MEET BRIAN | Brian Duffy Campaign

The Isle of Palms and the captivating low country ambiance quickly took root in our hearts, yet we were compelled to depart in 1989 to pursue career opportunities in Northern VA. Our love for this unique island continued to grow, and in 1994, we acquired a lot, intending to build our dream home. In 1999, our aspirations became reality and returned to the Isle of Palms on a full-time basis in 2000. Since then, our four beloved grandchildren from off, now grown, vacationed at "their Beach House," forging their own unique bond with the island and declaring the Isle of Palms “has the friendliest people they ever met”.

Upon our return, we joined the turtle team, seeking out turtle tracks for over a decade. In 2011 and 2012, we actively participated in organizing the Jammin for Jammer fundraisers, benefiting the Sea Turtle Rescue Program at the SC Aquarium. 2013 brought to us the discovery of Bulls Island within the Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge and the charming Dominick House. During a memorable weekend tour of Bulls Island with Coastal Expeditions, Catherine and I and our dear friends, a couple from the Isle of Palms, recognized the Dominick House's need for tender loving care. Calling ourselves the Wilderness Painting and Maintenance Team (WPMT) we devoted the subsequent five years volunteering our time and energy, diligently preserving, and maintaining the Dominick House and its surrounding structures. Our collective endeavors included cleaning, painting, repairing, as well as participating in quarterly cleanup initiatives on Light House Island also in the refuge.

With the unexpected arrival of the Covid pandemic disrupting everyone’s life, we found solace in the steadfast support and camaraderie of our dear friends of the WPMT. Together, we embarked on a creative writing journey, resulting in the creation of ten short stories aptly named "Pandemic Prose. Thankful for a piano, I worked at learning how to read music and teaching myself how to play no matter how poorly. That year also provided me the opportunity to run my first “virtual “ marathon after having completed 20 Marine Corp Marathons in person. It was a lonely but worthwhile effort during this difficult year.

Today I am embarking on a new challenge. By the way, did I mention that I served on City Council from 2008 to 2011? I humbly ask for your vote once again in 2023. The Time is Now to protect and preserve the island we hold dear, and I am steadfast in my commitment to this cause.

Hailing from Pittsburgh, PA, I am a Certified Project Management Professional with a BS in Computer Science. Over the course of my career, spanning more than 20 years, I successfully designed and delivered technology projects for various government and commercial clients, consistently meeting deadlines and working within budget constraints. Having since retired, I continue to embrace every opportunity and challenge life presents

During my initial visit to the Isle of Palms in July 1985, alongside my now-wife Catherine, we were drawn to this enchanting place as we embarked on our respective roles at MUSC: Catherine as a nursing professor at the College of Nursing, and me as a computer programmer at the Department of Family Medicine. It was during this time on the island that we exchanged vows and celebrated our marriage.

BRIAN'S ANNOUNCEMENT

Dear Residents,

I am thrilled to announce my candidacy for a seat on the Isle of Palms City Council. My decision to run again, despite serving from 2008 to 2011, stems from the disheartening realization that three out of the four council members seeking re-election this term show a lack of interest in facts, data, and the well-being of our neighbors—both full-time and part-time residents of this beautiful island.

This same disregard for our community was the driving force behind my initial campaign in 2007, which aimed to protect our residential neighborhoods from the encroachment of "mini hotels" and short-term rentals. However, the threat we face today has escalated exponentially. In October of last year, luxury vacation rental brand Wander launched "Atlas," the industry's first vacation rental REIT. Their marketing strategy appeals to investors with promises of high yield-passive income, offering eight percent annual returns and a targeted total return of 14 percent. An April 4, 2023 Forbes article titled "Here’s Why Institutional Investors Are Turning To Short-Term Rentals For Growth" clearly highlights their singular focus on "total return," with no consideration for our neighborhoods. They are targeting communities like ours, and if we fail to implement proper controls or restraints on short-term rentals, Isle of Palms will be the most vulnerable along South Carolina's coast. This is especially true now that almost every surrounding community like Mount Pleasant, Sullivans, Folly Beach, Kiawah and downtown have very restrictive short term rental covenants.

A petition signed by 1173 registered voters of this island clearly expressed the need for the City Council to address the management of short-term rentals. Unfortunately, this petition was met with disdain by five council members, three of whom are seeking re-election.

I am running for City Council because the Time is Now. It is imperative that the voices of our full-time and part-time residents are not only heard but also respected and their concerns addressed. We cannot afford to have them dismissed or treated with disdain.

Together, we can safeguard the integrity of our neighborhoods and preserve the unique charm of Isle of Palms. Join me in this journey to build a better future for our community. I wholeheartedly appreciate your support and kindly ask for your vote on November 7th. I will get the job done for this community.

Sincerely yours,

Brian Duffy

QUALIFICATIONS

MANAGEMENT

Certified Project Management Professional

PUBLIC SERVICE

Chairman of the Public Works Committee

EDUCATION

BS in Computer

Science

PUBLIC SERVICE

Vice Chairman of the Ways & Means Committee

ELECTED OFFICIAL

Elected to Isle of Palms City Council

2008-2011

PUBLIC SERVICE

Chair of the Recreation Committee

SOME THINGS NEVER CHANGE...

Brian Duffy's platform and unwavering passion for Isle of Palms has remained consistent since his tenure as an elected IOP City councilman from 2008-2011. With his steadfast commitment and resolute convictions, wouldn't you want to re-elect him, knowing that his dedication has remained unchanged? Here are his accomplishments as an IOP elected official from 2008-2011:

Implemented an ordinance to limit overnight occupancy to 12 for new short-term rental licenses without adversely affecting existing mini-hotel owners, addressing residents' concerns about short-term rentals in residential neighborhoods.

Provided leadership in advancing the City's drainage projects, completing Phase I of the east end drainage project and initiating planning for Phase II. Also secured funding for drainage projects on Sparrow Lane and Lauden Avenue, addressing residents' concerns about flooding and drainage.

Demonstrated fiscal responsibility by closely monitoring the City's budget, ensuring each line item's necessity and effectively managing long-term obligations. Successfully prevented tax increases during the term.

A GLIMPSE INTO BRIAN'S LIFE