I care about our Island Community.
What do I stand for?
Residents’ Quality of Life
The quality of life for Hilton Head Island residents is my top priority. Balancing tourism, which keeps our taxes low, and caring for the needs of our residents often creates contention. However, we can improve this balance by adopting policies and practices that attract tourists who share our values. Our proactive government has invested in our future, health, safety, and infrastructure. We know a lack of housing for our critical workers in healthcare, emergency services, will impact our quality of life. A well-funded Fire/Rescue team saves lives and keeps insurance costs low. To keep our streets safe, we should explore a revenue-neutral traffic control unit within a Public Safety Department focused on traffic management and code enforcement.
Living Alongside Nature
Our island is a paradise that draws people from all over the world. My lifelong passion for environmental protection, backed by my degree in environmental science, drives my commitment to smart, resilient development that preserves our native plants, animals, and ecosystems. I will advocate for the continued purchase and protection of land, preventing overdevelopment, and improving our environmental footprint through enhanced recycling and expanded trash collection services.
We must cherish and protect what makes Hilton Head Island special. Let’s keep our island green and not pave over the paradise that so many of us love.
Art-History-Culture
The rich history, vibrant culture, and flourishing arts scene on Hilton Head Island enhance our quality of life. While tourism brings economic benefits, it has also created friction between residents and visitors. I believe this tension stems from a disconnect in values between residents and tourists. By promoting environmentally responsible tourism, Gullah Geechee heritage, and supporting the performing arts, we can develop more sustainable tourism and foster a community that values and protects what makes our island unique.
Our town is moving in the right direction by supporting these initiatives, and I will continue to champion efforts that preserve and enhance our island’s natural and cultural remarkability.
Rex Garniewicz
for Hilton Head Island
Hilton Head is more than just home—it's the heart and soul of our lives. My family and I have an unmatched understanding of our Island community.
I’m dedicated to protecting our natural environment, preserving our unique culture, and ensuring a safe, resilient community.
With 25 years of proven leadership in fiscal responsibility, transparency, and accountability, I’m ready to serve and safeguard our island’s future.
How will I accomplish this?
Fiscal responsibility has always been a core value in my personal and professional life. Coming from a non-profit background, I know the importance of ensuring every dollar spent yields a return, especially when that return means an improved quality of life for our community. The town’s budget has been built to better serve residents, with less than 30% funded by property taxes—in fact, most of our budget comes from business operations and tourism-related taxes. My goal is to ensure Council aligns our budget with our community’s true needs.
I believe in the power of community dialogue, not just with those who agree with me but also with those who challenge my views. It’s through these conversations that we build a stronger Hilton Head Island. Listening to your voice—no matter where you stand—is at the heart of my campaign and will continue to guide my service.
Transparency and accountability are not just buzzwords; they are principles I’ve championed during my tenure on the Hilton Head Plantation Board of Directors. You may have heard, I’ve taken heat for standing up for these values, and I’m not afraid to do so again. Clear, open communication and holding leadership and how your dollars are spent accountable are vital.
As your Ward 6 Representative, I will listen to you, address your concerns, and never take your trust for granted. My door will always be open, and you will always know where I stand and why.
Earning Your Vote
As your Ward 6 Representative, I’m committed to protecting our natural environment and supporting our arts, culture, and historical resources. We must continue to support life-saving efforts on the Island and invest in our Hilton Head Island Fire-Rescue department. We must build a more sustainable tourism economy that enhances our quality of life, and we need strong leadership to tackle crucial issues like workforce housing. I’m eager to serve as your voice on the Council and would love to hear from you directly. You can reach me by email at rexforhhi@gmail.com, or if it’s urgent, call my personal cell at 843-415-8500.
Thank you! - Rex Garniewicz
