live a healthier lifestyle or simply slow down and enjoy island life, every positive step makes our city stronger. As a community, our shared resolutions are just as important. This year let’s recommit to kindness, volunteerism and looking out for our IslandVibesIOP.com 8 CIVICS Mayor’s Message Let’s have a happy, healthy and hopeful new year By Phillip Pounds, Mayor, Isle of Palms As we enter 2026, I want to extend my wishes for a happy, healthy and hopeful new year. There is something truly special about beginning a new year surrounded by neighbors who care for one another and by the natural beauty we are fortunate to call home. The start of a new year often invites reflection and renewal. It’s a time when many of us set resolutions: goals to grow, to give back and to care a little better for ourselves and for each other. Whether your resolution is to spend more time with family, support local businesses, get involved in community events, to reach out to the property owners that are at risk and work with them because I think the challenges going forward are going to be with considering the rights of the property owners and the long-term health of the beaches.” Shilling added that even a small loss in value could permanently alter the island’s integrity and appeal. “With residential property on the island valued at roughly $6.5 billion, even a modest 5%-10% decline would mean hundreds of millions of dollars in lost value, along with significant impacts on short-term rentals and local businesses,” he said. “And after reviewing the 2024 monitoring report, I’m especially concerned about the accelerating erosion rates at Reaches 5 and 6, and the unprecedented loss Beach Preservation Committee From Page 3. at Reach 2 between 2022 and 2024.” All four nominees will be up for approval on Jan. 6 at a special council meeting. Bova, for one, is ready to get started. “I have been observing and following the renourishment projects, and I wrote a letter to the city council saying, ‘I’m really concerned about this,’” Bova said. “I am very much environmentally conscious, and I want to do something for my town.” Ostermann indicated that while he appreciates all past and present efforts to keep IOP beaches as intact as possible, he hopes the new committee can find ways to improve some of the measures. “The beach erosion on Isle of Palms has increased and accelerated to levels not seen before,” he said. “This worries me, and I would like to help orchestrate a response. The committee will ensure that there is permanent focus on the topic.” neighbors – especially our seniors, our youth and those who may be facing challenges. Let us continue to take pride in our island, protect our environment and work together to keep our city safe, welcoming and vibrant. I am proud of the resilience, generosity and spirit that define our community. The year ahead brings opportunities for growth, collaboration and progress, and I look forward to working alongside all of you to make it a successful one. On behalf of our city leadership, thank you for your continued support and involvement. I hope this new year brings peace, good health and new opportunities for us all. One quick project update: We have received the permits for phase 2 of the Waterway Boulevard flood barrier project – great news! We are currently reviewing bids from contractors and should start construction soon. Phase 2 will entail addressing the multi-use path and adding some additional drainage infrastructure in addition to what has already been placed on the golf course. Thank you for the opportunity to serve! Looking forward to the new year! Phillip Pounds, Mayor IOP 843-252-5359 ppounds@iop.net
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MjcyNTM1