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If you own a business, you should already know that at some point, you will need to hire an electrician in Folly Beach to fix electrical issues and maintain your property's wiring systems. Unfortunately, many people forego certified, experienced electricians to save money. The reality is, trying to fix an electrical issue in your business is no small task and often costs more money than hiring a professional. Working with electricity can be dangerous to your property and, more importantly, your health.
It might seem like a good idea to try a DIY approach or call your "do it all" local handyman, but going pro will save you time and money when it comes to serious projects like thermal imaging and three-phase panel installations. Think about it: why spend money buying expensive supplies and countless hours watching electrical repair videos when there's a good chance you'll need professional help in the end? Many DIY electricians have good intentions but often end up damaging electrical systems worse than before.
At Engineered Electrical Solutions, we get the job done right the first time, so you can focus on enjoying running your business while we fix your electrical problem. We bring the same level of quality and reliability to every job we perform, whether it's a routine safety inspection or an entire commercial rewiring project. Unlike some electricians in South Carolina, we go above and beyond to ensure our customers are safe and satisfied with our work. We pride ourselves on keeping customers informed throughout their electrical job and follow up on our projects to make sure our fixes stick.
At the end of the day, excellent customer care is what we strive to achieve. We do so by providing the highest quality commercial services at affordable prices, all year long. Here are just a few reasons why Lowcountry residents trust Engineered Electrical Solutions:
If you're looking for the very best electrician in South Carolina, put down the pen and paper and look no further than Engineered Electrical Solutions. Keep reading to learn more about some of our most popular services.
Having a reliable electrician on hand that you can trust with electrical repairs is of utmost importance when you own a business in South Carolina. For years, Engineered Electrical Solutions has provided business owners with the most effective electrical repair and installation services in the Lowcountry. Our team is adept at assisting businesses of all sizes, from small "mom and pop" shops to industrial plants and everything in between.
We offer a wide range of electrical services, from electrical panel installation and business rewiring to transformer installation and thermal imaging. Modern businesses count on energy-efficient electricity to help run their day-to-day operations. If you need your electrical systems to run smoothly so you can stay focused on building your business, count on Engineered Electrical Solutions to be there when you need us the most.
A few of our most popular commercial and industrial electrical services include but are not limited to:
As a business owner, you know first-hand that closing your doors costs money, time, and possibly your clients. That's why, when you have an electrical issue that must be remedied, you need quick, cost-efficient help so you can keep running your business. But trusting the job of a trained electrician in the hands of an amateur can be a big mistake.
Sure, your uncle may know how to flip a few switches on the breaker in your home, but serving a commercial business is an entirely different animal. In fact, trusting your company's electrical needs to just anyone can end up costing you more in the long run. Here are just a few of the most important reasons to consider hiring an experienced commercial electrical contractor.
Did you know there is a litany of regulations and codes you must follow when servicing electrical components in a commercial setting? From remodels to maintenance, a knowledgeable electrician will know these codes in and out. If they don't, they've got the reference material and support to ensure their work is up to standard. Taking the time to hire a commercial electrical company with vetted technicians means you don't have to worry about legal fines and reprimands for not adhering to regulations associated with common services like commercial lighting installations and upgrades.
In general, a commercial electrical contractor in Folly Beach, SC, must undergo extensive training and pass more tests in order to practice their trade in South Carolina. Like their counterparts in the residential electrical business, they must both pass exams and complete apprenticeships. But commercial electricians have more in-depth training. They must also prove their knowledge of the National Electrical Code, or NEC, which encompasses safety procedures and building codes in the U.S. The advanced training that commercial electricians complete sets the foundation for services such as:
When you break it down to the basics, commercial electricians in the Lowcountry require more experience because of factors like safety, complexity, and reliability. It's not unusual for a contractor to complete over 4,000 hours of on-the-job experience, to learn about complicated topics like voltage and phase balancing, control systems, and phase diagrams.
If you're like most people, you hire professionals like corporate lawyers, helicopter pilots, and commercial electricians to handle the things you don't have the skills to do yourself. Because, if we're being honest, many services provided by commercial electrical contractors are dangerous and even downright deadly. While you can find "How-To" articles that insist that this type of work is simple, taking on an electrical project for your business can have catastrophic consequences - both for your business and for the family you're supporting.
Hiring a commercial electrician for your business safeguards you, your employees, and your business. That's because they're trained to spot commercial electrical hazards and have the tools to fix the problem correctly and according to South Carolina regulations.
Some business owners make it a point to hire non-professionals to handle their electrical work, thinking they'll save money in the long run. In reality, nothing could be further from the truth. Cutting corners and hiring unlicensed friends or family members creates hazards that will set your company back much more than it would to hire a qualified commercial electrician. Mistakes are costly and often end up with you having to close your business while they're corrected. This downtime will affect your ability to do business and may even affect your brand loyalty and customer base.
Energy mismanagement - it's one of the most common ways that businesses lose unnecessary money every year. Though every business in South Carolina will eventually face some sort of energy waste, that doesn't mean you have to settle for expenses you can prevent. At Engineered Electrical Solutions, we're all about supporting our fellow business owners. To help you reduce electrical costs, follow these five tips.
In terms of low-cost solutions, this one is among the best. If you've been using incandescent bulbs throughout your business, try installing compact fluorescents instead. They can last 9x longer and save you money over time. While you're at it, remove any incandescent lights powering exit signs in your building. Replace them with LED alternatives.
Did you grow up in a household where your mom or dad constantly reminded you to turn off the lights when you're done in a room? That same basic principle holds true here. If lights are left on unnecessarily, be sure they're turned off before closing for the day. If you find that doesn't help, you may need to develop a shift-based system to turn off lights. Our team of commercial electricians for your business in cityname, state, have the expertise to help you establish a system to lower energy waste without affecting your company's productivity.
According to the Small Business Administration, HVAC use accounts for nearly 40% of energy use in commercial buildings. It's clear, then, that poor-performing HVAC systems can rack up monthly energy costs quickly. To prevent this from getting out of control, make sure your AC and heating units are well-maintained and free of expensive issues. You may want to also consider installing programmable thermostats, which can automatically control the temperature settings on your property to help maximize your energy savings.
The EPA states that keeping your commercial building properly insulated can save you as much as 10% on your energy bill. Don't settle for obvious areas like walls and windows. Be sure your electrical outlets, pipes, and HVAC ducts are properly insulated too.
At Engineered Electrical Solutions, we can provide you with an energy audit for your business that pinpoints areas of energy waste and how those areas can be improved. Having an electrical assessment is a great idea for any business owner, especially if you have a storefront where customers come and go because it can help lower your overall operational costs.
Commercial and industrial-sized buildings are large and complex by the nature of their construction. By proxy, commercial buildings have complicated wiring and electrical systems. Electrical work in the commercial market is best left to experienced, licensed professionals. If you're looking for the very best commercial electricians in Metro Folly Beach, Engineered Electrical Solutions is here to serve you.
We have completed hundreds of commercial electrician projects for companies like Blue Oyster Restaurant, Shell Gas Stations, Flex Warehouses, Dentist Offices, and many more. With the most up-to-date equipment and years of professional experience, our team is ready to tackle your electrical problem, no matter how large.
Here are just a few of the common electrical issues that we solve for Lowcountry business owners:
Your businesses' electrical system will trip when it has too much electricity running through it. These problems are very common in commercial properties and usually stem from one of three culprits: circuit overloads, short circuits, and ground fault surges. Obviously, when your circuits are tripped regularly, your business operations suffer. To help solve your circuit breaker problems, our commercial electricians will come to your location for in-depth troubleshooting. Once we discover the root cause, we'll get to work on repairing your circuit breaker, so you can continue working and serving your customers.
Like tripped circuit breakers, dimming or flickering lights are among the most common commercial electrical problems in South Carolina. These issues typically stem from poor electrical connections. These poor connections will usually cause sparks, which can start fires and wreak havoc on your commercial building. While dimming lights might seem minor, if you leave this problem to fester, you could be looking at permanent damage to your businesses' electrical systems. Given the danger involved in fixing this problem, it's important that you work with a licensed business electrician like Engineered Electrical Solutions as soon as you're able to.
Dead power outlets aren't always dangerous, unlike other recurring commercial electrical issues. They are, however, disruptive to your company's productivity. Dead outlets are common in older commercial buildings and are often caused by circuit overloads. Connecting multiple high-wattage devices and appliances to the same power socket can cause overheating. When the power outlet overheats, it can lead to tripped circuit breakers. In some cases, the live wire catches fire and burns until it is disconnected. For a reliable solution using high-quality switches, sockets, and circuit breakers, it's best to hire a professional business electrician to get the job done right.
Finding a real-deal, qualified commercial electrician in South Carolina is harder than you might think. Whether it's due to availability or budget, you might be tempted to hire a residential electrician for your commercial electrical problem. While it's true that great residential electricians can help solve commercial issues in theory, it's always best to hire a business electrician with professional experience.
Unlike their residential colleagues, commercial electricians are licensed to deal with different materials and procedures suited specifically for businesses. Commercial wiring is much more complex than other wiring and is strategically installed with maintenance, repair, and changes in mind. Additionally, commercial properties usually use a three-phase power supply, necessitating more schooling, skills, and technical ability to service.
The bottom line? If you're a business owner with commercial electricity problems, it's best to work with a licensed commercial electrician, like you will find at Engineered Electrical Solutions.
Engineered Electrical Solutions has built its reputation on a simple formula: give our customers the highest-quality commercial electrical services, the most helpful customer service, and the best prices available in town.
As a veteran-owned and operated business, we take pride in good old-fashioned hard work and dedication to our craft. No upselling. No misleading fine print. Only quality electrical work and reliable commercial electricians in Folly Beach, SC.
We want to be sure every one of our customers is satisfied, which is why we offer a three-year guaranteed on our labor. If you're in need of a commercial electrician for your business or organization, give our office a call and discover the Engineered Electrical Solutions difference.
843-735-2275
What’s happening with Folly Beach sales and some of the other Charleston Beach real estate markets? Let’s dive into it.Starting with Folly Beach, there’s currently a significant amount of inventory available. Homeowners on Folly Beach made an interesting decision in January of this year when they voted to implement a cap on short-term rentals. Short-term rentals are defined as any properties rented for less than 30 days. To engage in short-term rentals, homeowners must apply for a business license for their property....
What’s happening with Folly Beach sales and some of the other Charleston Beach real estate markets? Let’s dive into it.
Starting with Folly Beach, there’s currently a significant amount of inventory available. Homeowners on Folly Beach made an interesting decision in January of this year when they voted to implement a cap on short-term rentals. Short-term rentals are defined as any properties rented for less than 30 days. To engage in short-term rentals, homeowners must apply for a business license for their property. However, those applying for these licenses, who are also homeowners on Folly Beach, are now placed on a waitlist until the total number of short-term rentals falls below a certain threshold.
This policy change has had a noticeable impact on home sales. Many individuals purchase properties on Folly Beach with the intention of using them for personal use and renting them out as short-term rentals. Consequently, the number of closed sales on Folly Beach this year has seen a significant decline, down by 70 percent compared to the previous year.
Now, let’s turn our attention to other Charleston Beach areas, such as the Isle of Palms. Home sales on IOP have also decreased, with a decline of approximately 33 percent. Kiawah Island is experiencing a similar trend, with a 25 percent drop in home sales. The average decrease in closings throughout Charleston County stands at 22 percent for this year. Isle of Palms and Kiawah Island are aligned with these figures. However, there is a notable exception: Sullivan’s Island, which has historically limited short-term rentals, is bucking the trend. Sullivan’s Island has actually seen a 20 percent increase in closed sales between last year and this year.
The question arises: Does limiting short-term rentals genuinely affect property values? It appears that in the short term, it does have a substantial impact. Take Sullivan’s Island as an example, where property values have increased along with the number of closings, despite the restrictions on short-term rentals.
As for the future of Folly Beach, it remains uncertain at this point. Real estate is unpredictable over the long term, and none of us possess a crystal ball. Nevertheless, it’s intriguing to observe the varying trends in different beach areas.
If you have any inquiries regarding beach properties in Charleston or any other aspects of our beautiful city, please don’t hesitate to call or email me and my real estate team. We’re here to assist you.
Mikki Ramey is the broker in charge for Healthy Realty and has served the Charleston area for over 10 years. She has been recognized for her excellence in real estate as an East Cooper Top Producer and a Realtor of Distinction. Mikki is also certified as a Short Sale and Foreclosure specialist. She is a licensed real estate broker in South Carolina and is a member of the National Association of Realtors. As a realtor, she gives real estate lectures to students, residents, dentists, and doctors at the Medical University of South Carolina.
For more information, visit www.healthy-realty.com
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A husband and wife’s mission to help mitigate physical pain and suffering in Mount Pleasant was on grand display during Harbor Wellness’ Oct. 3 ribbon-cutting event at the venue’s 1131 Queensborough Blvd. location.
Business owners Dr. Brandon Carroll and Dr. Kaitlyn Carroll treated Mount Pleasant Chamber of Commerce representatives and Town Council members to a walkthrough of their chiropractic facility prior to the official ribbon-cutting for the five-year business.
The rebranding, according to Kaitlyn, consists of a new look, new name and new website, although the range of services at the Queensborough Shopping Center staple (formerly known as Corrective Chiropractic) hasn’t changed.
In their quest of identifying solutions for their achy clientele, the Harbor Wellness staff will initially determine if surgical intervention is necessary for incoming patients.
“There’s definitely scenarios where surgery is 100 percent the option that’s needed,” said Kaitlyn, “but every day we work on pain management without drugs and without surgery.”
While Brandon will typically examine many local golfers who come in with back pain, Kaitlyn services a slew of pregnant women who struggle with several physical changes her patients experience during their nine-month stretch of carrying a baby.
But an overwhelming majority of individuals who visit Harbor Wellness deal with the sometimes excruciating pain associated with sitting at a desk for long periods of time.
Kaitlyn described it as the wear and tear that’s being inflicted on one’s spine after years and decades of remaining mostly stationary in a seated position.
Desk jockeys, she continued, will usually manifest some sort of forward head posture that causes one’s shoulders and back to slouch.
“We have what’s called spinal decompression that is FDA approved,” Kaitlyn explained. “It’s a wonderful, gold-standard treatment option that’s a non-surgical intervention. It’s huge for people who have disc herniations or disc bulges, chronic radiating pain, especially in the neck and lower back.”
The East Lansing, Michigan native further noted that once a patient has concluded their series of adjustments, some level of maintenance is recommended in the form of strengthening, stretching and even implementing changes to one’s office environment by raising the height of a computer or buying a better chair.
Harbor Wellness also treats children and teens, many of whom come in with neck symptoms due to their tendency of looking down into their cellphones.
Kaitlyn’s own condition as a youngster inspired her to become a chiropractor, as she recalled suffering from scoliosis (a sideways curvature of the spine), which not only produces lots of pain and discomfort, but can also heighten the risk of injury.
After her own trials and being around doctors who worked with patients in varying levels of distress, Kaitlyn made it her life’s calling to help folks conquer their suffering.
“I just wanted to live in that world ... pain management and prevention and see what we can do to make your quality of life better. We’ve only been here for five years, but we love it. Charleston is home — we’re not going anywhere.”
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In recent years, recycled building materials have become increasingly popular in the world of construction and home design. From glass to newspaper, your recyclables are being turned into a wide range of unique and useful building materials. Here’s a closer look at some of the latest advancements.
Recycled Glass
Recycled glass has been repurposed into many different materials for construction projects. From asphalt to glass bricks to fiberglass insulation, it’s a versatile material known for its durability. In home design, recycled glass can be used to create decorative tiles. These tiles can be used anywhere normal ceramic tiles would be installed — kitchen backsplashes, shower walls, even pool floors. The best aspect of using recycled glass tiles is that they create a distinct appearance that other materials don’t offer.
Recycled glass can also be used in large-scale products like countertops and flooring to give a decorative finish.
Newspaper Wood
Newspaper wood turns paper back into wood. To form this material, many sheets of paper are glued together then rolled and compressed into solid logs. When a newspaper wood log is cut, the layers of paper mimic the growth rings of a tree and therefore resemble the aesthetics of real wood. Newspaper wood can be treated like most other wood products by cutting, milling, sanding and finishing with paint or varnish.
Ecobricks
Ecobricks are made directly from plastic waste pollution to reduce the harmful effect that plastic has on the environment. Ecobricks are plastic bottles that are filled with small pieces of plastic waste to create a solid plastic brick. These bricks can then be used to construct buildings or architectural elements in your yard.
Rubber Tires
Tires take 50-80 years to break down in a landfill, but they are highly useful when recycled into building materials. Shredded or chipped tire rubber can be used as a lightweight and flexible fill material in construction projects like highway embankments and retaining walls.
The same shredded rubber can be used as mulch in landscaping and gardening. Recycled tire rubber is also frequently used to create impact-absorbing surfaces for playgrounds, sports fields and athletic tracks.
There are many interesting and inventive ways that your recyclables are being turned into building materials. As the construction industry continues to strive for lower carbon emissions, we’re sure to see more sustainable building materials develop in the coming years.
For information about buying and selling in our market or to discuss your specific situation, reach out anytime at 843-442-2219.
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FOLLY BEACH, S.C. (WCBD) – Warm weather and plenty of sunshine was a welcoming sign to the crowds of people enjoying the Labor Day on Folly Beach. But the heavy foot traffic and recent high tides come only days after Folly Beach saw significant dune erosion after Tropical Storm Idalia.A coastal consultant with the city of Folly Beach told News 2 that the dune erosion they faced from Idalia was worse than Hurricane Matthew back in 2016 and could have lasting impacts through the winter.On Monday beach officials set up cones...
FOLLY BEACH, S.C. (WCBD) – Warm weather and plenty of sunshine was a welcoming sign to the crowds of people enjoying the Labor Day on Folly Beach. But the heavy foot traffic and recent high tides come only days after Folly Beach saw significant dune erosion after Tropical Storm Idalia.
A coastal consultant with the city of Folly Beach told News 2 that the dune erosion they faced from Idalia was worse than Hurricane Matthew back in 2016 and could have lasting impacts through the winter.
On Monday beach officials set up cones to create a path for rescue vehicles and to prevent people from setting up too close to the dunes.
The assistant manager at Folly Beach County Park, Sam Colgate, said in the past three days, even with minimal space, they’ve seen thousands of people at the county park alone.
“From Friday to today we’ve had about 5,000 people here at Folly Beach County Park, it’s been pretty busy, especially for after a storm,” she said. “This week especially we’ve seen a lot of people setting up camp right against the dunes, I’d say for the most part people are very respectful,” said Colgate.
Dune protection continues to be a priority for Folly Beach after Tropical Storm Idalia removed about 15 feet of dunes in some locations that separate the beach from homes and the island itself. And according to coastal consultant Nicole Elko, it’s leaving the city in a vulnerable spot for the rest of the hurricane season.
“We basically have no protection if another storm were to come by this season,” said Elko.
Folly Beach has plans to renourish its dunes but that will happen after hurricane season.
“Folly Beach hasn’t been renourished since 2018, so this winter the contract will be awarded for the next renourishment, so that is certainly coming just in time, not to get us through this hurricane season but to get us through the next one,” said Elko.
Beach officials want to remind folks to stay off the dunes, especially after the recent erosion
“We definitely want folks to be respectful and not go up in the dunes, they are a natural barrier, kind of help us for lots of reasons out here,” said Colgate.
People like to call Folly Beach the “fun” beach, and maybe it is, especially if you’re visiting for the restaurants and bars.But there’s also a measure of serenity here if you know where, and when, to look.Here’s the best way to find it: Get here early; 7 a.m. should work — before the traffic on the only road in and out becomes a nightmare.Bring the dog if you have one: From May through September, they’re allowed on the beach before 10 a.m. and after 6 p.m.Check the tides ...
People like to call Folly Beach the “fun” beach, and maybe it is, especially if you’re visiting for the restaurants and bars.
But there’s also a measure of serenity here if you know where, and when, to look.
Here’s the best way to find it: Get here early; 7 a.m. should work — before the traffic on the only road in and out becomes a nightmare.
Bring the dog if you have one: From May through September, they’re allowed on the beach before 10 a.m. and after 6 p.m.
Check the tides online before you arrive: at high tide, part of this walk is underwater.
Park in the grass just outside Folly Beach County Park. Make sure your tires aren’t on the pavement or you’ll have a ticket when you get back.
Take a right when your feet hit the sand.
Keep going, past the pelicans flying so low they could dip their toes in the water, past the last jetty trying to keep the sand from washing away.
Before you’ve walked a mile, you’ll reach a bend in the beach. This is the spot.
To the left, waves lap at the coast. To the right, still water.
It feels like you’ve reached the end of the ocean. Or the beginning.
Sit in the sand. Before you head back to civilization, let the scene wash through your eyes and into your body.
Explore
The Washout
Head to the other end of the island if your companion is a surfboard instead of a dog. A spot off East Ashley Avenue known as The Washout is a favorite for surfers. A bit farther along the street, a paved trail covered in graffiti leads to a small beach with views of the Morris Island Lighthouse.
If you’re brave enough, join the kite surfers being pulled along the water on windy days, sometimes soaring high above the surface before splashing back down.
Folly Beach pier
The pier reopened in December 2022 after a two-year, $14 million rebuild. It’s 1,049 feet long. The pier has been a part of Folly Beach — you can’t miss it if you head toward the sand — since the 1930s. Pay $5 for an all-day fishing pass or just walk to the end and listen to the water.
The pier is open from 8 a.m. to sunset.
Eat and drink like a local
Lost Dog Cafe
For brunch, the go-to meal for late sleepers or early drinkers, try Lost Dog Cafe. Located in a former laundromat on West Huron Avenue, you can find breakfast and bloodies on the menu all day. Try a breakfast burrito, or grab some fried green tomatoes and a chicken salad croissant from the lunch menu. And like many other eateries in Folly, your dog is welcome to join you.
Jack of Cups
A favorite of The Post and Courier’s food editor, Jack of Cups on Center Street has a menu built for the adventurous eater. Boasting a bevy of vegetarian options on a menu the owners describe as “globally inspired,” the kitchen also cranks out dishes you probably never come across at home: Among them: Cap’n Crunch deviled eggs, dill pickle soup and unicorn pop rock cheesecake.
The Bounty Bar
Created by the owners of The Royal American in Charleston, The Bounty Bar on Center Street aspires to serve “better than it has to be” bar food. It’s open until 1 a.m. daily and has you covered whether you’re craving seafood, chicken or steak.
Chico Feo
Head to Chico Feo on East Ashley Avenue for tacos, beer and live music. Check their calendar for musical performances. Or show up on a Monday for soapbox night, when you can sign up to take the stage and show off your talent, whether it’s singing, spoken word or parlor tricks.
Shopping
If you need groceries or a quick snack, try Bert’s Market on East Ashley Avenue.
A smattering of surf and beach shops in the heart of town will have everything you need for a day on the beach, including the towel or sunscreen you accidentally left at home.
While you’re indoors — easily the worst place to be at Folly Beach — you can also pick up some souvenirs for the family members who couldn’t join you.
If you plan to spend most of your time on the beach, there are some rules you should remember:
No alcohol, glass containers, plastic bags, balloons, Styrofoam, open fires, fireworks or littering.
Surfing without a leash is prohibited. From May 15 to Sept. 15, surfing is prohibited from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. from 2nd Street East to 3rd Street West. From Sept. 16 to May 14, surfing is allowed in any area. It is prohibited within 200 feet of the fishing pier.
Stay off the dunes and use public walkovers.
To protect sea turtle hatchlings, no lights are allowed that illuminate the front beach between 10 p.m. and dawn from May 1-Oct. 31. For a full list of beach rules, check visitfolly.com.
Reach John Ramsey at 843-906-9351. Follow him on Twitter @johnwramsey.
Food editor Parker Milner contributed to this report.
FOLLY BEACH, S.C. (WCBD) – The Arctic Avenue Plan officially started being discussed in 2021, and on Thursday, there will be a public meeting where community members can give their input about the changes they’d like to see made to Arctic Avenue.The City of Folly Beach is discussing plans to make several improvements to one of the city’s most active two-lane roads.“What our proposal is saying, ‘Hey, lets make this officially a one-lane, one-way street with parking on one side and a pedestrian path ...
FOLLY BEACH, S.C. (WCBD) – The Arctic Avenue Plan officially started being discussed in 2021, and on Thursday, there will be a public meeting where community members can give their input about the changes they’d like to see made to Arctic Avenue.
The City of Folly Beach is discussing plans to make several improvements to one of the city’s most active two-lane roads.
“What our proposal is saying, ‘Hey, lets make this officially a one-lane, one-way street with parking on one side and a pedestrian path on the other,’” Folly Beach Mayor Tim Goodwin said. “So people can have a place to walk, place to park and you still have a place wide enough to safely go down the street in your vehicle.”
Thursday’s public input meeting will be the second after the first one was held in June earlier this year.
Goodwin says consultants who were hired to carry out this project will show neighbors the two alternatives they’ve come up with for the city’s commercial and residential districts.
“They’ll show them all the drawings and proposed parking areas and non-parking areas and walking paths and all that,” he said. “Then, they’ll get feedback from the citizens like they did the first time.”
All that feedback will be considered before a formal proposal is presented to city administrators and city council.
“Then what we have to do is we have to take that and turn it into the Department of Transportation (DOT) for their approval,” Goodwin said. :It could take two years to be approved, just depends on how fast DOT wants to work.”
Katie Zimmerman with Charleston Moves says the development process leading up to this point has been phenomenal and she’s optimistic because the time and attention to detail the design team has put in.
“I mean a lot of the time,” Zimmerman said, “with a lot of these projects, there are no walking audits that are done, and they’ve done two. So, they’re really taking their time and collecting as much data and going out and seeing the user experience, which is really admirable.”
Goodwin says no matter which alternative is chosen, or how long it takes to implement the changes, he just wants to make sure it’s what’s best for everyone.
“For something like this that’s going to be around for a long time hopefully,” he said, “it takes a while to get it right because you definitely want to get it right the first time.”
The public input meeting will start at 5:00 p.m. Thursday at Folly Beach City Hall.
FOLLY BEACH, S.C. (WCIV) — The debate on short-term rentals is once again heating up on Folly Beach. Residents say proposed amendments approved earlier this year could add dozens more rentals to the area.Folly Beach residents voted to cap short-term rentals to 800 in February. It was nearly a year-and-a-half-long debate th...
FOLLY BEACH, S.C. (WCIV) — The debate on short-term rentals is once again heating up on Folly Beach. Residents say proposed amendments approved earlier this year could add dozens more rentals to the area.
Folly Beach residents voted to cap short-term rentals to 800 in February. It was nearly a year-and-a-half-long debate that seemingly came to a close.
But now, residents are worried new amendments to the ordinance proposed by city councilmembers could increase the number of short-term rentals beyond the cap approved earlier this year.
READ MORE: South Carolina Attorney General to host bond reform discussion in Charleston
The first amendment would allow short-term rental owners who were not renewed by the deadline this year, but paid taxes on the property previously, to have a chance to apply for license renewal.
The second amendment says if an investor got a short-term rental license approved for a construction project before the ordinance was passed on February 7th and hasn't received their certificate of occupancy, they could get approval for a license after the deadline as well.
Right now, there are dozens of rentals on the waitlist. Folly Beach residents say this would only create more of a backlog and could open the door for many more short-term rentals on the island.
“It just means if you pay your taxes, you could then get a license. It could be hundreds more, and basically take us to the same position we were before the cap, where there was no limit on short-term rentals," said Ann Peets, president of the Folly Beach Residents Association. "It takes it back to them being really a dominant force on the island over the residents."
WCIV
Councilmembers DJ Rich, Billy Grooms and Adam Barker proposed these amendments. News 4 reached out to each one of them for comment but did not receive a response.
Peets and other residents plan to propose some alternatives at the city council meeting on Tuesday, which they believe could help clear the backlog.
Peets says since there are already tons of homes on the waitlist, promoting alternatives like 72-day rentals or long-term rentals on the island could cut down on the number of investors aiming to get STR licenses.
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But more importantly, she says the city could avoid these headaches by just having more transparency of its enforcement. Peets claims it would shorten the waitlist and also improve compliance throughout the island.
“We want to see them move to the next phase where that enforcement really is starting to happen, where they are going in and basically issuing violations when they happen, not just nice warnings that don't result in anything and that really rewards the people that do a nice job in terms of property management," Peets said. "They can have a great investment rental that is a good community player and really moves it, moves them up in the list and makes them thought of most positively on the island."
Folly Beach mayor Tim Goodwin says to stay in good standing and adhere to the enforcement of the ordinance, owners must keep business and rental licenses up to date, know who they rent to, and avoid violating the city’s strike system.
The amendments will have their first reading at the Folly Beach city council meeting Tuesday night at 7 o'clock.
The debate over short-term rentals is taking shape across the country. Locally, Sullivan’s island and James Island have both discussed short-term rental bans at recent council meetings.
Nationally, Dallas became the first city to ban short-term rentals last week.
