special election for Isle of Palms City Council will take place on Tuesday, Nov. 5 to fill the remaining term of council member and top vote-getter Elizabeth Campsen who resigned in August. Residents Josh Hooser, Susan Hill Smith and Rusty Streetman have filed to run. Hooser is seeking his first term and the latter two are former council members. All three candidates responded to the following questionnaire. Candidate responses are listed in alphabetical order by their last name. CANDIDATE Q&A Question 1: What are the main reasons you are seeking election to city council? Josh Hooser: I believe in putting our residents first and will be a and I lead the Isle of Palms Cleanup Crew, which uses volunteer power to fight litter and pollution. Now, I’m serving on a Community Enrichment Task Force to help our city answer challenges and thrive. Rusty Streetman: Our council has accomplished many things, but there’s still much to do. Public safety is a chief concern. Resources to accommodate growing numbers of visitors is another. Public parking, increased enforcement of traffic violators, improved island access and water drainage, and traffic flow will all have to be solved. And because I am familiar with all of these issues from a previous council term, I want to be part of their solutions in order to keep Isle of Palms the kind of place many people like to come and enjoy. Question 2: What are priorities that you would want to focus on during your term? Josh Hooser: Our island thrives on a delicate balance between residential life, our vibrant business community and the recreational amenities that draw both locals and visitors. I will focus on bringing the city’s ATAX money back to the island, resolving short-term rental reform and scrutinizing every dollar spent to make sure that we invest wisely in projects that enhance the quality of life for all. I will stand up to protect the rights of property owners along the coastline and inland, ensuring that everyone on the island can enjoy their property without unnecessary government intrusion. Property rights are a cornerstone of our community, and I will always vote to defend them. Susan Hill Smith: Flooding resiliency – Based on a new Sea Level Rise Adaptation Plan, Isle of Palms can expect 1 foot of sea level rise by 2050, putting 1,250 buildings at risk and impacting 12.5 miles of leader in uniting our residents in a positive direction moving forward. The decisions made in the coming months will significantly impact our island’s future, and I am committed to ensuring our city’s resources are managed wisely. I will not just react to challenges but anticipate them, ensuring that we remain a community where families, nature and local traditions flourish. I’m ready to lead with the vision and heart that our island deserves. Susan Hill Smith: I want to use my talents to strengthen our vibrant community as we face critical challenges. I served on city council from 2018-2021, and while I chose not to run for re-election during our youngest child’s last high school years, I intended to return. With my background in communications, I provide a solutions-based approach, a collaborative spirit and an eye on the future. I created the city’s Environmental Advisory Committee, 6 IslandVibesIOP.com NEWS Three-way race in the homestretch to fill vacant council seat Q&A with candidates vying in November special election By L. C. Leach III A JOSH HOOSER IOP Resident: Full-time since 2018. Tenure: Seeking first term on council. Occupation: Lawyer. SUSAN HILL SMITH IOP Resident: Since 1994. Tenure: Seeking second term on council. Occupation: Recently left Blackbaud's brand marketing team to focus on community and environmental work. RUSTY STREETMAN IOP Resident: Since 1984. Tenure: Seeking second term on council. Occupation: Retired/Bi-Lo, VP store operations, Eastern Region.
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