New Candidates Hint at Change for Hilton Head Town Council
It’s that exciting time again in Hilton Head, where election season is upon us, bringing the potential for new faces on the Town Council. With elections approaching, candidates from Wards 1, 3, and 6 are stepping up, each aiming to represent their community starting in January 2025. While those from Wards 2, 4, and 5 will continue until December 2026, the spotlight is certainly on the newcomers.
Spotlight on Candidates
In Ward 6, three distinct candidates are vying for the position. Each one brings a unique background and perspective that could shape the future of Hilton Head. Let’s take a closer look.
Melinda Tunner
Melinda Tunner comes with over 30 years of experience in finance, primarily with Allstate Insurance. Having moved to Hilton Head a decade ago, Melinda quickly engaged in community service by serving as a poll manager and advocating for a local precinct in her neighborhood, Palmetto Hall. Her financial background, combined with roles on the Palmetto Hall Owners Association Board and her volunteer work with the “Women Within” empowerment group, contributes to her passion for public service.
Paige Cope
Next up is Paige Cope, a sixth-generation Lowcountry native who has spent most of her life on the island. Prior to her candidacy, Paige was immersed in the spa industry, serving as the director at Omni Hotel’s spa for nine years. Her deep understanding of the local culture and communities could play a vital role in advocating for the needs of Hilton Head residents.
Rex Garniewicz
Then we have Rex Garniewicz, the current president and CEO of the Coastal Discovery Museum. With a doctorate in anthropology and experience overseeing nonprofit operations, he brings a blend of environmental awareness and leadership to his candidacy. Rex has spent over a decade on the island, mulling over ways to improve its infrastructure while maintaining its charm.
Key Concerns and Positions
The trio recently provided responses to pressing issues impacting their communities, including workforce and affordable housing, safety, and the controversial penny sales tax on the ballot.
Workforce and Affordable Housing
Melinda Tunner emphasizes collaboration as vital, advocating for a mix of strategies such as adaptive reuse of commercial buildings and establishing public-private partnerships to tackle workforce housing. Paige Cope adds an interesting perspective, suggesting that educating the community on removing the stigma surrounding workforce housing is crucial. Meanwhile, Rex Garniewicz advocates for practical private investment alongside municipal support, underscoring the importance of fostering community development.
Community Safety
All candidates agree that Hilton Head is fundamentally safe, though they highlight the need for improvements. Melinda Tunner points to a drop in crime rates and a rising concern about speeding vehicles. Paige Cope echoes this sentiment while advocating for community vigilance and neighborhood watch. Meanwhile, Rex Garniewicz notes the outstanding emergency response times and suggests strengthening relationships with local law enforcement.
On the Ballot: Penny Sales Tax
The penny sales tax has become a hot topic in the upcoming election. Melinda Tunner opposes it, citing transparency issues in Beaufort County’s management methods. Paige Cope is on the same page, expressing her opposition to the tax. Conversely, Rex Garniewicz sees it as an opportunity for the town to enhance infrastructure while allowing visitors to contribute their fair share, which he argues could benefit local projects significantly.
The 278 Corridor Project
The candidates also weighed in on the U.S. 278 Corridor Project. While Melinda Tunner supports replacing the aging bridges, she’s cautious about design components. Paige Cope sees the current proposal as unnecessary, pushing for alternative solutions to traffic issues. Conversely, Rex Garniewicz highlights safety and traffic control, advocating for the project while ensuring community needs are met.
Transparency and Community Involvement
When it comes to transparency and communication, all candidates commit to being open and accessible. Melinda Tunner, Paige Cope, and Rex Garniewicz all express the need for dialogue with constituents. They aim to maintain public trust through clarity in decision-making and to listen to resident feedback, which can greatly influence council discussions.
Final Thoughts
As the election season rolls on, Hilton Head’s residents can look forward to a variety of viewpoints and values represented at the council. The upcoming elections hold the promise of new ideas and continued progress for this lovely island community.
