Big changes on the horizon

We live in one of the most beautiful and unique places on earth—a paradise that many of us are proud to call home. But even paradise isn’t immune to change. Our beloved corner of the Lowcountry is experiencing growth and development at an unprecedented pace. From rising population numbers and infrastructure demands to environmental concerns and the evolving needs of diverse communities, the decisions we make today will echo for decades to come.

Join the conversation
By collaborating with neighbors, local organizations, businesses, and government leaders, we can ensure that our region continues to thrive while staying true to its character. The Greater Island Council of Hilton Head Island and Bluffton (GIC) is committed to fostering discussions and advocating for quality-of-life outcomes. We invite you join us, attend our monthly speaker meetings, share your thoughts, and participate in one of our committees. Whether you’ve lived here your entire life or just moved to the area, your perspective is vital.

Our members are participating in the discussions and looking for solutions for affordable childcare, coordinated regional planning, answers for the next level of recycling and solid waste disposal and the future of our parks.

But these are just starting points. You may see other priorities that deserve attention, and your insights could shed light on issues we haven’t yet considered.

• Development: How do we balance economic growth with the preservation of our natural beauty and cultural heritage?
• Arts & culture: How do we grow environmentally sustainable industries like the arts, culture and historical sites which improve our quality of life.
• Infrastructure: Are our roads, bridges, and public services prepared to handle increasing demands?
• Housing: How do we address affordability and accessibility while maintaining the character of our neighborhoods?
• Environment: What steps should we take to protect our waterways, marshlands, and wildlife from the impacts of climate change and overdevelopment?
• Schools: How can we ensure that our schools and institutions are equipped to prepare future generations for success?

What matters most to you
We want to know what you think are the most pressing issues that will define our shared future? What steps should we, as a community, take to preserve what makes our home so unique while preparing for the changes ahead?

The Greater Island Council of Hilton Head Island and Bluffton, a non-partisan, citizen-led organization, is dedicated to advocating for initiatives and policies that shape the quality of life in our region. We believe that listening to the voices of our neighbors is the first step in creating proactive, effective solutions. That’s why we’re asking you to join the conversation. Let’s work together to ensure that the next decade is one of smart, sustainable, and inclusive growth for Beaufort and Jasper counties.

Share your thoughts with us at GreaterIslandCouncil.com/contact-us.

Ray Warco is the Board Chair of the Greater Island Council of Hilton Head Island and Bluffton.