Eight candidates face off for three open City Council Seats
This year, Folly Beach is celebrating its 50th year as a city. The momentous occasion was highlighted last month with a series of events on the island. However, this year has also been one of the most divisive ones in the city’s history. As usual quality of life and property rights are at the center of the issues facing our fair isle. Public officials are under more pressure than ever to make important decisions that will shape Folly’s next 50 years.
Next month’s election will see three seats opening on city council. Councilmember Adam Barker will not seek reelection, while current councilmembers Billy Grooms and Katherine Houghton look to be reelected. They will be challenged by six candidates, including former councilmember Amy Ray. The other five challengers include Chris Bizzell, Sharon DiMuro, Ann Peets, Jeannette Perna, and Jody Lynn Rogers.
With intense public scrutiny and vicious, personal attacks on social media from the usual mob of local keyboard warriors, all eight of these residents have shown that they love Folly Beach and are willing to sacrifice in order to make it better. And for that, The Folly Current salutes all candidates.
We had a chance to catch up with all of the candidates over the last couple of weeks and we asked them a series of questions about themselves, why they want to serve, and what they would focus on if elected.
The Folly Beach Civic Club will be hosting a candidate forum at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 17. All candidates have accepted the invitation. The event will also be live-streamed on YouTube. Residents are invited to email questions to follycandidateforum@gmail.com.
Chris Bizzell — City Council Candidate
Hometown: Greenville, South Carolina
Professional background:
After earning my degree from Clemson University, I entered the textile industry with Milliken, eventually transitioning to our family’s chemical business. I had the privilege of working with my father for half a decade, and subsequently led the company for another five years after his passing.
My professional path then pivoted to information technology, where I specialized in crafting database-driven solutions for both public and private entities. Recently, I launched a new mobile scavenger hunt app for the city of Inman designed to spark tourism and engage visitors.
My wide range of experiences enables me to understand the challenges faced by many Folly Beach businesses. I know the level of commitment and work that it takes to make a small business thrive. As a member of City Council, I will use my experience to help deliver balanced solutions that allow our local establishments to be successful.
I have always been committed to serving the community:
• Currently, I donate my time to help maintain the Folly Civic Club and The Folly Current websites.
• I have mentored a 5th grade student at St. Andrew’s School of Math and Science for the past two school years.
• I served on the Grenville YMCA Board of Directors for 4 years and was Board Member of the Year in 2018.
• I volunteered for five years at the Greenville County Detention Center leading life skills lessons to incarcerated youth.
• I led a basketball outreach program in Greenville for two years that served over 40 at-risk children a week.
When did you move to Folly Beach and what drew you to the community?
When my wife Stacy and I visited Folly Beach, we were immediately drawn to its unique and friendly community. While we loved the charm of Center Street and the beautiful beaches, it was the people that made us want to make Folly our home.
We all say “Keep Folly Folly.” But what is Folly? It’s the people. It’s the folks who are committed to making Folly better by supporting the Civic Club, the Exchange Club, Folly’s Angels, our churches, the Turtle Watch Program, the Garden Club, The Folly Beach Senior Club and WARRIOR SURF. It is the people that make the Folly Beach community truly special and unique.
As a member of City Council, I pledge to work with all residents, city leaders, and businesses to enact balanced rules and regulations that promote livability and protect the fabric of our community.
What do you feel are the most important issues Folly is facing?
To me, all of Folly’s challenges lie in addressing Community, Balance and Livability. This election is about shaping Folly Beach for the next 50 years.
As a member of City Council, I will work with people on both sides of the issues and work to repair division on the island. In order for Folly Beach to move forward and realize its fullest potential as a community, we must find ways to work together and focus our decisions on promoting the collective good.
As a member of City Council, I will make the following issues a top priority:
• Protecting the Balance of Residents and Short Term Rentals
• Public Safety, Parking and Traffiic
• Maintaining and Protecting Our Beaches
• Affordable Long-Term Rental Solutions for Public Safety & Service Workers
• Developing and implementing solutions that enhance the livability of Folly Beach should drive everything we do as a City Council.
Where do you stand on the short-term rental issue and what is the best way to move forward now that the referendum has passed?
The rules and STR limits defined by the ordinance passed in February are in place because the community wishes to protect the balance of full-time residents and short-term rentals. I acknowledge that STR’s are now a part of the housing situation. The ordinance poses no threat to eliminate STR’s. The rules in place simply ensure that a viable long-term community continues to thrive.
To effectively move forward on the STR issue, we need to develop the ISTR Waitlist. As a member of City Council, I pledge to act quickly and facilitate the development and launch of this list.
Additionally, I have had numerous discussions regarding the cap with people on both sides of the issue and a primary concern is the question of transferring a resident’s home to a family member without loss of priority on the waitlist. As a member of City Council, I am open to creating a task force made up of stakeholders on both sides of the issue to examine this question and look for ways to develop family friendly and trust friendly transfer options for those on the waitlist.
This issue is quite complex and needs to be fully studied and verified in order to avoid unintended consequences. I feel that bringing parties together from both sides to carefully study potential solutions to this issue will go a long way towards healing the division on the island regarding the Cap and allow us to move forward as a community.
Why did you decide to run for council?
I am running for City Council because I deeply care about this community and want to help promote initiatives that enhance Community, Balance and Livability.
This election is important. The decisions made by City Council will have profound effects on the nature of our community. I am asking for your vote so that we can work together to truly ‘Keep Folly Folly.’
Sharon DiMuro — City Council Candidate
Hometown: Folly Beach
Professional background:
Retired Attorney (FL, GA, NY, SC)
When did you move to Folly Beach and what drew you to the community?
My husband and I purchased a condo on FB in 2000. We lived here for another 2.5 years before we found a long-term renter and moved to NY for 15 years to take care of aging parents. We relocated back to FB in August of 2018 and have been full-time residents ever since.
What do you feel are the most important issues Folly is facing?
The fall-out from passing the inflexible STR cap at 800 this past February: Dropping property values, reduced resale market, the impact on our restaurants and souvenir stores as we gradually reduce the number of potential tourists by 30% over the next few years, and reduced property tax revenues from the 30% ISTR reduction we will experience.
Where do you stand on the short-term rental issue and what is the best way to move forward now that the referendum has passed?
The number of licenses issued is a Zoning issue for which there should never have been a referendum. Waivers and variances should be permitted on a case-by-case basis, at the very least, for inheritance situations, construction that was caught mid-stream by the referendum’s passage, and commercial district STRs, with an eye towards eventual rescinding of STR cap within the next few years
Why did you decide to run for council?
It’s not okay to complain about a matter if you aren’t willing to do something to change it.
Katherine Houghton — City Council Candidate (incumbent)
Hometown: Stoneham, MA (approximately 9 miles north of Boston)
Professional background:
Ever since I was a child I have enjoyed learning inside and outside the classroom. With encouragement from my family and teachers I pursued advanced degrees and became an administrator in higher education.
This professional journey resulted in me becoming a University/College Dean in the United States and abroad. Therefore, my devotion to seeking knowledge, data, and facts to contribute to the advancement of our society is a standard that I uphold. I value the challenge of determining the problem and exploring the solutions. Oftentimes, a campus administrator must evaluate the circumstances, gain an understanding of the problem, provide alternatives for reasonable solutions, and implement the plan. Additionally, the solutions must be consistently assessed and updated. I am grateful that my acquired skill set and knowledge base has allowed me to transfer my competencies to contribute to the betterment of Folly Beach. Specifically, my background, education, and experience has prepared me to be a leader and public servant.
Community Service, Folly Beach:
• President and Past President of the Civic Club
• Board Member and Member of the Exchange Club
• Former Vice Chair of the Parks and Recreation Board
• Council liaison to the Parks & Recreation Board
• Creator of Folly Beach and James Island Library Programs
• Former Chair of the Advisory Board for the History Museum
• Former Chair of the Halloween Festivities
• Member of the Advisory Committee for the Arts
• Member of the Folly Business Association
• Former member of the Turtle Team
• Member of the Toby Turtle Litter Team
• HOA Board Member Marsh View Villas
• Member of the Garden Club
• Folly Beach Citizen of the Year
• Folly Beach City Councilor
When did you move to Folly Beach and what drew you to the community?
In 2008 I was recruited to Charleston and I lived on James Island. During this time I would visit Folly Beach to walk my dog Lily and very quickly I grew fond of this lovely island. A few years later I decided to purchase my home and become a full time resident. I feel blessed to have discovered Folly and have been privileged to be welcomed into this diverse and vibrant community. Because Folly has given me so much joy, lasting friendships, and magnificent surroundings, I believe that I should never take this gift for granted and I need to give back to the City.
What do you feel are the most important issues Folly is facing?
During my tenure as a council member I have had the opportunity to experience many achievements and challenges. From the beginning of my service the council encountered the pandemic and the aftermath, continuous erosion issues, sea level rise and flooding, safety and security concerns, protection of our environment, and the need to increase programs and services for all citizens (infants to seniors). While these issues must still be addressed on a long term basis other issues such as workforce development, preserving our rich history, and prioritizing our infrastructure are also important matters.
Where do you stand on the short-term rental issue and what is the best way to move forward now that the referendum has passed?
It is my job to listen to and advocate for the residents and voters that selected me to represent them in our nonpartisan governance system. Therefore, I must fairly and equitably view each concern and critically analyze the present and future ramifications of all decisions. The STR issue is a complex and problematic matter because we must work on enforcing the policies that are being violated and reward the compliant owners. We need to continue to revisit some of the ambiguous areas and clarify the process for heirs to receive a one time transfer of STR status, eliminate “event” houses in residential areas, and provide incentives for the homeowners that are excellent landlords and property managers.
Why did you decide to run for reelection?
As I reflected on my civic engagement and community service to Folly Beach I became motivated and compelled to continue to positively and proactively contribute to the quality of life on this unique island. On a personal note my mother Frances taught me to always respect others, celebrate diversity, contribute to the betterment of our community, and love thy neighbor. She expected me to say please and thank you, represent my family with honor, and keep my promises. Professionally, I know that I have the skills, qualities and characteristics that will enable me to provide vision for the future of Folly Beach and empower others to become involved in our governance process. Lastly, it is my belief and hope that fostering a strong sense of community is essential to maintaining a high standard for our quality of life.
Billy Grooms — City Council Candidate (incumbent)
Hometown: As a native South Carolinian, I was raised in Columbia, home of my alma mater USC and known to be famously hot. The Columbia heat prepared me for August on Folly Beach and serving on council. I come from a modest family where I learned principles of honor and discipline from my military father and lessons in humility and compassion from my Baptist mother.
Professional background (including any previous elected positions):
After graduating from USC, I achieved a successful 30+ year career in media management, entertainment and digital integration. In my professional life, I combined my parents’ lessons with business experiences in leadership, creative problem solving, budgeting and effective communication. I worked with the Folly Beach Public Safety Department as a dispatcher and beach patrol and built a great relationship with the Chief, Firefighters and Police team. I have been trained by the Municipal Association of South Carolina in effective municipal governance. I am humbled to currently serve on City Council and have enjoyed working with the Mayor, Council and City Staff. For several years I have been elected as Secretary of the Exchange Club and I served on the Parks and Recreation Committee where we helped build new parks and new courts. I have been married to Tracy for 40+ years and we share one accomplished son, three lively grandchildren and one surly cat.
When did you move to Folly Beach and what drew you to the community?
Back in the 1960s, I remember driving over the old bridge to Folly Beach and seeing the ocean in front of me and the ferris wheel on the left. As a child, I learned to swim just off the beach where the Tides Hotel is now. Dad threw me in with the “sink or swim” method. Obviously, I floated and since that moment, I dreamed to live in this community. My wife and I saved and sacrificed to make our dream come true 17 years ago with the intent to stay forever. I love the people, the funky vibe, the beautiful environment, the arts and of course…the beach. This community has shown us love, compassion and a welcoming southern charm mixed with humor, a great quality of life and a healthy lifestyle that is the best anywhere in the world. I enjoy being an active member of the community working Toby the Turtle Beach Sweeps, Civic Club Cookouts, Calendar Sales, Red Cross Blood Drives, Halloween Carnivals, Christmas Parades, Fam Camps, Flags for Veterans, Yard Sales, Pickleball Tournaments, Surfers Healing, Warrior Surf, Take a Kid Fishing and many more community activities.
What do you feel are the most important issues Folly is facing?
Our community needs balance and recognition of common ground. Recent events have divided people and if elected, I will continue to provide a balanced and collaborative approach for residents. Many residents have come with ideas and solutions. I’m here to listen. Some suggestions are to prepare for sea level rise and flooding. We are in the planning stages with Dr.Elko, which I’ve sat on panels to discuss. I took action with planting more trees and providing funding for beach renourishment. Infrastructure improvements are currently in the works with council for parking, water, sewer, drainage and walkways.
Safety is vital. The Charleston area population has exploded. Our city needs to be better prepared for the influx of visitors. Speed containment devices are needed as well as additional officers and equipment. I’ve advocated for safety solutions to ensure our homes and families are secure.
In order to pay for these items, we need to continue to provide a strong financial stance. Folly Beach’s finances have been stronger than ever through thoughtful budgeting and expense management. I have effective relationships with the city’s financial officer and staff to prioritize resources and be transparent. We need to emphasize keeping residents’ taxes fair and economically applied.
Where do you stand on the short-term rental issue and what is the best way to move forward now that the referendum has passed?
Most residents believe council passed one of the most effective ordinances to control short term rental issues when it approved the creation of a Short-Term Rental Compliance Team. With Stacee’s leadership, much needed data and enforcement has been achieved. Recently, council approved a new software program that avoids manual collection of data and gives our team a good handle on the bad actors of rental issues. I visit their department often to see the progress and listen to their needs.
Many residents have requested a method of a waiting list, a way residents can be first in line, a way to pass inheritance to their heirs, a better STR zoning of business and residential areas combined with a better approach to multi-family housing. Discussing these issues in council would help preserve our residential areas and allow an open dialogue to make the referendum more appeasable to everyone.
Why did you decide to run for re-election?
I decided to run for re-election because I believe in my Folly Beach neighbors. As a council representative, I listen to what the residents want and from that, provide a positive impact for our town. I enjoy working with the city staff and residents to sustain a positive coastal lifestyle that attracts full time residents and is welcoming. I strive to be a leader for managed growth, balance and proper enforcement to cultivate a safe, livable environment. I also want to make sure our city finances are stable and secure, that our future is well planned and funded.
Working together we can find common ground that strengthens the fabric of our community.
I respectfully ask for your vote for re-election on Nov 7.
Ann Peets — City Council Candidate
Hometown: Springtown, New Jersey, a small rural town on the border of Pennsylvania
Professional background:
My college degree in the sciences from Wellesley College and MBA in General Management from UNC in Chapel Hill paved the way for a meaningful career in healthcare leading global pharmaceutical and medical device brands. By working on getting these products to the patients who need them, I am proud to have contributed to the healthcare of millions of families.
Many of my business skills are immediately transferable: leading cross-functional teams, gathering insights, setting strategy, handling multi-million dollar budgets, problem-solving all day – every day, and negotiating with multiple parties to arrive at the strongest solutions. Most importantly, I am accustomed to delivering results every day and every week for the businesses I lead and I would do the same on your behalf.
When did you move to Folly Beach and what drew you to the community?
A decade ago, I moved to Charleston to work in healthcare management for a small company situated on King Street. The allure of Charleston’s unique charm and the proximity of its captivating beaches captured my heart. I came to Folly often and fell in love with this funky beach town. Purchasing my house on Folly Beach in 2015 as a full-time resident was the realization of a lifelong dream.
The diverse Folly Beach community, spanning various age groups and backgrounds, is welcoming and wonderful, and the sense of community is a beautiful, unique thing. That’s why I live here full-time and have a passion for helping build a bright future for our community.
What do you feel are the most important issues Folly is facing?
I’ve found the strongest leadership in business comes from deep knowledge and insights shared directly from your customers – not knee-jerk reactions to just the few loudest voices. So, naturally, I turned immediately to our Community of Residents to ask them where the City of Folly Beach should focus now.
We just recently completed a Folly Resident Survey with a high response level. So, where should we focus next as a City and City Council over the next 4 years? Folly Residents are pointing the way by saying overwhelmingly …
Come Back Together as a Community and … focus on these three areas:
1. Enhance General Livability — 62 percent of Residents want to address: flooding, septic, environmental issues, parking, trash, enforcement, and improving upon the activities so many residents enjoy.
2. A Safer Community — 61 percent of Residents want to work on: Pedestrian safety, speeding, parking, biking, traffic flow, enforcement, and overall safety.
3. Workforce Housing Initiative — 50 percent of Residents want to: Create Long Term housing solutions for renters and city employees.
Where do you stand on the short-term rental issue and what is the best way to move forward now that the referendum has passed?
I am committed to supporting initiatives that protect our community and support livability. The ISTR CAP passed in February was an important step to balance residents and renters on Folly Beach. The ordinance does not eliminate ISTRs. Instead, these rules lead us toward a balanced, sustainable community.
It’s been 6 months since Folly residents voted to limit Investment Short-Term Rentals to 800. The City of Folly Beach provided updated STR/LTR license data in September 2023:
• Total Short-Term Rentals: 1,114 (down from 1,188)
• Investment Short-Term Rentals: 968 (down significantly from 1,021 to 968)
• Owner Short-Term Rentals: (Not capped): 146
The increase in long-term rental licenses (uncapped) is great news for island employees seeking more housing options on Folly. Enforcement and better management are starting to show positive impact; however, residents clearly call for continued better City enforcement and compliance with short-term rental regulations.
Inheritance Issues: I know there are still some concerns related to inheritance. I understand and commit to listen to residents to seek out workable solutions, while considering logistics and challenges for the City of Folly Beach as well. I hope to bring residents together to discuss and ideate potential solutions to this issue and feel this would help heal the division and allow us to move forward as a community.
Why did you decide to run for council?
As a full-time Folly Resident, I am running for City Council as your inclusive Folly Resident Advocate. That means, I stand with and for Folly Residents, who vote in the members of City Council to represent them. My agenda is the Residents’ agenda. Many of my business skills are valuable for representing residents well in City Council: listening to issues and ideas, uncovering the facts, transparency, leading discussions, clear communications, politely challenging, problem solving, and negotiating for mutual wins.
Said simply, I’m an inclusive person who loves the Folly community and who will work hard to deliver Results for Residents.
Vote Ann Petes for results for residents: Maintain Balance. Build Community. Enhance Livability.
Keep Folly Funky, Friendly, Family & Livable! I’d be honored to have your vote on Nov. 7.
Jeannette Perna — City Council Candidate
Hometown: Summerville, SC
Professional background:
I have been in the banking industry for 24 years primarily focused on small business lending. I am a Senior Vice President and Director of Business Lending for a midsize regional bank. In my role, I spend significant time on strategic initiatives, budgeting, project management, collaboration and problem solving across the organization. This experience demonstrates my ability to bring effective leadership to City Council.
When did you move to Folly Beach and what drew you to the community?
My love of Folly began as a child growing up in the Charleston area and playing on the beach during weekends and summers. My mom grew up on James Island, and spent her teenage years hangin’ at the Pier. Her cousin was Julian Bunch, who served as Folly Beach Police Chief and my grandmother was a member of Folly Beach Baptist Church. My uncle lived on Peas Island and my cousins and I would run around tromping through the marsh and pluff mud. Eventually, my dream came true and we purchased a home on Folly in 2015 and moved our family from James Island in 2020. My husband has worked and volunteered on the Island for 15 years. We feel blessed that our children get to experience living on Folly, and they love working in our local businesses. We are so fortunate to be a part of this community!
What do you feel are the most important issues Folly is facing?
Erosion and rising water continue to be the biggest issues facing Folly Beach. Other critical issues include pedestrian and traffic safety, addressing unintended impacts of the STR referendum and ensuring city services can adequately support the needs of our community. In addition, I commit to listening to what issues are important to you so that I can represent them to the best of my abilities.
Where do you stand on the short-term rental issue and what is the best way to move forward now that the referendum has passed?
I believe City Councils’ ordinance improving enforcement was the right approach in addressing nuisance properties, parking issues, and property management responsibilities. I live here, too, and witness the challenges of Folly Beach growing more popular with vacationers coupled with the growth of the Charleston area. I don’t believe enough research and independent study was done to properly evaluate solutions that benefit the entire community. Solutions for some should not disenfranchise others.
Why did you decide to run for council?
My vision for Folly Beach is one of balance and responsible governance. I believe in balanced informed decision-making, community involvement, transparency and I am dedicated to applying these principles to every decision I make as a City Council member.
If elected, my priorities for Folly Beach include:
• Enhancing community safety
• Promoting transparent governance and Informative Leadership
• Fostering economic well-being while preserving our city’s unique charm.
I am passionate about engaging with our residents to better understand their needs and concerns. I am dedicated to ensuring that every voice is heard and considered in the decisions that affect our city. I am enthusiastic about the opportunity to serve our wonderful community as a City Council member. With your support, we can work together to create a city that we are all proud to call home. I look forward to the journey ahead and the positive impact we can have together.
Amy Ray— City Council Candidate (former councilmember)
Hometown: Columbia, S.C.
Professional background:
Mom (2008-forever); City Council (2018-2022); Mayor Pro-tem (2020-2022); Civic Club President (2022-present)
When did you move to Folly Beach and what drew you to the community?
Growing up in Columbia, SC, and a graduate of The College of Charleston, I have spent many years on Folly throughout high school and college and lived on Folly after college. Spending time on Folly in my younger years, I have always loved and appreciated its character and low-key vibe.
In 2009, my husband and I decided to return to Folly and raise our three kids; this is when I felt the heart of this community and knew I eventually wanted to be involved. Watching my kids grow up on Folly and in the Lowcountry has been truly magical.
What do you feel are the most important issues Folly is facing?
I think we have several issues that are equally important. Protecting our natural resources is something we can’t take for granted. The coastline, waterways, marsh and marsh islands, bird sanctuaries, dunes, turtles, beach walkovers, litter all need constant assessment. We all know how quickly things change out here. Planning and anticipating these changes with the right leaders, resources, experts and communication puts Folly in a proactive position, where there are always options.
Safety and Parking are intertwined issues. In my mind there is never enough safety (pedestrian, golf cart, walking, exercising, driving etc.) or proper (safe) parking. Careful use of our rights-of-way can protect residents, workers, and visitors alike. Strides have been made (with a few steps backwards) with safety and parking, however, it is far from complete and deserves our total attention, conversation and collaboration.
Where do you stand on the short-term rental issue and what is the best way to move forward now that the referendum has passed?
I appreciate you asking what is the best way to move forward because this is exactly what our community needs to focus on. Ultimately the short-term rental issue comes down to how to find balance for everyone. I do think we can improve the referendum outcome so that it serves all residents in a way that protects legacy and creates opportunities for new families, long-term renters, and those who want to call Folly home when they retire. The best way to move forward is to put strong leaders in place who are ready to consider and collaborate on the consequences of our actions, what is the most reasonable way to move forward and how to maintain Folly while recognizing and preparing for inevitable change. There should be many seats at this discussion table including residents, city leaders, staff, planning commissioners, local business owners – basically all who make up the foundation of this community.
Why did you decide to run for council/re-election?
I did not anticipate running for council so soon after serving from 2018-2022. I care about this island and preserving this community. I want to keep what we all know and love about this place—why we choose to live here and also keep us on the path so that our children, grandchildren, day trippers, vacationers have the opportunity to live, work and play here. We need leadership with an open mind and willingness to put in the hard work to question and learn about the issues (both old and new). I have the experience, track record and enthusiasm to bring this kind of leadership to the table each and every time. I would be honored to have your vote on Nov. 7.
Jody Lynn Rogers — City Council Candidate
Hometown: Folly Beach; originally grew up in Peru, Indiana.
Professional background:
I have over 30 years of experience leading supply chains for manufacturing companies. I helped start a company that brought over 300 jobs to the Charleston area. As Senior Director of a global supply chain, I have achieved transformational results by leading people with seemingly conflicting goals to achieve consensus. I’m a collaborative consensus builder, have strong problem-solving skills and am prepared and organized. On council I would leverage my leadership skills and experience in strategic planning, risk mitigation and working with government agencies to expedite traffic safety improvements. I would apply all these skills to passionately advocate for what I believe is best for the community.
When did you move to Folly Beach and what drew you to the community?
We moved to Folly Beach nearly ten years ago. My husband and I recognized Folly’s funky vibe, limited high-rise condominiums, plentiful restaurants and unpretentious neighborhoods made this beach community special. We made Folly Beach our home because we wanted to live where people enjoy visiting and neighbors look out for each other.
What do you feel are the most important issues Folly is facing?
1. Restoring the neighborly spirit of Folly’s community. The short-term rental cap is still one of the most divisive issues we face. There are many statutes that are undefined, causing financial and emotional turmoil for many residents and property owners. To date, City Council has not passed fair amendments to the ordinance that has had such a negative impact on residents and property owners, like transferability and the mechanics of a wait list. In September’s council meeting, it was confirmed that if an ISTR property owner gets married and wants to add the spouse to the deed, they would lose their ISTR license. That is grossly unfair.
2. Safety and infrastructure. City Council is doing a good job of planning for redundant water systems and beach re-nourishment. The Arctic Avenue project and the next phase of walking paths planned will make needed safety improvements. But the walking/biking paths don’t extend far enough. Parking on both sides of Ashley Avenue, as mandated by the state, has increased the risk that someone will get hurt or killed. We need to expedite walking paths on Ashley Avenue that will connect to the Arctic Avenue paths.
Where do you stand on the short-term rental issue and what is the best way to move forward now that the referendum has passed?
The STR cap that passed by slightly more than half of residents has divided this community. Since the vote, about half the island’s residents, and even more property owners, feel resentment about the impact of this ordinance on their retirement and inheritance plans. It has stagnated home sales and hasn’t resulted in more long-term, affordable housing availability.
The STR committee, appointed by the mayor, made a proposal that sought to fairly balance rentals vs. concerns of residents, the impacts on the community of regulating rentals and managing growth. The referendum, and resulting ordinance, disregards much of what the committee proposed. The ordinance, as passed, left a lot of grey areas and unanswered questions.
On council I want to pass amendments that are fair to all while supporting nuisance ordinance enforcement.
• I hope to help restore the neighborly spirit of Folly’s community.
• Reintroduce the amendments allowing licenses to be renewed for those disenfranchised due to timing of ordinance
• Allow heirs to obtain or inherit existing STR licenses
• Afford pre-ordinance property owners the opportunity to sell or transfer their home with a one-time waiver from the cap for new homeowners.
Why did you decide to run for council?
We bought property on Folly 10 years ago. We built bigger than we needed so that family and friends from afar would gather here, and they do. Our intention was that after we passed, our family would continue to gather here. But our beneficiaries wouldn’t be able to move to Folly for many years, if at all.
We also knew that life circumstances could change. At some point we may want, or need, to move away temporarily and the option to rent our house was always part of our contingency plans. The STR cap disrupted our plans. Even worse, now that the ordinance has passed, potential buyers for our home have drastically decreased and property values are substantially declining.
Our story is just one of many of people disaffected by the cap. Many families’ lives and plans have been disrupted far worse than ours. As I watched City Council decline to pass amendments that were fair to those who lost ISTR licenses due to late filing or timing of COO, I decided we needed more empathetic council members. I want to be a voice on council that is fair, kind and inclusive to all who visit and call Folly home.
