The Platform

Oak Island has not increased local property taxes in the past eight years, a distinction among towns of similar size. Notably, an estimated 85% of Oak Island’s tax base comes from residential property owners, much higher than the 60% average in comparable towns. While this tax stability has kept housing costs steady for homeowners, it will be unsustainable without identifying and implementing additional sources of revenue. 

Focus on attracting businesses that fit the island’s character, avoiding further development from big box stores or national franchises on the island proper. Join with other coastal communities in the county to apply for joint grants, lower nourishment project costs, and create advocacy initiatives that will bolster Oak Island’s competitiveness and foster the sharing of best practices. Seek partnerships with Brunswick County and the State for beach nourishment so the town can further expand its revenue sources while providing tax relief for its residents and a financial cushion against economic downturns.

Prioritize the modernization and ongoing maintenance of vital services such as stormwater management, transportation networks, and public utilities, ensuring both safety and reliability for residents. Invest strategically in infrastructure to accommodate future development and safeguard existing assets. Collaborate between the town, residents, and neighboring communities to identify critical needs and implement sustainable improvements.

Create transparent communication and invite diverse perspectives to shape the community’s future. Create an atmosphere of unity and respect among residents, officials, and local organizations through frequent and open dialog so the town can ensure policy decisions reflect collective priorities.

Continue to openly publish meeting notes, project updates, and maintain clear channels for resident feedback while exploring new ways to engage Oak Island residents and stakeholders. Create ongoing monthly listening sessions to provide an opportunity to understand and address community concerns in real time. Ensure that the town’s communications strategy fits its population, rather than applying 21st-century methods to a 20th-century audience.

Celebrate the town’s imperfections and guard against overregulation, while protecting individual property rights. Prioritize public input and thorough research before decisions are made. Eliminate situations where council decisions are rushed, later requiring amendment due to incomplete understanding.

Make the most of the town’s internal expertise, conducting studies in-house rather than relying on outside consultants with no direct investment in Oak Island’s future. This approach will save money and strengthen local knowledge.

Celebrate Oak Island’s unique history, honor local traditions and value the experiences of long-time residents.  Conduct thoughtful stewardship of heritage to deepen community pride and guide decision-making as Oak Island navigates the opportunities and challenges ahead.

Preserve our natural resources—including beaches, waterways, and green spaces—by creating a careful balance between responsible usage and sustained protection. Encourage conservation efforts and engage residents in safeguarding the local ecosystem.

Finally, it is vital that local campaigns focus strictly on the issues at hand, avoiding distractions such as personal attacks or partisan politics.