Space in Beaufort, SC

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Since the advent of the hybrid workplace, the home office movement has taken hold and changed the way that many contractors, corporate workers, entrepreneurs, and small business owners get work done. While working remotely certainly has its benefits, many professionals are beginning to find that spending 40 hours or more a week in a home office isn't the best choice. According to the INAA, working remotely can blur the line between professional working environments and a person's personal life.

As it turns out, having a dedicated, safe space to work privately or collaborate with others can boost efficiency and increase morale. Working in an office environment with readily-available resources like printers and meeting rooms makes accomplishing tasks and making progress much more manageable. For business owners and startups, the prospect of being unproductive at home just won't cut it.

That's where The Runway's co-working space comes into play.

Office Beaufort, SC

What is a Co-Working Space in Beaufort, SC?

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A new take on the modern-day office, co-working spaces give individuals, entrepreneurs, startups, and business owners access to private desks, office resources, inclusive amenities, and exclusive perks. Imagine a purpose-built space filled with hardworking professionals, all employed by different organizations with different goals and tasks. The building has many different rooms, from communal areas with shared workspaces to large, private offices with frosted glass. Here, workers from every background can network with like-minded colleagues while having a dedicated place to work and collaborate.

From exciting startups owners working seven days a week to individuals needing a quiet place to do research, co-working office spaces offer help provide:

  • More Productivity
  • Collaboration and Networking Opportunities
  • In-House Resources
  • More Productivity
  • Collaboration and Networking Opportunities
  • In-House Resources

Service Areas

If you're looking for an affordable office space for rent in Beaufort, SC, a co-working space might be the perfect solution. But with more than 17,000 co-working spaces around the globe, what makes The Runway so special?

All of our membership options offer:

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 Office Rental Beaufort, SC
Ultra-Fast-WiFi-icon

Ultra-Fast Wi-Fi

 Office Space For Rent Beaufort, SC
Scanning and Printing

Business Center with Scanning and Printing

 Office Space Beaufort, SC
Secure-icon

Secure, 24/7 Access to Your Co-Working Space

 Business Space For Rent Beaufort, SC
Networking Events

Access to Onsite Networking Events

 Co-working Office Beaufort, SC
Atmosphere

Friendly and Productive Atmosphere

 Cheap Office Space Beaufort, SC
Utilities

Onsite Utilities

When you rent with The Runway, you'll enjoy modern workspaces, shared and private desks, and private office options. Plus, with access to our fully-stocked Pilot's lounge and even a business address, you'll be set up for success on day one.

Whether you're looking for a co-working space for your new startup or you simply need a one room office space for rent in Beaufort, SC, we have all the amenities you'd expect and more. Our goal is to provide our clients with a professional atmosphere where business-minded individuals and teams can work independently while still being a part of something bigger. It all starts by choosing the best office space rental options for your business needs.

PlansPlans at the Runway

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At The Runway, we offer a wide variety of rental options to best suit your needs, whether you're looking for a quick day pass for a few hours of work or you need a frequent monthly commitment. Plans at The Runway include the following:

Day Passes

Don't need to spend much time at The Runway? With our day pass, you can enjoy access at any time of day to our state-of-the-art lobby, conference room with frosted privacy glass, and convenient business center with printing and scanning. Relax in our fully-stocked Pilot's Lounge or get straight to work at the high tops.

 Executive Offices Beaufort, SC
 Cheap Small Office Space Beaufort, SC

Meeting Rooms

Sometimes you need a clean, impressive meeting room for those big clients, but you don't want to sign a monthly contract. We get it! Our meeting room rental options are fully equipped for modern meetings with plenty of seating, privacy glass, high-speed internet, natural light, flat-screen TVs, and more. This option allows you to impress your business partners or guests without breaking the bank.

Co-Working Hot Desks

Our hot-desk options are perfect for individuals who may only need to use our co-working space a few times a week. Members can choose from a part-time hot desk with three days per week access or a full-time hot desk with five days per week access. Unlike our day passes, our hot desk rental options include access to the Pilot's Lounge and Conference Room.

Renters can also enjoy access to our state-of-the-art lobby any time of day, conference room with frosted privacy glass, and convenient business center with printing and scanning. When it's time to take a break, relax in our fully-stocked Pilot's Lounge before you get back to work. If you're looking for an office space for entrepreneurs in Beaufort, SC, this option is a great choice.

Office Beaufort, SC
 Co-working Space Beaufort, SC

Private Dedicated Desks

If having a private desk to yourself is non-negotiable, The Runway has plenty of options for you to consider. Our private desks are an affordable solution for anyone who wants a budget-friendly option and requires a private space. When you rent one of our private desks, you'll get more perks than our day pass options, like a business address, mail service, conference room access, and access to the fully stocked Pilot's Lounge. It's all included in your monthly rate!

Small, Medium, and Large Private Offices

Whether you're working on a top-secret digital marketing campaign or you're just an introverted professional, our private office rentals are for you. In fact, many workers use 3300 W Montague Ave as their business address. When you rent a private office on a monthly basis, you'll enjoy a fully-furnished executive office with janitorial and valet trash services, 24/7 access to both our facility and an online Co-working Hub, and invitations to exclusive networking events. If you're looking for an alternative to the premium pricing found in most office parks and corporate centers, consider this option.

 Office Rental Beaufort, SC
 Office Space For Rent Beaufort, SC

Co-Working Spaces vs Traditional Office Spaces

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If you're like many of our clients at The Runway, you're probably wondering, "Why should I choose a co-working space in Beaufort, SC, near me instead of a traditional office space?"

The truth is co-working spaces with flexible workplace options have drastically changed the way professionals work. Over the last few years, more self-employed business owners and companies have taken advantage of the savings and convenience co-working spaces offer. In the past, the only options on the table were limited by nature, at rates that seemed ridiculous, even for major companies.

On the other hand, co-working spaces offer professionals the chance to move right away to a fully-functioning, comfortable workspace in a business-centric part of town. Unlike traditional office space rentals, The Runway provides you with everything you need to be successful and grow your business, whether you're a sole proprietor or have several employees.

With a properly equipped co-working space, you can focus on accomplishing your goals and finishing your day-to-day tasks without the headaches of moving into and maintaining an expensive office. Co-working spaces offered by The Runway provide:

  • Flexible spaces and private offices to grow your business
  • No Lease Agreements
  • Utilities like power and high-speed internet included
  • Access to copiers, printers, and scanners
  • Move-in ready setups when you need them the most
  • An affordable monthly investment
  • Incredible networking and brainstorming opportunities
  • Free maintenance and cleaning services
  • Free refreshments like water and coffee

On the other hand, traditional office spaces often feature:

  • Limited workspace options
  • Long-term commitments
  • Additional cost for utilities
  • Printer, scanner, and copier setup needed
  • Expensive monthly investment
  • More restrictive opportunities to network and brainstorm

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Who Uses Co-Working Spaces in Beaufort, SC?

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With the growing popularity of office rooms for rent in Beaufort, SC, many types of businesses and people are inhabiting these spaces, from popular companies to self-starters and everyone in between. Here is a quick glance at some of the most common professionals using The Runway's co-working office space.

Remote Workers

Remote Workers

Yes, you read that correctly. Remote work is often associated with Zoom calls and home offices, but remote employees can benefit greatly from co-working offices. Most remotely-employed workers enjoy having more freedom but want to use it responsibly. They choose co-working spaces because, unlike working from home, they benefit from socialization, structure, and the ability to brainstorm with others.


Freelancers

Freelancers

As is the case with remote workers, freelancing doesn't inherently mean you have a dedicated workspace or home office. Since having a home office isn't always a guarantee, we find that many freelancers flourish at The Runway. Even freelancers who have home offices often prefer to work in a more structured environment to reduce distractions and downtime. For hardworking freelancers, co-working spaces present an opportunity for more productivity and career progress. When you add access to client meeting rooms, printers, scanners, free Wi-Fi, and even a business mailing address, co-working offices are often no-brainers for freelancers.


Entrepreneurs

Entrepreneurs

Especially in the early stages of growth, entrepreneurs need a dedicated, productive space to grow their business and determine the next steps to success. Depending on the industry, entrepreneurial work can quickly clutter your personal space, both physically at home and mentally, in your head. That's often the first reason why entrepreneurs flock to co-working spaces – they're away from home, where they're more inclined to relax and be unproductive. Whether you're looking for a private office or simply a desk where you can work away from home, The Runway is the solution you need.


Startups

Startups

A co-working space for startups in Beaufort, SC, is a great idea because it provides a central location for full-time work, office meetings, and more. Startups are often defined by a team's ability to come together, brainstorm, produce a product, and fill a need. With The Runway's co-working office for startups, you can do exactly that.

Plus, having a co-working office space for a startup team saves money. If you've ever had the chance to grow a company from the ground up, you know first-hand how important budgets are for your business. When you rent from The Runway, you won't have to worry about expenses like management fees, insurance, power, internet, reinstatement fees, and other overhead costs.


Businesses

Businesses

If you own or manage a small to mid-size business, you know how expensive office space is in Beaufort. As is the case with startups, many businesses use The Runway's private meeting rooms and offices to conduct business at a fraction of the cost of a traditional office. Plus, they use the space to connect with other businesses, professionals, and freelancers who often become valuable resources. As an added bonus, co-working spaces like those at The Runway have been shown to boost morale and provide a sense of camaraderie, collaboration, and community.


FAQs about Co-Working Spaces

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Co-working and shared workspaces from The Runway are cost-effective, convenient, and full of value for hardworking people looking to get ahead. Though co-working offices have grown in popularity, with approximately 24,000 locations globally, they're still a mystery to many. If you still have questions, we invite you to contact our office today to learn more about The Runway. Until we speak, here are just a few of the most frequently asked questions we encounter.

Q. Do co-working spaces actually work? My friend uses a desk from The Runway and swears by it, but I'm not convinced.

A. The short answer to this question is a resounding "Yes!" Thousands of people use co-working offices as a reliable way to stay productive and professional. In fact, research from Harvard Business Review states that surveyed workers benefit from more motivation, higher productivity, and more valuable social interactions.

Q. What does The Runway's co-working space offer?

A. The Runway is a co-working office space and community that offers clients a modern, purpose-built place to work and succeed. Depending on their needs, members enjoy many options and perks, including:

  • Secure 24/7 Access to the Facility
  • Ultra-Fast Internet
  • Access to Printers, Scanners, and Copiers
  • Private Offices
  • Private Meeting Rooms
  • Private Lockers
  • Fully-Stocked Lounge Area
  • Much More

Q. What is the point of co-working spaces?

A. Co-working spaces like The Runway give professionals a chance to work in a professional setting without the overhead costs and headaches of a traditional office. Whether solo or in a team, The Runway offers diverse groups of workers the opportunity to thrive professionally while connecting with others.

Let The Runway be Your Launching Pad to Business Success

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At The Runway, we're passionate about empowering risk-takers, dreamers, and businesspeople of all backgrounds with affordable office space for rent in Beaufort, SC. Whether you're just starting a new venture or you're a veteran freelancer, The Runway is where your business can take off. Contact our office today to reserve your co-working space or to learn more about our day passes and monthly options.

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Latest News in Beaufort, SC

This Small Coastal Town in South Carolina Has Charleston-like Charm Without the Crowds

Here’s what to know about visiting Beaufort, one of South Carolina’s most beautiful towns.0 seconds of 59 secondsVolume 0%This video file cannot be played.(Error Code: 224003)Charleston may get most of the attention when it comes to South Carolina’s many cities, but the history, culture, and (of course) Southern ch...

Here’s what to know about visiting Beaufort, one of South Carolina’s most beautiful towns.

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Charleston may get most of the attention when it comes to South Carolina’s many cities, but the history, culture, and (of course) Southern charm that make it so special can also be found in smaller and less expensive places in the region. If you’ve ever watched “Forrest Gump” or read anything by the late author Pat Conroy, you may be familiar with Beaufort, a harbor town on Port Royal Island. Its narrow streets, oak trees, and historic district that pre-dates the Civil War are similar to those in Charleston, but Beaufort is remarkable and magical in its own right. Plus, it doesn’t draw the same crowds that tend to flock to notable Holy City hangouts like King Street, Folly Beach, and the Battery.

Before you read any further, though, you need to know how to properly pronounce the name. Not to be confused with Beaufort, North Carolina (said like “bow-fert”), the coastal town has a pronunciation more akin to “bew-fert.” Mistaking the two will immediately identify you as a tourist — and it won’t sit too well with the locals. Once you have that squared away, you can start planning your trip to Beaufort, the second-oldest city in South Carolina.

8 Charming Small Towns in South Carolina — From the Mountains to the Beach

Best Things to Do in Beaufort, South Carolina

In 1969, Beaufort became one of the few U.S. cities with an entire downtown designated as a historic district by the National Trust for Historic Preservation, so exploring the neighborhoods filled with Victorian, Greek Revival, Neoclassical, and Federal-style homes is at the top of most travelers’ lists. At Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park, you’ll spot Woods Memorial Bridge, recognizable from the aforementioned Tom Hanks blockbuster. Stretching your legs is also encouraged along the Spanish Moss Trail, a 10-mile greenway that weaves by Beaufort’s marshes and through trees draped in Spanish moss. Given its waterfront location, Beaufort should also be experienced by boat; book a Dolphin & History Boat Cruise with Coastal Expeditions or an ecology tour with Beaufort Kayak Tours. Paddleboarding is another option, with rental equipment available at Higher Ground Outfitters.

Beaufort’s ties to the literary world are strong; visiting the Pat Conroy Literary Center (Beaufort was Conroy’s adopted hometown) or one of the three independent bookstores in town — NeverMore Books, McIntosh Book Shoppe, and Beaufort Books — is a must for book lovers. For those interested in local art, there’s the Gullah Art Gallery and Museum, Legacy Art Gallery, Rhett Gallery, Thibault Gallery, or Atelier Off Bay.

Many of the best things to do in Beaufort are found further outside of downtown. About 17 miles east is Hunting Island State Park, with its pristine beaches, marshes, maritime forest, saltwater lagoon, and the Hunting Island Lighthouse, which was destroyed during the Civil War and rebuilt in 1875. St. Helena Island (a 13-minute drive away) is home to Penn Center — one of the United States’ first schools for formerly enslaved individuals — as well as the family-owned Dempsey Farms, where you can pick in-season fruits and vegetables. Local produce can also be acquired on Saturdays at the nearby Port Royal Farmers Market.

The Best Things to Do in South Carolina, According to a Local

Beaufort Hotels

An overnight trip to Beaufort is best accompanied by a stay in one of the town’s upscale inns. Slow Southern mornings paired with a home-cooked breakfast can be enjoyed on the expansive wooden porch at The Rhett House Inn. Guests can also book the more modern Rhett House Inn Cottages, which sit across the street from the main building. Once a Union Army hospital, Anchorage 1770 overlooks the Beaufort River and offers a fine dining experience at the Ribaut Social Club. The Beaufort Inn first opened its doors in 1897, and the property’s modern-day chapter features several fully renovated buildings within the town’s historic district.

Where to Eat and Drink in Beaufort, South Carolina

As with most Southern cities and towns, food is a major part of the local culture. If you’re a traveler who plans their vacations around meals, you’ll want to start your day at Blackstone’s Cafe or Herban Market and Cafe. If you’re exploring Beaufort during the day and want something quick, order a fried chicken sandwich or po’boy from Lowcountry Produce Market & Cafe. Chapman’s Grocer also has grab-and-go treats, wine, and craft beer. Old Bull Tavern is a lively gastropub open only for dinner, Saltus River Grill is great for indulging in seafood, and those craving Italian should dine at Griffin Market. Gullah Grub Restaurant on St. Helena Island is one of the area’s most famous restaurants (it appeared on Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations); get the shrimp gumbo.

Best Time to Visit

A South Carolina summer is hot and humid — there’s no getting around that. To explore Beaufort in the most comfortable climate, your best bet is to go in either early spring or late fall. April and October are ideal for having plenty to do (winter is far from bustling) while simultaneously avoiding the sweltering weather synonymous with the South.

Getting There

If you’re flying into Hilton Head Airport (HHH) or Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV) — both are under an hour away — you’ll need to rent a car to fully experience Beaufort and its surrounding area. Charleston International Airport (CHS) is also an option, although it’ll take about 90 minutes to get to Beaufort.

Experience The Subtle Magic Of Beaufort, South Carolina

There's a moment at Hunting Island State Park as you're biking along the Lagoon Trail—ocean breezes and intoxicating beach vistas playing peekaboo to your left—when the sandy path turns inland and a sign points to Diamondback Rattlesnake Trail. A good idea? Yes."Yes," it turns out, sums up the ...

There's a moment at Hunting Island State Park as you're biking along the Lagoon Trail—ocean breezes and intoxicating beach vistas playing peekaboo to your left—when the sandy path turns inland and a sign points to Diamondback Rattlesnake Trail. A good idea? Yes.

"Yes," it turns out, sums up the best way to experience Beaufort, South Carolina, and its environs, including Hunting Island. Yes, the path less taken is an excellent idea, as is the Sweet Tea Float at Scout Southern Market. Spending hours strolling through The Old Point and gazing at historic homes and even older live oaks offers endless enchantment. But with my eyes peeled for rattlers, I was (yes) relieved that the only serpentine thing I discovered was more of the winding trail along old dune ridgelines through a primordial wonderland.

The trail affirms why Hunting Island, a breathtaking 25-minute drive from Beaufort, is South Carolina's most popular state park. With a dozen similar paths and 5 miles of pristine beach, this place leads you back eons in time through an untouched maritime forest with towering pines and ospreys soaring overhead as well as magnolias and saw palmettos tangled with yaupon hollies and wax myrtles in the dense understory. Here you breathe deeper and look more closely. Life slows down, and a sense of awe percolates up.

Take a seat on one of the bench swings at Beaufort's Waterfront Park. Wide and welcoming, they move back and forth in a rhythmic lullaby. You can't help relaxing, especially if you happen to catch a sunset or tune into the soft lapping of the Beaufort River against the floating dock, hearing the jingling clink of pulleys against sailboat masts—a mariner's wind chime.

Saltus River Grill, where the scenic setting rivals the exceptional food and drink. PHOTO: Peter Frank Edwards A slice of the sweet life from Beaufort’s upscale Saltus River Grill. PHOTO: Peter Frank Edwards

Waterfront Park showcases the smart civic planning that makes Beaufort such a delight: The town's best vistas are protected and preserved. There are thoughtful amenities (parking, public bathrooms, an amphitheater, picnic tables, and plenty of green lawn for kids and dogs to play on). Plus it's all conveniently adjacent to an enticing array of restaurants, coffee shops, and stores along Bay Street. What better nightcap than to sit and swing a spell after enjoying grilled scallops or top-notch sushi at Saltus River Grill?

Historic Craven Street. PHOTO: Peter Frank Edwards A rooftop sunset at Anchorage 1770. PHOTO: Peter Frank Edwards

Beaufort is subdued in the best possible way. She has the same deep history and stunning architecture that her nearby sisters, Charleston and Savannah, are celebrated for, but she's fine staying slightly out of the limelight. Wise and mature, Beaufort wears her age like the badge of honor it is. Her Lowcountry aura feels elemental, with more patina and less pomp. Along Short Street at the edge of The Old Point, moss-heaped limbs cradle historic mansions. Beaufort's treescape shouts of grandeur in whatever language oaks speak. Gardens and yards aren't so much manicured as they are magical. It's easy to see why Hollywood frequently comes calling (a stairwell at The Beaufort Inn features posters from major motion pictures filmed here). Longtime resident Pat Conroy was so smitten that he wrote, "When I came to Beaufort I had struck upon a land so beautiful I had to hunt for other words."

Not far from Short Street, the First African Baptist Church, a Gothic Revival gem built by freedmen in 1865, bears witness to Beaufort's African American, Gullah, and Reconstruction-era history. "Robert Smalls was a member here. This document notes his Sunday school attendance and that he put a few cents in the offering plate," says the Rev. Alexander McBride, a jovial former marine and the church's pastor of almost 20 years, pointing to framed, yellowing pages hanging behind the sanctuary. A statue of Smalls, an enslaved crewman who heroically commandeered a Confederate ship and later served as a U.S. Congressman, is less than a mile away at Tabernacle Baptist Church, where a monument to Harriet Tubman is also planned.

Both churches are worthy stops, along with the Penn Center across the bridge on St. Helena Island, the Gullah Art Gallery/Museum on Bladen Street, and the Legacy Art Gallery on Bay Street. Each place gives a deeper insight into the region's vibrant and enduring African American and Gullah Geechee culture. Providing an overview of Beaufort's past, Capt. Henry Brandt of Coastal Expeditions offers a boat tour that cruises through the area's Native American, Spanish, and French history; Union occupation; and a view of Camp Saxton's tabby ruins, where the Emancipation Proclamation was first read in South Carolina—all interspersed with musings on estuary ecosystems and the fecund marvels of pluff mud.

"You don't fully experience Beaufort until you see it from the water," Brandt claims. After watching dolphins curl and glide from the boat's bow and admiring the town's steeples rising in the background, I absolutely believe him.

Where to Stay

Anchorage 1770Boutique hotel in an 18th-century mansion with fine dining at the Ribaut Social Club; anchorage1770.com

The Beaufort InnHistoric main inn plus several cottages clustered around a courtyard; beaufortinn.com

What to Eat and Drink

Blackstone's CaféClassic diner-like options; blackstonescafe.com

Common GroundCoffee, lattes, baked goods, and sandwiches; commongroundbeaufort.com

Lowcountry Produce KitchenLocally sourced salads and sandwiches and a legendary tomato pie; lowcountryproduce.com

Chapman's GrocerGrab-and-go items plus beer, wine, and snacks; facebook.com/Chapmans-Grocer-Beaufort

Saltus River GrillFine dining with fresh local seafood, Southern fare, steaks, sushi, and a well-curated wine list; saltusrivergrill.com

Old Bull TavernGastropub featuring a lively bar scene anda lamb shank that does not disappoint; oldbulltavern.com

Where to Shop

Scout Southern MarketUnique gifts and home goods as well as delicious treats like the famous float at the Sweet Tea Bar; scoutsouthernmarket.com

Bachelor Hill AntiquesOffering treasures galore; bachelorhillantiques.com

Cabana22Coastal-chic boutique; cabana22.com

The Chocolate TreeConfections such as fudge, truffles, and peanut brittle; thechocolatetree.us

Legacy Art GalleryGullah-inspired works; legacyartgallery.com

What to Do

Hunting Island; southcarolinaparks.comSt. Phillips IslandPat Conroy Literary Center; patconroyliterarycenter.orgCoastal Expeditions; coastalexpeditions.comReconstruction Era National Historic Park; nps.govSpanish Moss Trail; spanishmosstrail.comCraven Street en route to The Old Point to explore historic neighborhoods

Beaufort Co. early voting for November 7 elections begins

BEAUFORT COUNTY, S.C. (WSAV) — Early voting has kicked off in Beaufort County today. Some key mayoral races and council races are on the ballot – but what might turn out to be the biggest issue? The Beaufort County Schools’ biggest referendum ever.“I wanted to raise my voice and vote early and it’s not busy right now so it was perfect,” said Bluffton resident Gonneke Bakels.Voters in the City of Beaufort, Town of Bluffton and Town Of Port Royal will all elect new mayors.There are also ...

BEAUFORT COUNTY, S.C. (WSAV) — Early voting has kicked off in Beaufort County today. Some key mayoral races and council races are on the ballot – but what might turn out to be the biggest issue? The Beaufort County Schools’ biggest referendum ever.

“I wanted to raise my voice and vote early and it’s not busy right now so it was perfect,” said Bluffton resident Gonneke Bakels.

Voters in the City of Beaufort, Town of Bluffton and Town Of Port Royal will all elect new mayors.

There are also some council seats up for grabs too. but, every voter in the county will have a say on the county’s school’s referendum. Local elections like these during off years tend to go unnoticed but election officials say that they shouldn’t.

“In the local election when the president is not on the ballot, some people have a tendency to think it’s not important,” Marie Smalls Beaufort County Elections Director explained. “The local election will affect you more personally than the nationwide election.”

The referendum has a price tag of $439 million dollars. If passed, it will expand existing schools and build new ones – making more room for students. We spoke to voters both in favor and against it.

One couple told News 3 they fear if it’s passed – the Lowcountry will get even more crowded.

“When you build a new school, you know, then you can build other developments and it’s just getting ridiculous,” Bluffton resident Betsy Dowling said. “We’ve been here 20 years and the difference between 20 years ago and now is incredible. And the traffic, everything. So where we want to stop that.”

Unlike absentee voting, you don’t need an excuse. So, anyone who’s registered to vote can skip the election day lines.

“Being it’s the first day. A lot of people still have not gotten the word, but as the week progresses on, I’m sure the turnout will increase,” Smalls told News 3.

She continued, “When we get closer to the election, then people will realize the urgency and come out and vote.”

You have until November 3 to vote early. There are four polling locations throughout the county and you can also vote absentee by mail.

For details on early voting in Beaufort County, see the original press release below:

Beaufort County announced on Oct. 17 the early voting locations and schedule for the November 7, 2023 elections today.

Early voting will take place from October 23 – November 3 (Monday-Friday) starting at 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and will be closed on weekends.

Early Voting Centers can be found at the following locations:

Any registered voter is able to visit an early-voting location in Beaufort and vote like they would at their polling place on Election Day which will take place on November 7, 2023.

Potentially on Beaufort County ballots will be the Fripp Island PSD Bond Referendum, the Countywide School Bond Referendum, the Town of Bluffton, the Town of Port Royal and the Town of Yemassee (Part).

Beaufort County asks that voters bring a valid Photo ID (or voter registration card if they do not have a Photo ID).

The following are acceptable types of photo IDs:

If you miss early voting, you still have time to vote on the November 7 election day.

Beaufort County hearing scheduled Friday in Alex Murdaugh SC financial crimes case

A hearing has been scheduled for Friday morning to hear pending matters in an upcoming financial crimes trial involving disbarred lawyer and confessed fraudster Richard "Alex" Murdaugh.The South Carolina Attorney General's Office confirmed today that a 10 a.m. hearing is set in Beaufort County before Judge Clifton Newman.The purpose of the hearing is "to discuss juror issues in the upcoming financial crimes trial, but other motions might be discussed," said SCAG spokesperson Robert Kittle....

A hearing has been scheduled for Friday morning to hear pending matters in an upcoming financial crimes trial involving disbarred lawyer and confessed fraudster Richard "Alex" Murdaugh.

The South Carolina Attorney General's Office confirmed today that a 10 a.m. hearing is set in Beaufort County before Judge Clifton Newman.

The purpose of the hearing is "to discuss juror issues in the upcoming financial crimes trial, but other motions might be discussed," said SCAG spokesperson Robert Kittle.

Murdaugh is scheduled to appear in Beaufort County General Sessions Court beginning Nov. 27 to stand trial for charges related to an insurance scheme he allegedly orchestrated involving the estate of his late household employee, Gloria Satterfield. He also faces roughly a hundred other financial crimes charges.

However, during a recent court filing, his attorneys, Richard Harpootlian and Jim Griffin, stated that 147 potential jurors had returned pretrial questionnaires which stated they had extensive knowledge of the case. It is possible this is the juror issue referred to.

In that recent filing, Murdaugh's attorneys also requested a change of venue or a continuance of this trial. It is possible this matter may be heard as well.

Other matters remain pending before the higher courts. Murdaugh's attorneys have also filed motions with the South Carolina Supreme Court demanding a hearing in hopes of getting a new trial based on jury tampering allegations, and filed a motion seeking to have Newman booted off of the Murdaugh cases and replaced by another judge.

Murdaugh has already pleaded guilty to federal charges against him related to his financial crimes, and awaits sentencing, and has confessed to many of his financial crimes in open court and in court filings.

Even as legal maneuvers are made, and motion after motion is filed, Murdaugh remains jailed on two life sentences after being convicted March 2 for killing his wife and younger son in a plot that state prosecutors say was designed to distract from his financial crimes, gain Murdaugh sympathy, and buy him time to replace stolen money and cover his tracks.

This is a developing story and Greenville News/The USA Today Network-South Carolina will continue to cover it. Follow Michael M DeWitt Jr. for updates on the Alex Murdaugh cases, and follow him on X at @mmdewittjr

Beaufort named Best County to Live in South Carolina

Beaufort County has been named the Best County to Live in South Carolina out of all 46 counties in the state, according to 24/7 Wall St., one of the most popular analytics rankings sites in the U.S.When deciding where to live can be a big decision, one that requires a lot of research into which areas are more affordable, which are a great place to retire or which are simply a great place to call home. 24/7 Wall St. is helping in the search by analyzing data from around the country to compile a list of the best county to live in in eac...

Beaufort County has been named the Best County to Live in South Carolina out of all 46 counties in the state, according to 24/7 Wall St., one of the most popular analytics rankings sites in the U.S.

When deciding where to live can be a big decision, one that requires a lot of research into which areas are more affordable, which are a great place to retire or which are simply a great place to call home. 24/7 Wall St. is helping in the search by analyzing data from around the country to compile a list of the best county to live in in each state, basing rankings on factors like poverty and life expectancy.

And, 24/7 Wall St. has told them all that Beaufort, SC is the place to be!

Using an index inspired by the [United Nations’ Human Development Index], 24/7 Wall St. identified the best county or county equivalent to live in in each state. Counties are ranked on a combination of three measures — average life expectancy at birth, the share of adults with a bachelor’s degree, and the poverty rate.”

According the site, the best county to live in South Carolina is right here in Beaufort County, with a poverty rate of 10,1%, compared to the state average of 14.5%, and life expectancy of 82.4 years, a few years longer than the state average of 76.8.

Additionally, the median household income is $74,199.

“Beaufort County is located in the southern part of the state along the Atlantic coast,” 24/7 Wall Street said.

“Home to the resort community of Hilton Head Island, it ranks as the best county to live in in the state. Of all 46 counties in South Carolina, Beaufort has the longest life expectancy at birth, which, at 82.4 years, is nearly six years longer than the state average. The county also ranks as best to live in in the state also because of the relative lack of serious financial hardship, with a poverty rate far lower than the state average.”

Is it really a surprise?

The accolades that Beaufort has received lately are just way too many to mention. Recently, Beaufort has been named the Healthiest County in South Carolina (for 12 straight years). Just last month, it was named one of the Most Beautiful Towns in America, and in August, Southern Living named Beaufort the #1 Best Small Town in S.C. Also, earlier in 2023, Beaufort was named on the list of Cutest Seaside Towns in the South by Town & Country Magazine.

That’s an awful lot of love.

Check out the full report at 24/7 Wall St. to see the best county to live in for each state.

2023 has been another record setting sea turtles nesting season here in the Palmetto State, with beaches all over South Carolina getting into the sea turtle fun.

2023 saw the third highest total number of sea turtle nests in a single season along beaches in South Carolina since record keeping began in the early 1980s, according to the totals from seaturtle.org.

In 2019, a whopping 8,798 loggerhead sea turtle nests were laid on state beaches, a South Carolina record. That was followed by 7,995 in 2022.

2023 produced 6,629 nests along Palmetto State beaches, the third highest total to date.

According to this year’s statistics, those nests yielded a total of over 387,000 baby sea turtles that made their way across the South Carolina sand into the Atlantic Ocean.

SCDNR oversees a network of volunteers who help staff count nests. Volunteers and staff from Hunting and Hilton Head Islands have both reported very high nest counts and beaches all over the Lowcountry and the rest of the state have reported the same.

According to SCDNR, altogether more than 1100 individuals participate in nest monitoring activities in South Carolina each year. The data collected are crucial in monitoring populations, formulating protective regulations, making management decisions, and maximizing reproduction for recovery.

As of the October 21st, Hunting Island State Park has seen a new season record of 195 nests; Fripp Island has had 118; Hilton Head Island reported 353 nests; Daufuskie Island has seen 75; Edisto Beach State Park has had 304 while Edisto town beach had 189; Pritchards Island has seen 76 nests; and Harbor Island has enjoyed 108 nests this season.

Even little Coffin Point Beach on St. Helena Island has had a near-record year with 22 nests. Smaller yet, Lands End beach on St. Helena Island even had 4 nests this year, as did Parris Island.

The 2023 season began right on time with a May 2nd nest laid on South Island, near Georgetown, SC. And it ended with the last nest reported being dug up by a momma turtle on September 4th at Edisto Town Beach.

The first hatch of the 2023 season occurred on Lighthouse Island on July 14th.

A high number of ‘day nesters,’ or female sea turtles that come ashore to nest in broad daylight instead of more typical darkness, has also been documented in 2023. The increased number of day nesters could be because of dry sand conditions, which can hinder a sea turtle’s efforts to dig a nest cavity, or harassment during night emergence, a release said.

Record-breaking years have become increasingly common across the Southeast recently, and sea turtle biologists are optimistic that the trend signals the beginning of recovery for loggerhead sea turtles, whose nests make up the vast majority of nests here in the Palmetto State. Loggerhead turtles were listed as threatened under the Endangered Species Act in 1978.

State and federal law prohibits the harm of or interference with sea turtles or their nests. Harassment includes any activity that changes a sea turtle’s natural behavior, ranging from approaching nesting females to take photos to ‘assisting’ hatchlings on their path to the ocean.

“Sea turtles are wild animals,” said biologist Michelle Pate, director of SCDNR’s sea turtle program. “Let nature take its course.”

If we continue to let nature take its course….we might just keep having record years like these.

Here’s hoping.

What can you do to protect sea turtles?

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