimate mind-body experience,” said IOP Recreation Department

Director Karrie Ferrell.

In the event of inclement weather, follow Isle of Palms Recreation Department social media updates. The rain date is Oct. 13.

The next 2023 Serenity Sea Stroll & Learn series is scheduled for Nov. 9 and will be all about sea life.

Visit IOP.net to learn more and register for free.

Residents encouraged to install fire sprinklers

By Chaundra Yudchenko For The Island Eye News

The Isle of Palms Fire Department and the Isle of Palms Water and Sewer Commission have partnered to facilitate the installation of cost-effective home fire sprinklers on the island.

According to the National Fire Protection Association, if a home fire occurs, the risk of fatality decreases by about 80% if the home is equipped with fire sprinklers, which stop the fire and smoke from spreading, allowing more time to safely escape while first responders are en route.

The IOPWSC recently adopted changes to its policy, making it easier for property owners to install a home sprinkler system. The recommended system is more cost-effective since it only requires a licensed plumber to install and uses the same plumbing currently in the house. No additional water supply lines are needed, which potentially saves the homeowner thousands of dollars. Homeowners also have the option to conceal their fire sprinklers with a cover so they are less visible.

“This initiative and our partnership with the Isle of Palms Water and Sewer Commission offers a more convenient and affordable way to add another layer of fire safety.”

Home fire sprinklers activate when heated by fire only and not by smoke or smoke alarms. Only the sprinkler closest to the fire activates and sprays water on the fire. According to the Home Fire Sprinkler Coalition, new homes burn just as often as older homes and fires in new homes are more deadly because of the materials used to construct them.

• Isle of Palms Fire Chief Craig Oliverius

Although home fire sprinkler systems are not required by the city of Isle of Palms, the Fire Department encourages residents to consider installing them since they are essential to saving lives and property – and they also can lower home insurance premiums.

“Once there is a fire, we’re racing against the clock to rescue someone before the fire grows beyond our control,” said Isle of Palms Fire Marshal Travis Stafford. “The sprinklers give people time to leave the home, and they allow more time for firefighters to arrive on the scene to swiftly extinguish the flames.”

City officials believe that home fire sprinklers could greatly enhance homeowners’ overall fire safety plan.

“This initiative and our partnership with the Isle of Palms Water and Sewer Commission offers a more convenient and affordable way to add another layer of fire safety,” said Isle of Palms Fire Chief Craig Oliverius. “The plumber will follow National Fire Protection Association guidelines to install the system, and there is no need for a certified fire sprinkler technician or extensive design work. We hope residents and all homeowners on the island will take advantage because this equipment will help protect their investment. Most importantly, it can save lives.”

While home fire sprinklers are not activated by smoke, homeowners are encouraged to continue maintaining their smoke alarms because they still play a key role in helping residents escape a fire. Larger homes may need to be evaluated for sprinkler system compatibility and to determine if additional smoke alarms are needed.

For more information about installing home fire sprinklers, contact the Isle of Palms Building Department at 843-886-9912.

The Windjammer readies for the Red Clay Strays

By Vincent Iwinski

For The Island Eye News

The Windjammer in Isle of Palms welcomes to the Aloha Stage the Red Clay Strays on Oct. 6.

Hailing from Mobile, Alabama, the Red Clay Strays have spent the past year trailblazing, touring behind their most recent album, Moment of Truth, hitting festival stages with their explosive chemistry and eclectic country/rock ‘n’ roll sound that is distinctively their own.

Soul Shine Studios had a chance to chat with guitarist/backup vocalist and primary songwriter Drew Nix.

SSS: What’s the link between your home state of Alabama and your music?

Nix: In Mobile, there’s a melting pot of cultures and different styles of music. We gather a lot from the blues, rock ‘n’ roll and good old honkytonk country music, which is all pretty big down here. We’ve gotten super into the Muscle Shoals music in the last few years as well.

SSS: Tell us a bit about the band’s chemistry.

Nix: We’ve been through so much together, and, as different as we all are stylistically, influence-wise and personality-wise, we each complement each other perfectly. We’re absolutely family at this point.

SSS: Where did you record Moment of Truth?

Nix: We recorded Moment of Truth in Huntsville at a studio with a dude who had a bunch of vintage equipment from when he owned Muscle Shoals Sound at one point.

SSS: What are your favorite moments on Moment of Truth?

Nix: My favorite moments were waking up on the floor every morning and getting to work. It was like a music camp or something. We produced that album all on our own.

SSS: What can we expect on Oct. 6 at the Windjammer?

Nix: You can look forward to a showcase of a bunch of new material and five dudes having an absolute blast on stage.

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Around the Islands

ONGOING

WHAT: Wild Roll Wednesday

WHERE: IOP Recreation Center - High Tide Room

WHEN: 8:30 a.m.-9:30 p.m. • Wednesdays

MORE INFO: Back by popular demand, Wild Roll Wednesday with the Isle of Palms Recreation, Police and Fire departments. Continues through Spring 2024. Each week will feature a different trainer/coach from a different department, and participants will have the opportunity to work out with multiple department team members. To learn more and register, visit IOP.net.

WHAT: Isle of Palms Cleanup Crew Litter Sweeps

WHERE: Check in at beach access by Coconut Joe’s

WHEN: 6 p.m.-7 p.m. Mondays; 7 a.m.-8 a.m. Wednesdays

MORE INFO: Volunteers help for at least 30 minutes. Supplies provided. Enjoy discount at an IOP restaurant afterward. No advance registration –help when you can. Follow us at facebook.com/IOPCleanup.

WHAT: Community meditation

WHERE: IOP Rec Center

WHEN: Thursdays at 9 a.m.

MORE INFO: Outdoors, under the oaks - weather permitting; indoors on colder or bad weather days. Free. To learn more: iop.net/recreation.

WHAT: Yin yoga

WHERE: IOP Rec Center

WHEN: Wednesdays, 6 p.m. to 7:15 p.m.

MORE INFO: Yin Yoga is a beginner-friendly yoga class targeting deep connective tissues and joints and focusing on fascial release and brain health. Beginner class but challenging with limitless benefits. $40/ month; $12 per class. Instructor: Kathy Berry. To learn more: iop.net/ recreation.

WHAT: Dog Obedience

WHERE: IOP Rec Center

WHEN: Mondays, June-December. Kinderpuppy, 5:30 p.m.; Puppy Junior High, 6:30 p.m.; Canine Good Citizenship, 6:30 p.m.; Tricks, 7:30 p.m.

MORE INFO: iop.net.

WHAT: Beach Yoga

WHERE: 25th Avenue

WHEN: 7:30 a.m.

MORE INFO: Every Tuesday. To learn more: IOP.net.

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 6

WHAT:  IOP Community Wellness Fair

WHERE: IOP Recreation Center

WHEN: 7 a.m.-11 a.m.

MORE INFO: Over 25 health and wellness vendors will be on-site to answer questions. East Cooper Medical will provide free cholesterol and glucose screening bloodwork. Delta Pharmacy will provide free flu vaccines for those with health insurance or Medicare. There will also be games and prizes throughout the event. Please register for bloodwork. To learn more: iop.net.

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 7

WHAT: IOP Connector Run

WHERE: The Isle of Palms Connector

WHEN: 8 a.m.-Noon

MORE INFO: Race across the IOP Connector in support of child abuse prevention and the healing of those affected. The race will begin on IOP, cross into Mount Pleasant and return to IOP. Participants of all experience levels are welcome. This event is presented by the IOP Exchange Club, the city of IOP and the town of Mount Pleasant. To learn more: ioprun.com.

WHAT: Beacons Through Time

WHERE: 1815 I’On Ave., Sullivan’s Island

WHEN: Meet and greet - 6:30 p.m. • Presentation - 7 p.m.

MORE INFO: Artist Christian Fiedler will guide us through his motivation and inspiration to use solargraphy to artistically capture Charleston light, known locally as the Sullivan’s Island Lighthouse. To learn more, visit nps.gov/FOSU.

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 12

WHAT: Serenity Sea Stroll & Learn

WHERE: IOP beach at 25th Avenue

WHAT: Abbi Cochran, Coastal Expeditions IOP manager, guide and naturalist, will share details about birds that are indigenous to the South Carolina coast. To learn more: iop.net.

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 19

WHAT: Isle of Palms Farmers Market  WHERE: IOP Recreation Center WHEN: 4 p.m.-7 p.m.

MORE INFO: Theme: “Spooky, Kooky, Ghoulie Funfest.” This is the last IOP farmers market of the year. There will be fresh, local produce, family-friendly activities, food vendors, live music and more. Admission to the farmers market is free and open to the public. To learn more: iop.net.

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 20

WHAT: IOP Public Safety Open House

WHERE: IOP Public Safety Building

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

MORE INFO: Engage with the city’s Fire Department and Police Department. Learn about fire safety and meet Sparky the Fire Dog. There will be an inflatable house, Sunny Daze Ice Cream, Holy City Popcorn, cotton candy, static police vehicle displays and more. Free. To learn more: iop.net.

WHAT: Ghostly Tide Tales

WHERE: IOP Front Beach

WHEN: 6 p.m.

MORE INFO: Listen to ghost stories on Front Beach while sitting by the campfire. Please bring blankets, chairs and a flashlight. Free and open to the public. To learn more: iop.net.

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 27

WHAT: Halloween Carnival and Golf Cart Parade

WHERE: IOP Recreation Center WHEN: 4 p.m.-6 p.m.

MORE INFO: Celebrate “spooky season” on the island. There will be a Halloween costume golf cart parade, a drive-thru haunted house, inflatables, food vendors and treats for children. Free and open to the public. To learn more: iop.net.