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Town News This Week - July 11, 2025 |
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The Town of Hilton Head Island’s beach renourishment project is scheduled to start on Aug. 6, at Fish Haul Beach, off Mitchelville Road on the Island’s north end.
This vital project, which happens every eight to 10 years, involves replacing sand along sections of the shoreline that have been lost over time to natural erosion and storm activity. As part of the construction activities and to ensure the public’s safety, Fish Haul Beach Park (120 Mitchelville Road) will be closed for approximately five days starting Aug. 6, weather permitting.
Watch this quick video to learn more about the project and how it helps protect our beaches and wildlife.
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Local entrepreneurs are invited to participate in an engaging seminar series designed to help them develop and sustain their small businesses. Each session will feature expert-led discussions on key topics such as fraud prevention, funding opportunities, legal and tax considerations, and procurement strategies.
Sponsored for the second year by the Gullah Geechee Historic Neighborhoods Community Development Corporation (CDC) and TD Bank, the “Money Talks” series will offer valuable insights and practical advice for business entrepreneurs. The five-part series kicks off Tuesday, July 22, with a session on fraud awareness. Each session will take place from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at the Hilton Head Island Recreation Center, 20 Wilborn Road, and will continue monthly through November.
Participants are welcome to attend all five sessions or only the ones relevant to their specific needs. There is no charge to attend. For more information, call 843-816-8554.
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 July is Park & Recreation Month, and we’re celebrating by spotlighting some of the incredible features that make our parks more accessible, inclusive, and enjoyable for everyone.
Did you know the Rowing and Sailing Center at Squire Pope Community Park includes an ADA E-Z Launch Transfer System? This thoughtful feature makes it safer and easier for individuals of all abilities to get in and out of kayaks—just one of the many ways the Town is working to ensure everyone can experience the joy of our public spaces.
While you’re there, don’t miss the striking mural that tells the story of how Hilton Head Islanders united to stop the construction of a plant that would have threatened our local environment—a powerful reminder of our community’s dedication to preserving this special place.
From scenic water access to cultural storytelling, this park—and many others across Hilton Head Island—offers something for everyone. Be sure to include a park visit in your plans this summer. Explore all our parks and their amenities here.
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Hilton Head Island Fire Rescue has been awarded the American Heart Association’s Mission: Lifeline® EMS Gold Achievement Award, recognizing their exceptional commitment to delivering fast, research-driven care to those suffering from the most severe heart attacks and strokes.
In 2024, the department achieved a 70% cardiac arrest survival rate, a remarkable accomplishment compared to the national average of just 26%. This outstanding performance led to 7 lives saved from cardiac arrest in a single year.
The Mission: Lifeline EMS program honors emergency medical services that consistently follow nationally recognized, evidence-based guidelines for treating ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction (STEMI) and other time-sensitive cardiac and stroke emergencies.
We are extremely proud of Hilton Head Island Fire Rescue for their lifesaving efforts, exceptional care, and unwavering dedication to protecting our community every day.
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Lee grew up on Hilton Head Island, where he was raised in the Gullah Geechee community along Marshland Road. The traditions of his ancestors passed down through five generations — horseback riding, fishing and crabbing, family gatherings, community support and more — shaped not only his identity but also his purpose. Those roots now guide him in his role as Captain of Community Outreach & Recruitment for Hilton Head Island Fire Rescue.
Every day, Lee draws on his heritage to connect the community. Whether he’s mentoring students, speaking to local groups, representing Fire Rescue at job fairs, or coordinating a camp that introduces young girls to careers in fire service, Lee leads with passion and pride. His work is more than a job — it’s a calling to inspire, educate, and unify. “My culture and my role with the Town go hand in hand,” Lee said. “Together, they give me the opportunity to showcase the Island’s rich culture and natural beauty while helping move the Town’s goals forward.”
Years of service with the Town: 19
Most rewarding part of my job: Bringing awareness of Fire Rescue to our community and awareness of our community to Fire Rescue.
My most memorable “Island-only” experience: Growing up as a self-proclaimed country boy, riding horses on the beaches of Hilton Head Island was amazing. I especially treasured the day I rode my horse in the Marsh Tacky races on the beach. What a unique and unforgettable experience. I felt like I was honoring the legacy of my ancestors, my family, and generations of native Islanders.
My favorite spot on Hilton Head Island: My family’s land. I will always remember sitting under the pecan tree on the land my family has resided on for the past five generations. Under that tree with me is my grandmother, her siblings, my mother, my siblings, all harvesting the fresh catch of the day - local shrimp, whiting fish, and blue crabs - as we smell the aroma of seafood being cooked and look forward to eating.
Favorite quote: “What goes around, comes around.”
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From beach rules and park amenities to local attractions and parking info, our beach ambassadors Layla Esquivel and Harper Yellon have the scoop. You’ll likely spot these two friendly faces at our Island beach parks, ready to help with your beach-related questions.
Layla recently graduated from Hilton Head Preparatory School, and Harper is a rising senior there. As part of our beach operations team, they serve as welcoming representatives of the Town and play a key role in creating a positive experience for beachgoers. They provide important information, educate the public on safe and sustainable beach practices, and encourage environmentally responsible behaviors—like proper waste disposal and protecting sea turtles and other coastal wildlife.
We’re proud to have these two outstanding young leaders supporting our beach operations this season!
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Monday, July 15
4 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Shelter Cove Community Park, 39 Shelter Cove Lane.
Celebrate and protect the Broad Creek at this free, family-friendly event! The Keep the Broad Creek Clean Water Festival features interactive nature displays, educational booths, games and activities with Island Rec, and a community litter sweep from 5–6 PM (supplies provided).
The Town of Hilton Head Island will have a tent and table at the event, showcasing ongoing efforts to protect Broad Creek, such as the LMO, buffer protections, and more. Come out to learn, participate and help keep Broad Creek clean!
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The BreezeTrolley has unveiled the Loggerhead Express, a vibrant new themed trolley offering seasonal public transportation throughout the summer. Designed by local artist Mira Scott, co-author of Myrtle the Loggerhead Turtle, the trolley features a colorful exterior with murals of loggerhead sea turtles and interior panels with poetry by local writers.
Catch the Loggerhead Express and other BreezeTrolleys daily from 1:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., with hours extended to 11:00 p.m. on Friday and Saturday nights, from March 29th through Labor Day (September 1st).
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We are proud to recognize Deputy Fire Chief Joheida Fister, who was recently featured in Pink Magazine. Joheida, alongside six other women, was spotlighted for her dedication and hard work towards serving her community.
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