Category: SIPOA

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.

Fins, Flippers & Feathers Recap – 2025

On By SIPOAIn Communications, Community Events, Engineering, SIPOA, Town of Seabrook Island

On May 9th, friends and neighbors gathered to celebrate the completion of a new wildlife boardwalk signage project – an initiative that brings education, conservation, and community engagement together in a meaningful way.

Susan Culler Soden gave a presentation to those in attendance.

This project would not have been possible without the dedication, hard work, and passion of so many individuals. First and foremost, I want to express my deepest gratitude to our incredible committee, the driving force behind this initiative: Brandy Embrey Graphic Design & TP; Mark Andrews, Shorebird Stewards and Seabrook Island Birders; Cindy O’Neill, SIPOA Board Member and I for the Lowcountry Marine Mammal Network. Special thanks goes to Camp Duquet of SCDNR for the background files used on all the signs. Your commitment, enthusiasm, and expertise have brought this vision to life, ensuring that every detail was carefully planned and executed for the benefit of our community and the natural world we cherish.

What began as a few individuals asking how the worn out wildlife boardwalk signs could be replaced, turned into a project that eventually involved three Seabrook Island wildlife groups working together with the Town of Seabrook Island and the Seabrook Island Property Owners Association to finance, design, create and install three new signs on three separate boardwalks – Boardwalks 1, 7 and 9. A rough estimate of individuals directly involved in the project is 47 – it TRULY took a village!

Susan thanked all of the organization representatives who helped with bringing this project to fruition:

TOSI (12 representatives)

  • Mayor Bruce Kleinman
  • Community Promotion & Engagement Committee
  • Environment & Wildlife Committee
  • Abby Grooms, Communications & Events Manager

SIPOA (20+ representatives)

  • Heather Paton, Executive Director, for acting as our banker
  • Cindy O’Neill and Tom Johnson, SIPOA board members. A special shout-out to Tom Johnson for getting us through the State permitting process.
  • Environmental Committee
  • Steve Hirsch, Director of Engineering & Facilities Management, and his maintenance crew for their guidance through the process and for installing the signs.
  • Rhiannon Schalaudek and Kristen Riedmayer, SIPOA Communications
  • Joyce Phillips, Amenities & Activities Committee

Lowcountry Marine Mammal Network

  • Laura Rust, Founder & Executive Director

Turtle Patrol (4 representatives)

  • Jane Magioncalda, SCDNR permit holder & head
  • Bill Nelson, Treasurer
  • Brandy Embrey
  • Wendy Holschuh

Seabrook Island Birders (3 representatives)

  • Bob Mercer, President
  • Claudia Porter, Treasurer
  • Gina Sanders, Communications

A special thanks goes to our talented photographers, who have captured the essence of our local wildlife and with such brilliance. Our committee knew that great photographs of our Seabrook Island wildlife were a critical element. Your stunning images bring life to our signs, transforming them into powerful tools for education and appreciation. Because of you, visitors will not only read about the beauty of Seabrook Island, they will see it in its most breathtaking form.

Our photographers are: Mark Andrews, Glen Cox, Jeff Davis, Joseph Ficarra, Maureen Healy, Patricia Schaeffer, and Susan Culler Soden.

Together, we have created something truly special – a place where people can learn and connect with nature in ways that inspire and inform. These signs are more than just structures; they are a testament to the power of collaboration and community spirit.

So today, let us celebrate not only the completion of this project, but also the incredible people who made it happen. Thank you all for your hard work, passion, and dedication. You have helped build something that will serve as a lasting reminder of the importance of conservation, education, and collaboration within our community.

Submitted by Susan Culler Soden
Photos by Jeff Davis

Amenity Access Transition & New App Launch- 5/30/25

On By SIPOAIn Seabrook Island Club, SIPOA

SIPOA is replacing facility access hardware on 6/2 and 6/3 to integrate with the Seabrook Island Club NorthStar Software. Please review the schedule below for important updates to Lake House and Oyster Catcher Pool access.

Lake House Access Schedule

  • Monday: No before/after-hours access due to the installation of new entry readers.
  • Tuesday: Before/after-hours access resumes.
  • Wednesday: Normal access resumes using your QR code.

Oyster Catcher Pool Access Schedule

  • Tuesday: Entry readers will be replaced.
  • Wednesday: Normal access resumes using your QR code.

New App Now Available: “Seabrook Island Club”

Early access to the new Northstar app is available starting today. The app is used by Property Owner Club Members and Non Club Member Property Owners. The full experience launches on Saturday, June 1st, but you can begin exploring now.

What You Can Do Today:

  • Log in and view your profile.
  • Access your personal QR code for amenity entry.
  • Get familiar with the app’s features and layouts.

How To Get the App: Search “Seabrook Island Club” in the Google Play Store or Apple App Store and download the app. Login Info:

  • Username: Your Member Number (Club Members only) or POA ID # (Non Club Member Property Owners).
  • Password: Your last name in lowercase (no spaces or special characters)
    You’ll have the option to change your password after your first login.

Where to Find the App: Search for Seabrook Island Club in both the Google Play Store and Apple App Store, and download the app to get started!

Scan the QR codes below to be directed to the app store.

GOOGLE PLAY
APPLE STORE

If you have questions regarding the app, please contact the Amenity Office at amenitycards@seabrookisland.com.

Thank you for your patience and cooperation!

Amenity Access Update- 5/23/25

On By SIPOAIn Seabrook Island Club, SIPOA

SIPOA will be transitioning from physical amenity cards to a more convenient QR code system, accessible through the Northstar App. Each Property Owner will receive a unique QR code via the Northstar app, which will allow entry to SIPOA-managed facilities. For residents who do not use a digital device, a new physical access card will be available upon request to ensure a smooth transition for everyone.

We will be sharing a detailed update next week with instructions and key information to help you prepare. In the meantime, please stay informed by monitoring the SIPOA weekly eblast, Palmetto Pulse, sipoa.org, and other official communications. Seabrook Island Club (SIC) members will receive updates through SIC communication channels.

Please note: This upgrade applies only to pedestrian gate access at SIPOA facilities. It will not impact your current access through the SIPOA vehicle gates.

Thank you for your cooperation as we continue working to enhance the convenience of our community amenities.

Amenity Access Upgrade – 5/16/25

On By SIPOAIn Seabrook Island Club, SIPOA

We are pleased to announce an upcoming upgrade to the access system for The Lake House and Community Center. SIPOA will be transitioning from physical amenity cards to a more convenient QR code system, accessible through the Northstar App.

Each resident will be issued a unique QR code via the app, which will allow entry to SIPOA-managed facilities. For those who do not use a digital device, a new physical access card will still be available upon request to ensure everyone can transition smoothly.

To support a seamless rollout, we will be providing additional updates in the coming weeks. Please stay informed by monitoring the SIPOA weekly eblast, Palmetto Pulse, sipoa.org, and other official communications. Seabrook Island Club (SIC) members will receive updates through SIC communication channels.

Please note: This upgrade applies only to pedestrian gate access at SIPOA facilities. It will not impact your current access through the SIPOA vehicle gates.

We appreciate your cooperation as we work to enhance the security and convenience of our community amenities.

SIPOA Facility Gate Access Upgrades are Coming

On By SIPOAIn Seabrook Island Club, SIPOA

Estimated Date: June 1, 2025

Watch for announcements regarding improvements to Lake House and Community Center gate access. Access to these gates will transition from Amenity Cards to QR codes.

Updates will be provided as soon as possible. Please monitor the SIPOA weekly eblast, Palmetto Pulse, sipoa.org, and other communications. Seabrook Island Club (SIC) members will also be receiving updates via SIC communications.

This upgrade is for facility gates ONLY. This will not affect your access through the SIPOA vehicle gates.