Group Health Insurance Agent in Folly Beach, SC
If you're an employer dedicated to attracting and retaining talent or boosting employee productivity, offering a valuable health benefit is important. After all, accidents happen every day. And then, out of nowhere, you're sideswiped by another motorist. Having great health insurance coverage is essential in such scenarios. That's especially true in South Carolina, where group health insurance stands out as a key consideration for businesses. Not only does a comprehensive insurance plan safeguard the health and wellness of your employees, but it also plays a key role in drawing in and keeping top talent.
While you might be most familiar with traditional group health plans, making that your go-to option may not always be the best fit for your organization in today's ever-evolving healthcare landscape. How can you determine if it's truly the right choice for your business? If you've been asking yourself that question, you're not alone. Many small businesses are in need of a group health insurance agency in Folly Beach, SC, to help them weigh their options. That's where working with Grey Cardinal Insurance Group starts to make a lot of sense.
Your Partner for Group Health Insurance Plans for Small Business
At Grey Cardinal Insurance Group, we understand the importance of providing flexible, personalized, comprehensive, and cost-effective health benefits. Our knowledgeable group health insurance agents are ready to help you assess your needs and figure out the best group health plan options for your employees and your business.
Whether you're looking to implement traditional group health insurance policies or you're curious about ICHRA, Grey Cardinal Insurance Group is the name you can trust when it's time to navigate the complexities of employee benefits. Let's work hand-in-hand to create a health-benefits solution that empowers you, your business, and your employees.
What are the Advantages of Having Group Health Insurance for Small Business in Folly Beach, SC?
At Grey Cardinal Insurance Group, one of the first questions we answer for our clients usually centers around the benefits of having group health insurance. As it turns out, investing in group health insurance for your company provides you with many benefits, including:
Insurance Costs for Employees
Investing in a group health insurance policy for your business can significantly lower your insurance premiums. When the costs are divided between the business and employees, health insurance is also more affordable for your team.
More Insurance Options to Choose From
With group health insurance, your employees will enjoy increased access to a wider range of health insurance options due to reduced costs. With employers partially funding group health insurance, employees will find it easier to afford the coverage they require.
Reduced Tax Burden
Small businesses can take advantage of a valuable health care tax credit when they provide group health insurance to their employees. This tax credit serves as a financial incentive, making it more affordable for small business owners to offer essential health coverage. Employers also have the opportunity to deduct the expenses associated with group health insurance premiums from their taxable income. This deduction can significantly lower their overall tax liability at the end of the year, ultimately contributing to improved financial stability for the business.
Employee Retention and Recruitment
A recent study conducted by MetLife reveals that an attractive benefits package significantly influences employees' decisions to remain with their current employer or seek opportunities elsewhere. Among the various benefits, health insurance stands out as one of the most essential offerings that employees actively anticipate from their employers. This expectation underscores the vital role that comprehensive health coverage plays in employee satisfaction and retention in the workforce.
Group Health Insurance 101
What are group health insurance plans for small businesses? Group health insurance plans provide health coverage benefits to a specific group of individuals, usually employees of a company or organization. According to the Social Security Administration (SSA), a group health plan (GHP) is associated with current employment. Employers with 20 or more employees are also required by law to offer their current workers and their spouses aged 65 or older the same GHP benefits, regardless of their age.
To better understand group health plans or group health insurance policies, it's useful to consider how they differ from individual health insurance. Individuals can apply to enroll in marketplace insurance providers for individual health plans. In contrast, group health plans are tailored specifically for the members of that group. For businesses, these health plans are often referred to as employer-based or employer-sponsored coverage.
How Does Group Health Insurance Work in South Carolina?
A group health insurance plan is typically coordinated with the help of a group health insurance agent in Folly Beach, SC, and is sponsored and purchased by employers for their businesses. During the enrollment period, employees or group members can sign up for the plan. They also have the option to add eligible spouses and dependents, usually at an additional cost. The specifics of the plans can differ in terms of coverage levels, costs, number of participants, and the overall health of the members. Generally, a group with lower health risks tends to enjoy lower premiums.
Employees' contributions toward their premiums are deducted from their paychecks before taxes, making it a more cost-effective option. When a member of the group health plan visits a healthcare provider, the provider submits a claim to the insurance company, which then reimburses them according to the plan's coverage. Any remaining costs are paid out-of-pocket by the member, contributing towards their deductible or out-of-pocket maximum.
Group Health Insurance Options in South Carolina
Like the menu at Alfredo's On Folly in Folly Beach, SC, employers have a litany of options to choose from when it comes to group health insurance plans in The Palmetto State. With these different types of group insurance, employers can usually find a health plan that aligns with both their budget and the specific benefits they want to offer. Among the most popular choices are health maintenance organizations (HMOs) and preferred provider organizations (PPOs).
High-deductible plans serve as another option. Employers can also consider self-funded plans, where employees pay their premiums directly to the employer. In this arrangement, the employer takes on the financial responsibility for all health care claims once the employee meets their health plan deductible and out-of-pocket maximum.
Check out this group health insurance plan comparison in Folly Beach, SC:
Fully Insured Group Health Insurance Plans
One of the most traditional options for group health insurance is the fully insured plan. Under this arrangement, your company pays a fixed premium to your insurance carrier annually, based on the number of employees participating in the coverage. The only instances that will cause your payment to change during the year are if an employee opts out or if there are fluctuations in the number of participants. The insurance carrier collects all premiums and handles any healthcare claims as per the policy you selected, while employees are responsible for any applicable deductibles or co-payments.
Level-Funded Group Health Insurance Plans
Level-funded plans, often referred to as partially self-funded plans, have been gaining traction among employers. Although these plans involve taking on more risk than fully insured options, they typically offer a more cost-effective alternative while still ensuring financial predictability. Level-funded plans can also provide greater flexibility in plan design compared to fully insured plans. You can think of them as a balanced option that bridges the gap between fully insured and self-funded plans. At Grey Cardinal Insurance Group, your group health insurance agent will walk you through the pros and cons of level-funded plans to help you decide whether they're right for your business and employees or not.
Self-Funded Group Health Insurance Plans
Self-funded plans have traditionally been favored by large companies, but they're gaining traction among smaller businesses as well. In a self-funded arrangement, employers take on the full responsibility for funding and managing the health insurance plan. While this might seem like a disadvantage, these plans often offer more affordable premium rates and greater control over the specifics of coverage compared to fully insured or level-funded options.
What Do Group Health Insurance Plans for Small Business in Folly Beach, SC Cover?
Group health insurance plans can differ significantly, but they generally cover a portion or all of the costs associated with medical care. This includes expenses for physician visits, longer stays at facilities such as Indigo Hall Assisted Living and Memory Care, approved inpatient and outpatient procedures, preventive care, prescriptions, and therapeutic treatments like physical and occupational therapy. They also cover emergency care, such as visits to the emergency room or urgent care centers. It's important for members to reach out to their health insurance providers to understand the specifics of what their plan covers and what their financial responsibilities are for both necessary and elective procedures.
Some group health insurance providers have also broadened their offerings to include mental health services and alternative treatments. Employers can further support their employees by providing extra coverage options, such as health savings accounts (HSAs) or health reimbursement arrangements, which can help alleviate some financial burdens.
Group Health Insurance Plans for Small Businesses vs. Individual Health Insurance Plans
When comparing individual and group health insurance, several key differences emerge. Like a group health plan, individual insurance covers either a single person or a family. However, the main distinction lies in how these plans are obtained: individual plans are purchased directly by the individual from an insurance provider or through a government marketplace, making the individual responsible for the total cost of their premiums. In contrast, group health plans are often facilitated by a group health insurance agent and share premium costs between the employee and employer.
Because group health insurance covers multiple people, the employer often has more leverage when negotiating premiums and benefits. However, all participants receive the same plan. On the other hand, individual healthcare plans can be tailored to suit a person's specific needs and budget, allowing for greater personalization.
Another important difference is the underwriting process for each type of plan. In individual plans, premiums may be higher for those with health risk factors and existing conditions if they choose not to purchase through a marketplace. Conversely, group insurance offers coverage at the same price for all employees, even those with pre-existing conditions. Individual health plans can also be portable, meaning they remain with the individual if they change jobs. This isn't the case with employer-sponsored plans; once an employee leaves, they must either find new coverage or continue their existing policy through COBRA (Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act).
Why Work with a Local Group Health Insurance Agent in Folly Beach, SC?
In today's marketplace, many small business owners go with franchise or "big name" agencies to find group health insurance. While not wrong, this course of action can end up costing your company - and not only from a financial point of view. Working with a local group health insurance agency can provide you with many benefits that big-box options can't provide. What are they, you might be asking? Let's dig in and find out why it's always best to search for "local group health insurance agency near me."
What Do Local Group Health Insurance Agents Actually Do?
A local group health insurance agent or broker - like those from Grey Cardinal Insurance Group - pulls on years of experience and knowledge to give you in-depth guidance centered around your group health insurance needs.
For a business owner, that includes audits on insurance benefits, group insurance plan recommendations for your employees, meeting with those employees to talk about additional benefits they need, and much more. For example, if you need to add benefits like vision, dental, or life insurance to your enrollment options, a group health insurance agent can walk you through your choices and the process as a whole.
But what about if you're just getting started? Navigating the often-complex landscape of health insurance can be particularly challenging for small business owners in such circumstances. A survey conducted by United Healthcare Consumer Sentiment revealed that only 7% of consumers could accurately explain common health insurance terms. That's why, at Grey Cardinal Insurance Group, we're committed to providing education for both you and your employees during enrollment meetings. Like Morris Island Lighthouse in Folly Beach, SC, we stand tall for you and your business when you need us most.
Personalized Support
One of the biggest reasons to choose a local agent is the ability to customize your plan. No two group health insurance plans are exactly the same, and with ongoing changes in healthcare regulations, it can be challenging to understand the options available to you.
So, what can businesses do to tackle this challenge? The answer lies in partnering with a local health insurance agent in Folly Beach, SC.
At Grey Cardinal Insurance Group locations, we prioritize listening to your needs and crafting a tailored plan that benefits both your business and your employees. During open enrollment, we take the time to meet with you and engage with your team to better understand the benefits they're looking for. This hands-on approach ensures that employees have direct access to our staff for any questions or concerns they may have. This level of support is something you simply won't find with large corporate insurance firms.
On-Call When You Need Them
Engaging a local health insurance agent offers numerous advantages, particularly in terms of access to information and support. Local group health insurance agents are readily available to answer any inquiries that may arise. For instance, when a small business owner wishes to modify their benefits packages, they can easily reach out to a local agent to discuss potential adjustments. The agent can provide guidance in developing a well-structured and appropriate employee benefits package that reflects employee feedback. This collaborative approach can enhance employee satisfaction and improve the overall management of benefits options.
Exceptional Customer Service
This point builds off the last point about local agents being on-call when you need them. Would you rather talk to a real person who you've spoken to before or an automated service when you have questions about your group health insurance? Pressing # to get help with one issue and then being transferred for help and starting the process over is very tedious.
With a local group insurance agent by your side, you'll have peace of mind knowing you'll have quick, quality customer service when you need it, and from a real person, too. If you need to submit a claim, your agent will be able to explain your coverage and options and walk you through the steps to complete your claim.
At Grey Cardinal Insurance Group, our health insurance agents live in the same communities you do, so they know what you are going through or dealing with and are likely already on top of it for you. With that added peace of mind, you can focus more clearly on the core aspects of your business.
A Business Group Health Insurance Agency in Folly Beach, SC, You Can Trust
No matter which group health insurance policy you decide on, Grey Cardinal Insurance Group is here to support you. Our experienced agents will collaborate closely with you to understand your needs and find the best health plan options for your business and employees. Reach out to us today to explore your small business group insurance options and get a quote.
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Latest News in Folly Beach, SC
How to plan your summer vacation to South Carolina’s Sea Islands
Jesse Scotthttps://www.lonelyplanet.com/articles/plan-your-vacation-to-south-carolina-sea-islands
Amid inland South Carolina's year-round bliss – in Charleston, Columbia and Greenville – the state’s shoreline particularly pops during the summertime.South of Myrtle Beach and stretching to the ...
Amid inland South Carolina's year-round bliss – in Charleston, Columbia and Greenville – the state’s shoreline particularly pops during the summertime.
South of Myrtle Beach and stretching to the Georgia state line where Savannah awaits, you’ll find South Carolina's Sea Islands, a stretch of islands each with their own unique ambiance and summer flair.
Your options include the family-friendly and golf haven of Hilton Head, the historic downtown of Beaufort and more secluded options for bird-watching and fishing galore. As you finalize your Palmetto State summer itinerary, there are some key logistical must-knows to truly soak it all in. Here’s the scoop on South Carolina's Sea Islands.
Step 1: Pick a home base
Vibes: Consider this your island destination for staying occupied yet tranquil. Hilton Head is renowned for white-sand bliss, a small-town core and big-time resorts. This is the best option for a family vacation, too, with plenty of quirky activities spanning zip-lining its marshes to go-kart tracks.
Do: Hilton Head is a golfing destination with nearly 30 courses island-wide. Sea Pines Resort is a top pick, with three courses within its confines, including Harbour Town, which hosts the PGA Tour’s RBC Heritage tournament. Otherwise, plop on a beach – Coligny Beach is fully equipped with restrooms, gazebos, and benches for a seamless experience.
Stay: The Sweetgrass Inn at Hilton Head Health puts wellness front and center with daily health retreats, nutrition workshops, and, for longer stays, a weight loss track, if desired. Beach House is laid-back, with an on-site tiki hut and renovated pool.
Eat: Hit Skull Creek Boathouse for a sunset and, within its on-site Dive Bar space, fresh sushi selections. Nectar Farm Kitchen has southern coastal fare down to an art, with sweet potato pancakes and hearty-portioned chicken and waffles.
Vibes: A 20-minute drive south of Charleston, this is where residents of “the Holy City” head to unwind in the summer. The southern hospitality and general friendliness of Charleston oozes into its beachy neighbor, where locals trade in their bowties and pastel dresses for swim trunks and swimsuits. Its ocean’s edge is dotted with surf shops – like McKevlin’s and Ocean Surf Shop – with a spot known as the Washout being where veteran surfers flock for swells.
Do: For surfing newbies, take a lesson with local mainstays like Isla Surf School or Shaka Surf School, the latter of which hosts kids' summer camps and a surf and yoga class for women. Folly Beach has a unique saltwater creek and coastal marsh landscape – you can learn all about it and hunt for some shark teeth along the way with a Charleston Outdoor Adventures eco tour.
Stay: For views, each room at the Tides Folly Beach comes with a view of the Atlantic Ocean. Its on-site BLU Beach Bar & Grill has a tiki bar and one-of-a-kind vistas of the Folly Beach Pier, which juts into the ocean next door. Regatta Inn is the island’s luxe bed-and-breakfast option, with a daily breakfast spread and golf cart shuttle to the beach.
Eat: Folly Beach is loaded with beach bars with fare and booze that run the full spectrum of no-frills to fancy. Lowlife Bar has a daily brunch from 10am to 3pm with a memorable Maryland-style crab cake, chicken and waffles, and a pimento cheese plate. Three blocks off the beach, Jack of Cup Saloons serves up craft brews and sake with a variety of Indian and Asian-inspired dishes.
Vibes: Approximately 50 miles southeast of Charleston, this island is dotted with beachside rentals on stilts, stately plantation abodes, and stunning beaches. This is a more relaxed vibe compared to Hilton Head or Folly Beach, with plenty of quirky entertaining things to keep you occupied. An example – and not for the faint of heart – is the Edisto Island Serpentarium, with habitats for a variety of snakes, alligators, and turtles.
Do: Edisto Beach State Park is arguably the hot spot for collecting shells in the state. Botany Bay is a marshy, bird-watching paradise where shorebirds, wild turkeys, and egrets abound. This is a quiet spot for a sunset cruise, too, with Botany Bay Ecotours being a go-to operator.
Stay: Vacation rentals are the norm here. A conglomerate of rentals owned by Wyndham on the southwestern tip of the island offers the most options in a singular place. For golfers, there is a course – the Plantation Course – in the middle of the complex.
Eat: Cute and homegrown are the general culinary vibes on the island. McConkey’s Jungle Shack serves up wings, burgers, wild rum punch concoctions, and a famed local sweet tea. Sea Cow Eatery is an intimate diner that’s open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner (minus Monday, when it closes at 2pm). Regardless of what time of day it is, keep an eye on its ever-changing homemade pie selections.
Step 2: Book your accommodations
Vacation rentals abound along South Carolina’s coast. In general, individual owners or operating entities open up summer reservations either a year in advance or six months in advance, though it may vary. VRBO, Airbnb and HomeToGo are statewide favorites for rentals. Additionally, you may want to check the state’s tourism website for additional sanctioned options as well as local chambers of commerce.
Across the board on South Carolina’s sea islands, there are options for plopping at a resort, within a vacation home, or at a bed and breakfast and making memories solely on-property. If you’re looking to keep antsy guests or kids occupied, Hilton Head boasts the most things to do. Disney’s Hilton Head Island Resort is perhaps the best of all worlds – quietly tucked on the northern edge of the island, exuding a casual vibe with a water slide and within minutes of shopping at Shelter Cove Harbour.
Step 3: Plan your days
Hilton Head is considered a fishing utopia, where spot-tailed trout, flounder, grouper, and even sharks abound. Hilton Head is one of the largest breeding grounds for sharks on the East Coast, and yes, you can fish for them, too. You’ll need to charter a fishing boat – ideally with a captain, too, to make it seamless – and for that FishingBooker is trusted and up-to-date.
Beyond the islands, three city visits may be easily pinned to any South Carolina sea islands itinerary. Savannah, Georgia, is within a 45-minute drive of Hilton Head Island – sauntering through its brick public squares and along its boutique-filled main drag, Broughton Street, is a must. Charleston – closest to Folly Beach – is a cobblestone street wonderland, with a waterfront park overlooking Charleston Harbor and Fort Sumter making for a city-meets-tranquil reprieve. Beaufort – located between Hilton Head and Edisto – is on Port Royal Island and has a historic district worthy of a day trip. Its museum selections span the quirky (check out the Kazoobie Kazoo Factory) to the reflective – the Beaufort History Museum showcases more than 500 years of history with exhibits on plantation culture, the Spanish American War, and more.
Step 4: Choose the best places to eat in South Carolina’s Sea Islands
In Hilton Head, the blue crab reigns supreme – crack some at Hudson’s Seafood House on the Docks, with vistas of Port Royal Sound and periodic live music. Otherwise, fresh seafood is the way to go along the coast with shrimp and grits, a Lowcountry boil and seafood salad being menu norms.
The island towns are also home to some memorable mom-and-pop grocery stores with curated, South Carolina-bred items. Bert’s Market on Folly Beach has it all; stop by for pimento cheese, boiled peanuts, and a visit to the deli counter. Palmetto Dunes General Store on Hilton Head Island is a haven for fresh fried chicken and soft-serve ice cream, among other grocery staples.
Step 5: Getting there
Two international airports serve as home bases for journeys to these parts. Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport is within a 45-minute drive of Hilton Head and more remote adventures in Daufuskie Island. Charleston International Airport is within 30 minutes of Folly Beach and approximately 2 hours north of Hilton Head. Hilton Head Island Airport also offers select domestic flights.
For train travel, Amtrak has a major station in Charleston, with a smaller operation in Yemassee, South Carolina – a taxi ride from the train station to the islands is the seamless option from there.
Step 6: What to pack
Check ahead of time to see what your hotel or vacation rental supplies in terms of beach items – they can vary drastically. Depending on what is provided and how much you’d like to pack, it may be wise to bring a cooler, snorkeling gear, goggles, water sports gear, and water floats with you. Otherwise, during the summer months, count on using sunscreen, sunglasses, sun protective clothing, sandals and – in swampy areas – insect repellant, daily. Souvenir shops sell all of the aforementioned, but count on paying a premium.
Move Over Charleston! Travelers Are Raving About These 7 South Carolina Beaches
Sam Searshttps://www.traveloffpath.com/move-over-charleston-travelers-are-raving-about-these-7-south-carolina-beaches/
Beach season is still in full force, and you don't have to go to California or Florida or put your passport to use in Cancun to enjoy an awesome beach vacation.Florida seems to steal most of the glory in the South, with Gulf Shores not far behind, but there are more ...
Beach season is still in full force, and you don't have to go to California or Florida or put your passport to use in Cancun to enjoy an awesome beach vacation.
Florida seems to steal most of the glory in the South, with Gulf Shores not far behind, but there are more southern coastal destinations well worth a visit.
One of those being South Carolina.
While the historic, charming city of Charleston has become one of the trendiest getaways in the nation, it's the state's beaches that travelers are raving about this summer.
According to Southern Living, these are the top 6 beaches in South Carolina. Plus, stick around to the end to the end for a bonus #7, our editor's top pick!
Edisto Island is a barrier island nearly 40 miles from Charleston.
Definitely not a household name, locals have begun to shine a light on this beautiful beach for its raw, untouched appeal.
Away from the hustle and bustle of more popular beaches, Edisto is perfect for a relaxing getaway for all ages and even includes multiple golf courses.
Go camping, hiking, biking, or lounging in the summer sun away from the crowds.
Many visitors love spending an extended time on the island's State Park by booking a cozy cabin with rates beginning at $185 in August.
One of the bigger names in South Carolina, Hilton Head sees its fair share of crowds, unlike Edisto.
Offering more of what you'd expect from a popular beach town, such as trendy shops, restaurants, and prime hotel real estate along the scenic beachfront, there's never a dull moment on Hilton Head Island.
Not only does this lovely island have 12 miles of beaches, the area is surrounded by waterways made for exploring.
Rent a kayak, take a boat tour, or even go dolphin-watching. Check out picturesque Harbour Town to tick off all these boxes.
Of course, beaches are the main draw at the end of the day. Most tourists agree Coligny Beach is the place to be with ‘beautiful sand dunes' and ‘beautiful views'.
Maybe not a recognized nation, but Isle of Palms is still a local's favorite retreat despite being relatively popular since the 1970's, with classic resorts standing the test of time like Wild Dunes.
Adding to the allure, it's super easy to access as it's only 30 minutes from Charleston.
Sandwiched between the vast Atlantic and the South's standard marshlands, the setting couldn't be prettier.
If there's one thing to know about visiting the Isle of Palms, it's to be prepared to stay put.
The barrier island is only 7 miles long and 1 mile wide, perfect for lovely strolls along the beach.
There's famous Myrtle Beach…and then there's North Myrtle Beach, a whole different world according to vacationers.
In fact, they are 30 minutes apart, technically. North Myrtle offers less razzmatazz for those who prefer similar amenities without the ‘touristy' vibes.
You know, like a giant Ferris wheel on the beach and Ripley's Believe It or Not “museums”. Myrtle Beach isn't known for being outrageously expensive, but North Myrtle tends to offer even more savings across the board.
Check out popular Barefoot Landing for the best eats, shopping and family-friendly fun such as live music.
Kiawah Island is an outdoor lover's dream. Set between the scenic Kiawah River and gorgeous views of the Atlantic Ocean, visitors have their choice on how to spend their time in nature.
Most choose to hit the sand at Beachwalker Park, the only public beach access here, but the area's 30 miles of convenient biking and hiking trails are second best weaving through South Carolina's beautiful ecosystems.
That is if you choose to leave the posh digs of the immaculate beachfront hotel, The Sanctuary.
Best of all, Kiawah is secluded, unlike, say, Myrtle Beach, where there is virtually no privacy.
Tip: there are only 150 parking spaces that usually fill up in summer months by 10:30am
One of the closest beaches to Charleston is also the best! Taking the #1 spot, this pretty beach just 12 miles away.
Locals have dubbed this beach “the edge of America”, which doesn't quite add up considering it neighbors Kiawah Island, but hey, we'll go with it.
The only thing edgy about it may be the cash-only dive bars. Here, nobody takes themselves too seriously, which is why locals love this place to escape the 9-5 grind with epic surf spots and cozy stays like Regatta Inn, perched waterfront with stunning coastal views.
Hello dear readers! Tyler here, Managing Editor and Travel Off Path's #1 reader ????.
I couldn't let this list come out without raving about another incredible beach in South Carolina, because I literally just left!
The picture above was taken just three days ago at my favorite destination in South Carolina – Fripp Island. (And so was the first photo of the article)
I have been going to Fripp Island every year for about 6 years and will keep going back for many years to come. I always recommend it to family and friends.
Here are some of the things I love most:
I look forward to this trip every single year and can't recommend checking it out enough! If you ever want some tips, always feel free to reach out to me here or on Instagram.
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Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
Folly Beach leaders narrowing down potential affordable housing options
Carlie Bakerhttps://www.live5news.com/2025/03/03/folly-beach-leaders-narrowing-down-potential-affordable-housing-options/
FOLLY BEACH, S.C. (WCSC) - The City of Folly Beach has narrowed down some potential affordable housing options for those who work in or for the city.Folly Beach city leaders have been working over the past year to evaluate the issue of affordable housing through community surveys and research, and have come up with some possible recommendations.Officials say one of the recommendations is to increase and expand housing stipends for Folly Beach workers to help offset housing costs for those living on Folly Beach or James Island....
FOLLY BEACH, S.C. (WCSC) - The City of Folly Beach has narrowed down some potential affordable housing options for those who work in or for the city.
Folly Beach city leaders have been working over the past year to evaluate the issue of affordable housing through community surveys and research, and have come up with some possible recommendations.
Officials say one of the recommendations is to increase and expand housing stipends for Folly Beach workers to help offset housing costs for those living on Folly Beach or James Island.
Folly Beach City Councilmember Katherine Houghton says that historically they have provided these stipends for public safety so they can respond more efficiently, but they are considering expanding this initiative to other workers in the city and increasing the dollar amount.
“Right now, it’s for emergency services. So, right now it’s for public safety and they presently already do have a stipend if they live on Folly or James Island. Right now, they are looking to increase that and expand the spots, as well as look at other city employees, not just public safety,” Houghton says.
The current housing stipend in place for public safety workers is $600 a month if they live on Folly Beach and $300 a month if they live on James Island.
Another recommendation the city is considering is the “Lease to Locals” program. Houghton says this initiative would offer incentives to homeowners who currently do short-term rentals and provide them with a financial offset amount to encourage them to do long-term rentals to locals.
“If you do the math, someone who has short-term rentals during a peak season makes a certain amount of money, so therefore what we realize is we’d have to give a financial incentive to be able to subsidize the loss in short-term rentals and offset it with a long term renter that is affiliated or with the city or working locally,” Houghton says.
Another potential recommendation that will be discussed at the next planning commission meeting is accessory dwelling units. These are small living spaces that are located on the same lot as main residences.
“The issue with attainable housing all around not just Folly, Charleston, things of that nature, you will have employees that need to work in those cities and then it’s a question of what the city does to respond to get them either living more local, which is why the strength of the public safety we’ve been doing that for years,” Houghton says. “And recently what’s happened is the question has been posed by business owners and folks that work on Folly, could you do more? Could you push out that program beyond public safety?”
The discussion of affordable housing is great news for Folly Beach worker Sydney Macek. She says that she has been eyeing affordable housing options on the island, but when one does become available she says there is a line of people wanting it as well.
“So a lot of people who work down here live 45 minutes to an hour and a half away and commute down here every day for work and I think that contributes to the restaurants and bars down here being understaffed sometimes. It would really help the local businesses down here if their workers had affordable housing and were able to live down here,” Macek says.
Houghton says that these recommendations are being brought up as the city approaches budget season and whatever options are chosen will have to be evaluated for inclusion in their budget.
The housing stipends and “Lease to Locals” program will be brought to the city council in April. The accessory dwelling units were supposed to be discussed at the planning commission meeting on March 3 but got postponed to the next meeting in April.
Copyright 2025 WCSC. All rights reserved.
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0.7FT5sENE61º
Onshore wind
7ktsSW
10kts gust
Dropping tide
5.3
2mm wetsuit
66
62 ºF
Local time:10:17pm, EDT (UTC-4)
Small mix of surf, doable on logs at better spots. Target PM incoming.
Surf is looking minor and drained out early PM as the tide moves out with surf sub knee high. Winds still offshore for clean conditions with likely sea breezes developing over the PM hours. Incoming tide mid-late afternoon tide should see rideability improve again.
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Nearby Buoys
View Buoy DataFolly Beach Pier Surf Guide
On average, the waves at Folly Beach Pier are considerably less powerful than whatever’s on tap at the Washout, but probably a bit more powerful than most other South Carolina beachbreaks. Big (but not too big) NE swells will often produce long, occasionally barreling lefts off the south side of the pier. Folly Beach Pier won’t really hold much more than a foot overhead. Read more
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