Get to Know Hilton Head Island

I recently spoke to a newcomer to Hilton Head Island, and she shared with me that there was no comprehensive guide for people like her that outlined all the information new Hilton Head Islanders should know. As you settle into the community, you find out bits and pieces of information you wish you had when you first moved to the island. Obviously, when you move into your new home, you will sign up for electrical service, water and sewer service, and insurance coverage. Those are steps I’m sure your real estate agent, landlord or property owners association covers with you.

While I don’t have a comprehensive guide or list, I want to share some things newcomers should know and do as they become acclimated to the island. These are tips that will help you learn about the town, be informed about town services and operations, and provide some useful tools.

• Find out who your elected representative is on our town council. Along with myself, there are six council members who represent the island’s six wards. Come to a town council meeting as well as other committees and board meetings. You can learn a lot about projects and issues we are focused on such as short-term rentals and workforce housing. The contact information for council members is listed on our website at hiltonheadislandsc.gov. If you have a concern about any issues or suggestions, I encourage you to reach out to your elected representative.
• Register to vote in Beaufort County, S.C. This is necessary so you can participate in any local elections. The Beaufort County Board of Elections and Voter Registration is responsible for providing citizens with voter identification cards that will have information about wards, voting precincts and polling locations.
• Get a decal for the trash dump. Our town information specialists receive calls often about recycling and using the trash dump. Beaufort County operates our “Convenience Center” at 26 Summit Drive and requires you to have a car decal to drop off your trash. Visit the county’s website at beaufortcountysc.gov/solid-waste-and-recycle/convenience-centers.
• Explore our town website at hiltonheadislandsc.gov. This is our hub of information for residents and visitors. You can find out about town services, upcoming town meetings, our strategic action plan, emergency preparedness, beach regulations, beach and recreational parks, the environment and more. Are you familiar with or prepared for the 2022 hurricane season? Check out the information on our hurricane center page so you are ready to deal with any major storm that may arise between now and November 30, the end of hurricane season. And if you really want to be in the know about our town, e-subscribe to receive news and notices. On our website homepage, click the “Subscribe” tab in the upper right corner and provide your email address. Check the topics that matter to you, and you will start receiving related information.
• Explore CultureHHI.org. CultureHHI is the best local site for arts, culture, and event information. Our Office of Cultural Affairs keeps tabs on activities for all to enjoy. You can find out about artists, organizations, local history, and island historical sites on the CultureHHI website and Facebook and Instagram pages.
• Download the MyHHI app on your mobile device. MyHHI gives users an easy tool to report non-emergency issues like potholes, pathway damage, beach violations, blocked storm drains and dead animals to the town from their smartphones, tablets, and computers, thanks to the town’s partnership with SeeClickFix, a citizen engagement platform. Our staff will work to address those issues. Users can access information about parks, beaches, cultural happenings, and other topics. The app is free and is available for download from the Google Play and the Apple Store. Once you download the app, you will be prompted to create an account to submit service requests.
• Stay connected with us. Finally, follow our town social media channels: Facebook, LinkedIn, Next Door, Instagram and CultureHHI. Our Town Communications Department shares a wealth information on town programs, services, the environment and more through social media.