As we begin our new fiscal year on July 1, I’m proud to announce that the Town of Hilton Head Island is moving forward with a $233 million budget, approved by town council with no increase to the millage rate. This balanced budget is more than just numbers on a page: It is a roadmap that reflects our priorities laid out in our 2026-2028 Strategic Action Plan and 2020 Comprehensive Plan. It builds on our commitment to keep Hilton Head Island vibrant, resilient, and welcoming for all.
This year, we’re focusing on protecting the island’s unique character, managing growth, enhancing our corridors, investing in stormwater infrastructure, supporting public safety, and advancing economic development. We’re also championing workforce housing, celebrating Gullah Geechee culture, and protecting our natural environment.
The FY 2027 consolidated budget totals $233,284,719 and covers all projected revenues and planned expenses. Our funding comes from a diverse mix of sources, including hospitality and accommodations taxes, beach preservation fees, business licenses, stormwater and real estate transfer fees, and property taxes.
Highlights include more than $55 million for capital improvements such as upgrades to Islanders Beach Park, Crossings Park (pickleball, skate park and pump track), and Patterson Family Park; Jonesville stables renovation, road and safety improvements; new fire rescue ladder trucks; and planning for future land acquisition. We’re continuing to invest in stormwater resilience, with $7.5 million to accelerate critical infrastructure projects and complete our Stormwater Master Plan.
We’re also supporting our Gullah Geechee neighborhoods with nearly $1.7 million for preservation and economic development, and more than $3.2 million to advance workforce housing and neighborhood stabilization. The budget includes more than $86 million in special revenues to support capital projects, housing, and operations, along with $11.5 million to maintain our strong credit and reduce debt.
Beyond infrastructure, we’re investing $2.4 million in people and experiences – funding community events, enhancing public safety, and supporting nonprofit partners including the Island Recreation Association, Coastal Discovery Museum, Mitchelville Preservation Project, the Lowcountry Regional Transportation Authority (Palmetto Breeze), the Beaufort County Economic Development Corporation, Sea Turtle Patrol HHI, and the Outside Foundation.
Our budget, our vision for the island, the enhancements we have planned, and our relationship with various nonprofits wouldn’t be possible without the hard work of our town staff. So, I want to thank Town Manager Marc Orlando and his team for their diligent stewardship in preparing our budget to meet the needs of our community.
I encourage everyone to explore our budget in detail at hiltonheadislandsc.gov to learn about the many enhancements that will be invested into our community over the next 12 months. Together, we are laying the groundwork for a thriving and sustainable Hilton Head Island.