I wanted to respond specifically regarding the short-term rental (STR) cap and the perception that it’s driving down business. Relying on assumptions instead of examining the underlying data can lead to the wrong conclusion. The facts tell something very different. Here are a few key points that I hope help clarify things: Blaming the STR…
Read MoreThe Marsh Management Plan is a proactive effort by the City to protect Folly Beach’s marshes and reduce flooding throughout the island. As sea levels rise and storms intensify, our marshes play a crucial role in safeguarding roads, homes, and ecosystems. But they’re under pressure from erosion, blocked tidal flow, aging infrastructure, and development. Read…
Read MoreWhat’s Proposed?We want to make Arctic Avenue safer, more welcoming, and more “main-street” friendly by: Why It Matters
Read MoreThe City of Folly Beach is planning a major redesign of Arctic Avenue — the road that runs parallel to the beach from 2nd Street West to 12th Street East. While the City is still working to secure funding for the Arctic Avenue Plan, I’ve received several questions about the proposed redesign and wanted to…
Read MoreThe February 7, 2023 vote to cap short-term rental licenses on Folly Beach stands as a textbook example of how thoughtful, balanced policymaking can safeguard both the character of our community and the long-term value of our real estate. By setting clear limits that preserve neighborhood integrity and manage STR impacts, Folly Beach has fostered…
Read MoreWhat Is the Safety Action Plan? The Folly Beach Safety Action Plan is a roadmap to make our streets safer for everyone—drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians alike. Developed through data analysis, community input, and expert recommendations, it identifies the most urgent crash-hotspots and lays out clear steps to reduce accidents, protect lives, and enhance the look…
Read MoreRecently I met with Eric Lutz and Jenna Stephens and discussed the issue of pedestrian and traffic safety. From those discussions, it is apparent that SCDOT will be conducting a safety audit of the island in an attempt to identify areas that need to be addressed.From my discussions with residents, it’s abundantly clear that pedestrian…
Read MoreAs a candidate for the Folly Beach City Council, I am committed to addressing the long-standing issues that affect our community. One of the most pressing concerns is the state of Arctic Avenue, a bustling road that currently lacks the necessary accommodations for all its users. For years, Arctic Avenue has been primarily designed for…
Read MoreAs a candidate for Mayor, I believe that resilience and infrastructure are the keys to Folly Beach’s future. Our island’s success, both as a community and as a tourism destination, depends on our ability to protect our coastline, strengthen our infrastructure, and plan ahead for the challenges of rising tides and stronger storms. The City…
Read MoreChris Bizzell: Steady, Balanced Leadership for Folly Beach When my wife Stacy and I first visited Folly Beach, we were immediately drawn to its unique and welcoming spirit. While the charm of Center Street and our beautiful beaches captured our hearts, it was the people who made us want to call Folly home. As your…
Read More
