Town of Bluffton issues Resident Resource Guide to clarify government roles and services

The Town of Bluffton recently published its first-ever Resident Resource Guide, a 24-page publication designed to help residents better understand how the Town functions, what services it provides, and how various government agencies work together to serve the region.

The guide was mailed to each town resident in late June, and the digital edition is available on the Town website by searching “Resident Resource Guide” on the Town’s website: www.townofbluffton.sc.gov.

Developed in response to a recent Town community survey, the guide addresses feedback from residents, especially those who have relocated from other states, about the need to clarify government roles, services, operations and legal parameters.

“It is human nature for new residents to compare their current government operations and experiences to their previous hometowns,” Town Manager Stephen Steese said. “However, each government is different in structure, operations and services.

This guide is designed to serve as a clear, go-to resource to help navigate local, county, and state responsibilities and help our residents quickly find the information they need.”

The Resident Resource Guide is designed to be evergreen, meaning most of its content is not time-sensitive and remains relevant year-round. To ensure long-term usability, the guide does not include staff names, contact information that frequently changes, or specific dates.

Topics covered include growth management, infrastructure, stormwater services, road maintenance, police services, annexation, historic preservation, development guidelines, and more.
Residents are encouraged to read the guide—or at least keep it accessible for future reference.

Additional copies are available at Town Hall (20 Bridge St.), the Bluffton Welcome Center at the Squire Pope Carriage House (111 Calhoun St.), or by request.

Residents may also request a “Mobile Town Hall” presentation for their neighborhood, homeowners’ association or civic group by contacting Public Information Officer Debbie Szpanka at dszpanka@townofbluffton.com.

“This guide is also helpful for those with a Bluffton mailing address who live outside the town limits,” Steese said. “When people understand which agency is responsible for which services, it makes it easier for everyone to get the answers they need and be more informed citizens.

It’s not unusual for people who live outside the town limits to show up at the polls and wonder why they can’t vote for the mayor or town council members. We hope this guide helps the entire region gain a clearer understanding of how local governments function.”