Seabrook Island Passes 'Island One' Referendum: Vote Ensures Island-wide Capital Improvements, Strengthening of Property Values, Unified Community Going Forward

Overwhelming Support for 'Community Club' Sets Future Planning For Seabrook Island In Motion

Charleston, SC (PRWEB) January 14, 2005 -- Following a two-thirds majority vote of residents in favor of Island One," Seabrook Islands unique new mandatory community club membership concept , the leaders of the islands three governing bodies—the Property Owners Association, Club at Seabrook Island and the Town—have developed an aggressive plan for Seabrooks future.

The recent passage of Island One" was the critical step needed to help unify long-term capital planning efforts; build a strong sense of community; and create financial stability for the island," said Larry Blasch, President of the Seabrook Island Property Owners Association. This overwhelming show of support, coupled with our recent decision to embark on a new strategic, island-wide marketing effort, signals a new day for Seabrook Island. Its terrifically exciting to have everyone pulling in the same direction."

Approval of Island One means all new property owners at Seabrook Island as of January 1, 2005 will become members of the Club at Seabrook Island. The newly established entry level membership begins at $6,000 and levels increase based on desired use of the Club, its amenities and facilities. According to Bill Mowat, President of the Club at Seabrook Island, the benefits will be significant. Over the years, this will help significantly with our capital improvement budget, and the consistent flow of new members helps us in providing more comprehensive long-term planning," says Mowat.

Buyers, especially the flood of new Baby Boomer retirees and pre-retirees, expect first-class amenities, social and cultural programs," says Joe Salvo, broker in charge at Seabrook Island Realty. A healthy, vibrant Club assures these buyers an upscale, residential community that their amenities and property values will only continue to improve.

This years record real estate sales are expected to continue. The new members will contribute to a continued strong financial position," says Salvo. Updating the Seabrook brand through world class marketing and public relations will open a lot of eyes to Seabrooks unique combination of total residential privacy in an oceanfront setting, peaceful natural beauty and first class amenities, all in Charlestons backyard."

In the long term, as a unified island, we are in much stronger position to jointly work on improving all Seabrook Island facilities, including our Oceanfront Beach Club, the Island House Golf Clubhouse, Racquet Club, pools, and restaurant facilities."

Blasch says the Seabrook Island Property Owners Association initiated research into the community club concept about three years ago, and studied its successful implementation in various other communities throughout the Southeast. Seabrook will be the first to adopt the concept in the Charleston area. We recognized that this was the best way for Seabrook to preserve property values and our quality of life in the future."

In addition to these efforts, the islands governing bodies also approved new marketing initiatives intended to freshen and more effectively market the islands unity, beauty, and uniqueness. The rebranding effort is already underway and includes a new creative look, logo and public relations plan.

Seabrook Island Mayor John DuBois supports the efforts. Seabrook Island has always been a wonderful place to live and visit. We are a truly unified, residential community with the resources and quality of life needed to grow and prosper long into the future. Im proud to be part of this strong team."

Located on the southern coast of historic Charleston, South Carolina, Seabrook Island has long been acknowledged as one of South Carolinas most beautiful barrier islands. Seabrook is home to one of the states widest beaches, and The Club at Seabrook Islands golf courses have been designated as the first fully certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary in South Carolina. Nationally recognized tennis facilities and a full service equestrian center add to the unique nature of the island.

Media Contact:
James Briggs
Rawle Murdy Associates, Inc.
(843) 577-7327
jbriggs@RawleMurdy.com

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