Hilton Head Island, January 7, 2026
Hilton Head Island has formed a 21-member task force to guide future land use and development, highlighting the community’s commitment to sustainable growth. The initiative aims to revise the Land Management Ordinance to adapt to changing needs while preserving the island’s unique character. This diverse group includes stakeholders from various sectors, emphasizing a balanced approach to economic development and environmental stewardship.
Hilton Head Island’s Growth: A Community-Driven Path
A vital new task force, comprising 21 individuals, is set to shape the future of land use and development on Hilton Head Island, a move that underscores the community’s proactive approach to managing its unique character and fostering sustainable economic growth. This initiative comes as Town officials are revising the island’s Land Management Ordinance (LMO), a foundational document that dictates development, zoning, and aesthetic standards.
The formation of this diverse task force highlights Hilton Head’s commitment to thoughtful growth, recognizing that a balanced approach is essential for preserving the island’s natural beauty while supporting a vibrant local economy. For entrepreneurs and small businesses, the outcomes of this task force could mean either new opportunities or additional considerations for development, making their engagement and insights invaluable to the process.
Charting the Course for Hilton Head’s Future
The Town of Hilton Head Island is undertaking a significant effort to update its 12-year-old Land Management Ordinance, a key regulatory tool governing growth and protecting the island’s distinct character. This ordinance sets limits on the size, structure, aesthetics, and use of development, preventing, for example, the construction of a hotel in a residential neighborhood. Town officials indicate that a rewrite is necessary to adapt to evolving community needs and changing development patterns.
The formation of the Land Management Ordinance Task Force was approved by Town Council on September 16, 2025, to review proposed revisions to zoning and development codes and advise staff, the Planning Commission, and Council. This task force is an industry-standard method for gathering diverse expertise and public perspectives, aiming to reduce unintended consequences before code changes undergo formal hearings. Mayor Alan Perry expressed optimism that the new ordinance could be finalized by July 1, stating that while it may not satisfy everyone, it offers an opportunity to rectify past issues and forge a stronger future for the island.
A Diverse Group to Guide Development
The 21-member task force brings together a cross-section of stakeholders from the Hilton Head Island community. Its composition includes council members, committee chairs, industry representatives, community managers, and residents. Specifically, the task force includes three council appointees, chairpersons of the Planning Commission and Design Review Board, representatives from Gullah Geechee preservation groups, representatives from the Hilton Head-area Chamber of Commerce, home builders, and realtors. Additionally, it features three general managers from the island’s planned unit developments (PUDs), industry representatives covering short-term rentals, hospitality, and workforce housing, and five resident seats. The Town Manager and Deputy Manager will participate as non-voting ex-officio staff. This broad representation aims to ensure that a wide array of perspectives informs decisions that will shape the island’s landscape for years to come.
Addressing the “Behind Closed Doors” Dialogue
One aspect of the task force’s formation that has drawn attention is the selection process of its members, which occurred “behind closed doors” at a December 9 meeting. The task force includes four licensed real estate agents, despite only one seat being specifically reserved for a real estate industry representative. Similarly, while one seat is designated for a representative from the Hilton Head-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce, another board appointee also has ties to the Chamber. Supporters of a broad task force argue that wide representation enhances technical review, increases transparency, and helps build consensus, while critics suggest that a 21-member body could be unwieldy and potentially delay a process residents already perceive as extended. The Town Council and staff have been engaged in code amendments and specific changes to manage growth for several years, with many improvements already adopted.
The Economic Imperative: Balancing Growth and Character
Hilton Head Island’s economy, significantly bolstered by tourism, saw $2.8 billion in revenue from 2.8 million visitors in 2024, with 160 new businesses opening the same year. This strong economic performance indicates sustained demand and continued appreciation in property values. However, this growth also brings challenges, particularly concerning land use and the preservation of the island’s unique character.
Previous attempts to revise the land management policy, such as in 2014, aimed to reduce what officials called “overly bureaucratic” restrictions to encourage development. While some residents supported these changes, their outcomes, exemplified by areas like Bradley Circle, have faced criticism due to strained infrastructure, leading to issues like low water pressure, traffic congestion, and flooding from resort-style development. The task force’s mandate includes considering how to avoid “clear cutting” and the construction of “monstrosities” or additional large timeshares in inappropriate areas. It also explores repurposing commercial structures for future economic development.
Fostering Innovation and Small Business Resilience
The vibrancy of Hilton Head Island’s local economy is deeply rooted in its small businesses and entrepreneurial spirit. Organizations like the Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce and SCORE SC Lowcountry provide crucial support, offering networking, mentorship, business development programs, and advocacy for business-friendly legislation. The Town of Hilton Head Island also supports local enterprises through initiatives like the ATax Grant program, which aids cultural and heritage tourism-related activities that contribute to economic vitality.
Community economic development (CED) emphasizes local empowerment, encouraging entrepreneurship, and supporting small businesses to strengthen the economic foundation of communities. This approach can lead to economic resilience, diversifying local economies and reducing dependency on external factors. By actively involving residents in economic planning, the community can cultivate a sense of ownership and pride, leading to more tailored and effective economic strategies.
Looking Ahead: Community Engagement and Economic Growth
The new Land Management Ordinance Task Force represents a critical juncture for Hilton Head Island. The revisions to the LMO are expected to be a major driver for the island in 2026, with the aim of completion by July 1. This process is not just about regulations; it’s about shaping an environment where entrepreneurial innovation can thrive, small businesses can achieve resilience, and private investment can contribute to sustainable economic growth while honoring the island’s cherished community character. Engaging the public in economic development initiatives promotes transparent governance, increases public trust, and can lead to sustainable outcomes that benefit everyone.
The collective input from residents, business owners, and community leaders through this task force will be instrumental in ensuring that future development aligns with the long-term vision for Hilton Head Island. As the island continues to evolve, the ability to balance economic opportunity with environmental stewardship and community well-being will define its continued success. Supporting local businesses, participating in community discussions, and staying informed about these critical initiatives are essential for every resident invested in Hilton Head’s bright future.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the purpose of the new task force on Hilton Head Island?
The new task force, comprising 21 individuals, has been formed to tackle how the town manages growth and will help decide the future of land use on Hilton Head Island. It will review and make suggestions on the revised Land Management Ordinance, which is the town’s key tool for overseeing growth and protecting the island’s character.
Who are the members of the Land Management Ordinance Task Force?
The task force is composed of 21 members, including council members, committee chairs, industry representatives, community managers, and residents. Specific representation includes council appointees, chairpersons of the Planning Commission and Design Review Board, representatives from Gullah Geechee preservation groups, the Hilton Head-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce, home builders, realtors, general managers from planned unit developments, and industry representatives for short-term rental, hospitality, and workforce housing.
Why is the Land Management Ordinance being revised?
Town officials state that a rewrite of the Land Management Ordinance is needed to respond to changing development patterns and community needs. The existing 12-year-old ordinance, despite several amendments, requires a comprehensive update to better align with current growth management goals and objectives.
When is the new Land Management Ordinance expected to be finalized?
The Town aims to have the new Land Management Ordinance finalized by July 1, 2026.
How does economic growth impact Hilton Head Island?
Hilton Head Island’s strong economy, driven significantly by tourism with $2.8 billion in revenue and 160 new businesses in 2024, indicates sustained demand and appreciation in property values. This growth, however, necessitates careful management of land use and infrastructure to preserve the island’s unique character and address challenges like traffic congestion and housing availability.
How can community members engage with the task force’s work?
The Town of Hilton Head Island encourages community input and stakeholder participation in the Land Management Ordinance revision process. Details on meeting schedules and opportunities for public comment for the Land Management Ordinance Task Force are available through Town resources.
Key Features of the Hilton Head Island Land Management Ordinance Task Force
| Feature | Description | Scope |
| Task Force Size | 21 members | Hilton Head Island |
| Primary Goal | Decide future of land use and manage growth by reviewing and suggesting revisions to the Land Management Ordinance (LMO) | Hilton Head Island |
| Ordinance Age | Existing LMO is 12 years old, with several amendments in the past 18 months | Hilton Head Island |
| Expected Finalization | Targeted for July 1, 2026 | Hilton Head Island |
| Member Selection Process | Members selected “behind closed doors” at a December 9 meeting | Hilton Head Island |
| Representation | Includes council members, committee chairs, industry representatives, community managers, residents, Gullah Geechee preservation groups, Chamber of Commerce, home builders, and realtors | Hilton Head Island |
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Author: STAFF HERE HILTON HEAD
The HILTON HEAD STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHiltonHead.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Hilton Head Island, Beaufort County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the RBC Heritage golf tournament, Hilton Head Island Wine & Food Festival, and the Gullah Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce and Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, plus leading businesses in tourism and hospitality that power the local economy such as Sea Pines Resort and Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
