Month: August 2025

SIPOA Call for Candidates – 2026

On By SIPOAIn Annual Meeting, Call for Candidates, SIPOA

The SIPOA Nominating Committee is looking for individuals interested in serving on the Board of Directors or Nominating Committee. In the 2026 Seabrook Island Property Owners Association election, candidates are needed for four (4) three-year terms on the Board of Directors and two (2) two-year term positions on the Nominating Committee.

The deadline to submit your Candidate Profile Form is on October 1, 2025.

If you are interested in running for the Board of Directors or Nominating Committee, click here for application forms, important information and frequently asked questions.

Eligible candidates must have owned property on Seabrook Island for at least one year prior to nomination (before October 1, 2024). Prior service on SIPOA committees is encouraged.

We look forward to hearing from you!

Get the Scoop – ARC: New Faces, New Processes & a New Location

On By SIPOAIn Activities, ARC, Commercial Access, Get the Scoop, SIPOA

An introduction to the ARC and Commercial Access Team who are dedicated to providing an efficient process and consistent communication and customer service.

Join the ARC and Commercial Access team on September 8 at 3:00pm in the Lake House, Live Oak Hall.

View more information on all the exciting changes with ARC here.

When: Monday, September 8
Where: Lake House, Live Oak Hall
Time: 3:00pm

Click to View GTS Event List

Exciting New ARC Updates!

On By SIPOAIn ARC, Commercial Access, SIPOA

The ARC has some exciting new updates: New Faces, New Processes and a New Location!

New Faces – We would like to introduce you to the ARC and Commercial Access Team, who are dedicated to providing an efficient approval process and consistent communication and customer service.

Kim Turczyn joined us in November of 2022. Having had previous experience working with municipalities, she was the ARC Assistant. Her job has recently evolved into the Regime Community Compliance Assistant position. She will be working directly with Regime and Association managers and boards to improve communication and assist owners, managers and contractors during the submittal process and review of their project requests. As all Regime / Association projects must meet the Standard for that particular Regime, Kim is becoming familiar with the Regime / Association Standards to better assist owners and contractors. kturczyn@sipoa.org

Ana Donahue began in January of 2025. She has years of retail and commercial customer service experience. As the Single Family Community Compliance Assistant, Ana is committed to providing all customers (Property Owners, contractors, etc.) a friendly and efficient experience as she assists with the submittal process and initial review of their project requests such as painting, rot repair, and window replacement. She helps owners and contractors ensure that their project meets the Requirements of the SIPOA Policies and Procedures. adonahue@sipoa.org

Laura Demnard joined us in June 2025 as the New Construction Community Compliance Assistant. Her focus is on all aspects of New Construction and larger Remodels. Her previous experience in Code Enforcement with the City of Charleston has also prepared her for the Compliance related portion of her duties to ensure that job sites are maintained and Policies met. She assists with preparing the documents for the ARC meetings, correspondence with owners, contractors and architects and has recently begun to assist with onsite Initial Site Visits and Post Construction Reviews. ldemnard@sipoa.org

Cindi Bray also joined us in June as the ARC Community Services Representative. All things ARC begin and end with Cindi. She is the receptionist and assists us all: co-workers, Property Owners, and contractors alike. She has several years of experience in hospital management and customer service, and she uses that experience to assist and facilitate a smooth ARC experience in person, by phone, or via email. All ARC requests should be sent to her at arc@sipoa.org to be assigned to the appropriate assistant. Once approved, she will also send the final email to provide you with a copy of the approval and information on any next steps that might be needed.

Keiaunta “Kiki” Alexander just joined us a few weeks ago as the Commercial Access Assistant. She has a strong background in customer service and assists vendors and contractors with the SymLiv system where the Commercial Access barcodes and day passes are maintained. Some of our vendors are individuals, while some have very large vehicle fleets. We use the SymLiv online system to streamline the Commercial Access process, and there are often questions to answer, and of course, barcodes to affix to vehicles. commercialaccess@sipoa.org

New Processes – Along with our growing team, we’ve rolled out some process improvements to enhance your experience with the Architectural Review Committee and Department. While we have some big plans and will be transitioning to a new online project and construction approval process in the next few months (Citizenserve). The Town of Seabrook Island also uses Citizenserve for application processing.

We have already implemented some new internal tools, systems and target timetables that will provide quicker and more effective communication on your project or any questions. Once a request is submitted to ARC (in person or via email to arc@sipoa.org), an email is sent to acknowledge receipt with 24 hours. Within 2 business days, when the project has been received by Kim, Ana or Laura, they will send an email letting the applicant know that it has been assigned, if they’ve had a chance to review the application, and will let you know if there is any additional information needed for the full review. Within 7 business days, of receipt and initial review, an additional email will be sent stating that the project is now being forwarded to the Director for review. Within 7 business days you will receive an additional email stating that additional information is needed or that the application has been approved. With this improved workflow and defined timeline there should be fewer delays and clearer, more consistent communication providing a smoother review and approval process.

We are dedicated to improving this process and applicant experience. Please keep in mind that almost 50% of the applications submitted are incomplete in some way and that delays the process. Here are some examples of information needed to ensure your application for exterior improvements is complete

  • If painting, the color brand, name, number and LRV (Light Reflective Value) are required.
  • If doing roof work, provide the shingle brand and color name. Also note if it is a roof repair or full roof replacement

If the project is a simple one where no changes to materials, colors, etc., are proposed and the repair or replacement will match existing, we are working toward an expedited process where approvals may take as few as 2 business days.

We are in the beginning stages of process and software transition with a goal of full implementation in early 2026. The staff will be trained on the new software and we will provide information on the new web-based system once we are closer to the implementation date.

New Location – The SIPOA ARC and Commercial Access offices have moved to a new location. We are now located at 1002 Landfall Way (previous SIC Amenity office location). As with the SIPOA office, we are open Monday – Friday from 8:00am – 4:00pm.

With new faces, new processes, and a new location, we’re looking forward to providing an efficient and pleasant experience for owners, contractors, and architects from submission to approval. We are excited about all of these changes and look forward to sharing this with the Seabrook Island community. More information about the updates will be shared at the September 8th Get the Scoop meeting.

LSV Safety – Sharing SIPOA Roads

On By SIPOAIn Safety & Security

SIPOA has received many comments from Property Owners voicing concerns about Low-Speed Vehicle (LSV) safety. Our beautiful island is home to many families utilizing LSVs, cars and bicycles, and we want to ensure that everyone travels safely while sharing our roads. To enhance community safety, SIPOA is launching an initiative focusing on LSV safety education and rules enforcement. SIPOA officers already monitor and stop LSVs when violations are observed. In June 2025, 23 LSVs were issued citations for observed violations. 52% of the violators were Property Owners, 39% were renters, and 9% were guests of Property Owners.

Between August 1, 2025, and Labor Day, additional officers will be stationed around the island for added enforcement, including citations of observed safety violations. Note – SIPOA officers have jurisdiction on SIPOA roadways only. They cannot enforce in areas outside the gate between Landfall Way and the traffic circle, or on SIC property.

LSVs have been permitted on Seabrook Island since 2008. They’re popular alternatives because they conserve fuel, use less space in parking areas, and their top speed complies with our 25mph speed limit.

Currently, there are 508 LSVs registered to SIPOA Property Owners. That means almost 20% of SIPOA residents own LSVs for their personal use. During peak visitor season, rental LSVs are added to the mix of vehicles on the island.

SIPOA wants to ensure that all drivers are aware of LSV rules. Rental guests are provided with vehicle rules prior to obtaining a gate pass, and the following information is a refresher for all LSV operators.

LSV BASICS

What is an LSV?

An LSV:

  • Is a 4-wheeled motor-vehicle with a maximum speed of 25mph.
  • Is registered with the state as a motor vehicle.
  • Is insured.
  • Has license plates with LSV or LV designations.
  • Has a 17-digit VIN number assigned by the manufacturer.
  • May only be operated by a licensed driver at least 16 years of age.
  • May only be driven on roadways with posted speed limits of 35 mph or less.
  • May NOT be driven on bike paths, sidewalks, trails, boardwalks or golf courses.
  • Is subject to the same vehicle laws as a regular motor-vehicle – including DUI/open cans and use of seatbelts/child safety seats

LSVs may be electric or gasoline-powered, weigh less than 3,000 lbs., and have:

  • Headlights
  • Tail lights
  • Front and rear turn signals
  • Brake lights
  • Reflectors
  • Exterior mirrors
  • Parking brake
  • Windshield
  • Seatbelts for every seat
  • A speedometer
  • A horn

What is NOT an LSV?

An LSV is NOT a “Golf Cart” or “Street-Legal” golf cart (SLGC) although the terms are often used interchangeably by the casual observer. SLGCs are golf carts that have been retrofitted to include some of the same equipment features as an LSV.

If Golf Carts and LSVs have similar equipment, what’s the difference?

The most significant difference is that LSVs are classified as motor vehicles and have 17-digit Vehicle Identification Numbers (VIN) just like your car or truck. They are registered by the state DMV as a motor vehicle, not a golf cart. They are issued LSV license plates, require insurance, and may only be operated by a licensed driver.

SLGCs have a 9-15 digit serial numbers and may be issued a Golf Cart Permit by the DMV. Even if the golf cart manufacturers have installed LSV features in a SLGC, the vehicle is not “street legal” to Federal standards unless it has a 17 digit VIN#. The State of SC “will not title or register homemade low speed vehicles, retrofitted golf carts, or any other similar vehicles, since these will not qualify as low speed vehicles in this state.” Golf carts including SLGCs, are not permitted on SIPOA roadways.

Who can drive an LSV?

LSVs may only be operated by drivers who:

  • Are at least 16 years of age AND
  • Who have a valid driver’s license.

Drivers must have their driver’s license and vehicle registration in their possession while operating an LSV. Remember – if a child under age 16 or an unlicensed driver operating a motor vehicle gets into an accident, the owner of the vehicle may be held criminally responsible for child endangerment. The owner could also be financially responsible for any damages caused by an accident involving an underaged/unlicensed driver.

How many people can be in an LSV?

  • The number of seats in an LSV is equal to the number of passengers allowed in the vehicle.
  • One passenger per seat – No one is permitted to stand, sit on laps, or share seats.

Are seatbelts required?

  • Yes – LSVs are motor vehicles subject to SC seatbelt laws.
  • All passengers must be secured.
  • The SIPOA citation amount for failure to use a seatbelt is $50.00 for each unsecured passenger.

Children in an LSV?

SC has specific child safety motor vehicle laws.

  • Children under age 8 or under 4’9” tall must be in a car seat or booster seat appropriate for their age and size.
  • Drivers may face penalties for failing to properly secure children.
  • The violation for a car seat violation is $150.00 plus possible legal actions or insurance issues if an accident occurs.

Let’s work together to protect our families and visitors. Please abide by these safety measures and help us create a safer more enjoyable environment for everyone.

Board of Directors & Nominating Committee Kick-Off

On By SIPOAIn Annual Meeting, Board of Directors, Nominating Committee

We are officially kicking off the annual candidate nomination process for the SIPOA Board of Directors and the SIPOA Nominating Committee. The 2026 Nominating Committee includes: Deb Ott, Milum Livesay, Drew Kemmeling and Jean Daly. The Board of Directors Chair of the Committee is Cindy O’Neill.

SIPOA has four (4) current SIPOA Board members completing their 3-year terms in February: Susan May, Sue Ferland, Joyce Phillips and Mike Sankovich. We also have two (2) Nominating Committee members also completing their term this coming February: Deb Ott and Milum Livesay. Many thanks to all of them for their service to our community and they have several months of committee and Board activities as they complete their terms.

We encourage all Property Owners to explore the candidate process for either a Board Director or a Nominating Committee Role.

For the Board of Directors, we need candidates who meet these criteria:

  • Are Property Owners in good standing with SIPOA who purchased their property prior to October 2024.
  • Have experience on SIPOA Committees or other similar community or not-for-profit committees is preferred.
  • Are full-time OR part-time residents. Most SIPOA Board and Committee meetings have a virtual zoom option so being full-time on the island is not a requirement.
  • Have the ability to work well with others.
  • Understand that all Board members are required to serve in the best interest of all Property Owners.
  • Have the willingness and ability to commit the required time for Board and Committee duties.
  • Have the ability to evaluate issues and work collaboratively to recommend solutions.
  • Have skillsets, volunteer, board, or professional experience that benefit the community.

For the Nominating Committee, we need candidates who:

  • Have a broad social network and a willingness to put in the time needed to identify outstanding candidates.
  • Understand the roles the Board of Directors and SIPOA committees play in Association governance.
  • Have the ability to evaluate the suitability of candidates to best meet the qualifications for the Board of Directors and Nominating Committee.
  • Are Property Owners in good standing with SIPOA who purchased their property prior to October 2024.

Cindy O’Neill, 2024 – 2027 Board Director, on her Board experience:
When I decided to run for the SIPOA Board, I was newly retired and a new full-time resident, having been a part-timer for a number of years. I didn’t know quite what to expect but got indoctrinated quickly. I have learned so much about how the island runs and met people I would not have known. There is a time commitment, but the work is rewarding because it affects our lives so personally and we see the effects almost immediately.

Listed below are some of the challenges that our 2026-2028 Board must address and solve for:

  • Beach renourishment and sea wall maintenance.
  • Implementing a long-term master plan for our SIPOA natural spaces, amenities and facilities.
  • Wildlife and habitat conservation.
  • Evaluating financial and operational risk management impacts of potential storms on SIPOA

If you want to engage in the policies of our POA and really get in the “know” on what’s happening on our island,

If you are a lifetime learner and enjoy being part of challenging projects with other volunteers, and

If you enjoy leading effective committees to propose new policies, future leadership candidates, and leading practices for our HOA,

Then, please reach out to Cindy O’Neill at cindy.oneill@sipoa.org to set up a conversation with a 2026 Nominating Committee member.

Thanks for considering volunteering and supporting SIPOA. Please see the frequently asked questions related to the SIPOA annual nomination process below.

SEABROOK ISLAND PROPERTY OWNERS ASSOCIATION (SIPOA) BOARD AND NOMINATING COMMITTEE ELECTION PROCESS ANSWERS TO FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Positions Available for the SIPOA 2026 Election:

In the 2026 SIPOA election, candidates are needed for:

  • Four (4) three-year terms on the Board of Directors
  • Two (2) two-year term positions on the Nominating Committee

Eligibility:

Seabrook Island Property Owners in Good Standing (not more than 30 days delinquent in any obligation to SIPOA) who have owned property for at least one year (purchased before October 1, 2024), whether full or part-time residents.

Board of Directors Composition:

  • Consists of 12 Directors
  • Members serve 3-year terms (Bylaws §5.1)

Nominating Committee Composition:

  • Consists of five members: four voting members and one Board Member (votes only in case of a tie).
  • Members serve two-year terms.

Policy Based Governance:

The Board operates under a Policy Based Governance model, focusing on defining desirable outcomes and establishing policies. Committees make policy recommendations to the Board. The Executive Director and staff implement policy and oversee day-to-day operations.

SIPOA committees are:

  • Amenities and Activities Committee (Bylaws §7.4.8)
  • Architectural Review Committee (ARC) (Bylaws §7.4.6)
  • Communications Committee (Bylaws §7.4.9)
  • Environmental Committee (Bylaws §7.4.7)
  • Finance Committee (Bylaws §7.4.1)
  • General Operating and Maintenance Committee (GOMC) (Bylaws §7.4.3)
  • Legal Committee (Bylaws §7.4.4)
  • Long Range Planning and Development Committee(Bylaws §7.4.5)
  • Nominating Committee (Bylaws §7.6)
  • Safety and Security Committee (Bylaws §7.4.2)

Executive Committee:

  • Composed of Board Officers: President, Vice-President, Treasurer, Secretary, and Legal Committee Chair (Bylaws §5.15).
  • Handles matters between regular Board meetings, including personnel issues, contract negotiations, and legal matters covered by attorney-client privilege (Bylaws §5.14)

Responsibilities of the Board of Directors (Bylaws §3.2)

  • Represent all Seabrook Island Property Owners.
  • Attend a minimum of two-thirds (2/3) of monthly Board and special meetings (in person, by telephone, or video conference).
  • Each Director chairs, vice chairs, or co-chairs one or two committees.

Criteria for Board of Directors Candidates:

Must meet requirements outlined in Bylaws §7.6, including:

  • Experience at Seabrook Island (e.g., committee participation, community involvement, volunteer service).
  • Relevant professional and career experience.
  • Have the ability to work well with others.
  • Understand that Board members are required to serve in the best interest of all Property Owners.
  • Have the willingness and ability to commit to the required time for Board and Committee duties.
  • Have the ability to evaluate issues and work collaboratively to recommend solutions

Technology Skills for Board Members:

Required:

  • Dedicated SIPOA email account (will be provided by SIPOA IT staff).
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Word or compatible word processing software (able to read/export MS Word and save PDFs).

Preferred:

  • Ability to use Microsoft Excel and PowerPoint.
  • Familiarity with SharePoint for information access.

Time Commitment for Board Members:

  • Monthly Board meetings on the third Monday at 1:00 p.m., lasting up to three hours.
  • Optional working sessions on the third Monday at 9:00a.m., lasting one to two hours.
  • Committee assignments require additional time (see Committee descriptions for details)
  • Mandatory attendance at the Annual Meeting and Organizational Meeting in February (approximately 3 hours total).
  • Mandatory attendance at Board Orientation in February (approximately 8 hours).
  • Committee chairs are responsible for creating agendas, minutes, and monthly reports (2-4 hours).

Responsibilities of the Nominating Committee:

Actively recruit and select qualified candidates for the SIPOA Board of Directors and Nominating Committee.

Criteria for Nominating Committee Candidate:

Criteria meet requirements outlined in Bylaws §7.6, including:

  • Experience at Seabrook Island (e.g., committee participation, community involvement, volunteer service).
  • Relevant professional and career experience.
  • Have a broad social network and a willingness to put in the time needed to identify outstanding candidates.
  • Have an understanding of the roles the Board of Directors and SIPOA committees play in Association governance.
  • Have the ability to evaluate the suitability of candidates to best meet the qualifications for the Board of Directors and Nominating Committee.

Time Commitment for Nominating Committee Member:

  • Work begins in April and concludes in January, with monthly meetings initially, increasing to bi-monthly as needed.
  • Candidate interviews typically occur in October, requiring availability during this period.

Additional Information on Nominating Committee Duties:

Available in the SIPOA Bylaws on the SIPOA website.

Candidate Selection Process for SIPOA Board and Nominating Committee:

Application process:

  • Submit a Candidate Application Form by October 1, 2025.
  • Nominating Committee reviews all Candidate Forms.
  • Qualified candidates are invited for a structured group interview with the Nominating Committee. Conducted in person or via videoconferencing.
  • Interviews use a standardized list of questions.
  • Nominating Committee selects candidates for the ballot after interviews

Options for Candidates Not Selected for the Ballot:

  • Nominee names for Board of Directors and Nominating Committee are posted at the SIPOA office and on SIPOA.org at least 60 days before the Annual Meeting.
  • Additional nominations can be made via written petition submitted within 30-days of posting (Bylaws §7.6): Requires signatures from 50 or more Property Owners in Good Standing.

Key Dates for Candidates:

  • Application Forms Due: October 1, 2025
  • Interviews: October 2025 (in person or via videoconference).
  • Submission of Additional Materials:
  • Biographical Statement, Position Statement, and signed Conflict of Interest Form due at the time of the interview.
  • Candidate photo submitted or taken during the interview
  • Nominating Committee Selections: Candidates notified of selection status post-interview
  • Slate of Candidates Announced: November 17, 2025
  • Meet the Candidates Night: January 12, 2026
  • Election Period: January 15, 2026 – February 14, 2026
  • Announcement of Elected 2026 Candidates: February 14, 2026

-Submitted by Cindy O’Neill, Nominating Committee Chair

Community Education: Living on the Marsh at Seabrook Island

On By SIPOAIn Engineering, Environmental, Intern Program

While Seabrook Island is often recognized for its beachfront charm, a significant number of residents actually live along the island’s vibrant marsh front. Marsh-front living offers unique opportunities as well as specific environmental challenges.

As part of this summer’s SIPOA Engineering Internship Program, we developed an educational resource tailored specifically for marsh-front homeowners. A Homeowners’ Guide to Living on the Marsh on Seabrook Island is a comprehensive StoryMap designed to inform and support residents in understanding and managing life along the marsh.

The guide covers key topics such as:

  • Salt marsh zonation
  • Salt marsh ecology
  • Tidal flooding and storm surge
  • Shoreline protection alternatives
  • Adapting to tidal channel migration
  • Backyard buffers and marsh vegetation management

The StoryMap features local photography, time-lapse aerial imagery, and interactive maps to illustrate these concepts in a clear, engaging format. Its user-friendly design provides accessible, practical guidance for living adjacent to a dynamic marsh ecosystem.

By embracing sustainable marsh-front management practices, residents can contribute to a more resilient community—particularly in response to coastal storms and changing environmental conditions.

Feel free to contact me at shirsch@sipoa.org with questions or comments.