The Town of Hilton Head Island was incorporated as a municipality in 1983 and has jurisdiction over the entire island except for Mariner’s Cove, Blue Heron Point, and Windmill Harbor. Hilton Head Island’s government is run by a Council-Manager system.

The Town Manager is the chief executive officer and head of the administrative branch, and he or she is accountable to the municipal council for the appropriate management of all of the town’s business. All powers not assigned to the Town Manager are exercised by the Town Council. As a member of the Town Council, the Mayor has the same authorities, responsibilities, and abilities.

In addition, the Mayor sets the agenda for Town Council sessions, summons special meetings, executes contracts, deeds, resolutions, and proclamations that are not delegated to the Town Manager, and represents the town at ceremonial ceremonies.

Building and Fire Codes, Business License, Code Enforcement, Finance, Fire & Rescue, Human Resources, Legal, Municipal Court, Planning, and Public Projects & Facilities are some of the town departments.

The General Fund, the Capital Projects Fund, and the Debt Service Fund are the three independent fiscal accounting funds. The General Fund is the town’s operating fund, and it holds all of the town’s financial assets save the Capital Projects Fund and the Debt Service Fund. The Capital Projects Fund is used to purchase property and repair public infrastructures, such as roads, bike lanes, fire stations, vehicle replacement, drainage improvements, and park development. The Debt Service Fund keeps track of the resources that have been accumulated as well as the debts that have been paid.

Towns and Communities

Incorporated as a municipality in 1983, the Town of Hilton Head Island is well renowned for its “eco-friendly” development. Our municipal government has a long history of being one of the most progressive in the region. The town is financially stable, with low taxes, a robust capital investment program, environmental preservation, and award-winning park design. Our personnel are happy to serve the residents and tourists of Hilton Head Island, and they are always looking for ways to improve their services. To that end, the Town is dedicated to hiring and keeping personnel who share our aims and values and who will deliver exceptional customer service. Those who choose a job with the Town may expect attractive compensation, continued training to further their careers, and a complete benefits package.