A Top Priority: Long-Term Housing

The erosion of and shortage of long-term rentals on Folly Beach presents a significant challenge due to limited land and a shift towards short-term rentals.  Engaging with some of Folly’s long-term renters, some of whom have been part of the community for over a decade (some even 25+ years!) reveals their unique stories and contributions across various professions, enriching the fabric of Folly. Many are Folly’s Food & Beverage staff, business owners, teachers, artists, volunteers, city workers, flight attendants, filmmakers, and more, and they are being pushed off the island.

I have also extensively researched how over a dozen similar markets nationwide have tackled this challenge with innovative solutions. As your councilman, I commit to address long-term housing and would propose exploring creative ideas such as:

• Advocate for an "Innovative Housing Initiative" (& committee) to study & develop solutions tailored for Folly.

• Incentivizing property owners through creative solutions.

• Explore the City acquiring property & existing structures for long-term housing.

• Facilitating public-private partnerships for long-term rental projects.

• Pursuing government and philanthropic grants and bonds for funding.

• Propose that some of the incentives are passed down as savings to the renter to support affordability.

• Monitoring LTR upkeep standards.

This issue is a top priority for me, reflecting my commitment and passion to serve on Folly Beach council.