CEO Marc Frey, Frey MediaBefore we look forward, we must look back.
Before formulating a new vision we must capture the essence of what defines us.

What is the intangible essence of our island?

Maybe it helps to understand that its material existence relies on the force of nature itself. The land where we build our homes and businesses was under sea level for millions of years. In contrast, 15,000 years ago the sea level was 400 feet lower than it is today, and our land was miles from the ocean.

Maybe it helps to understand that it is young. Only about 4,000 years ago the sea level rose to its present level, and the “modern” development of the island only goes back a little over 50 years.

Maybe it helps to understand that tides dictate the rhythm of natural life, just like the tides of tourists fill and empty our streets with life.

Maybe it helps to understand that others have been here before us — Paleo-Indians, European explorers, plantation owners, union troops, Gullah native islanders — and that we might be well served to behave like temporary stewards of this land. Maybe it helps to explore what attracted us to the island in the first place.

Was it the promise of getting away from it all? Was it the promise to spend time in a simpler place where one could relax and reconnect with ourselves? Was it the discovery that there is a place where nature was still intact? Was it our sense of wonder stimulated by the beauty of the exotic vegetation?  Did the ability to observe wildlife cater to our need for exploration? Was it the experience that “quiet” can be a wonderful, fulfilling state of mind? Was it our sense of survival signaling to us that this is a safe place? Was it our encounter with other islanders that made us feel welcome?

We might talk to our friends about the miles of beaches, the sunsets over the bay or the lush golf courses, but maybe the real reasons that attracted us here are not rational after all. It may be our subconscious telling us that this is a place where man and nature live in harmony, a place where a different type of planning and foresight made this island feel purposeful and unlike any other place on earth.

No vision will ever be perfect, no plan will ever be complete. A core set of values will guide us in making the right decisions as we embark on defining and building the next chapter of history of Hilton Head Island. Here is a first attempt to put words on paper:

  • Let us respect that nature was here before us and that man should live in harmony with his surroundings.
  • Let us recognize what makes this a unique place and community and continue to foster these qualities relentlessly by working together for the greater good of all.
  • Let us agree that without a vision and a road map we will not be able to optimize our natural and man-made assets.
  • Let us embrace the diversity of our ecosystems and the cultural diversity of our residents.
  • Let us recognize that often less is more, but that sometimes more might offer a better solution.
  • Let us strive for an abundant and balanced place where visitors and residents can fulfill their pursuit of happiness with ease.
  • Let us be a model for other communities to follow, not just in the way we plan, but also in the way we live together.

Maybe it helps to understand that our island is no longer what it was, and that what it will be has yet to be defined. This creates both a need and presents an enormous opportunity.

Onwards!