What We Pay
Here is a breakdown of What We Already Pay for Beaufort County Sheriff Office (BCSO) Services
Currently, Hilton Head Island residents contribute more than $52 million in taxes to Beaufort County's overall budget. Of that amount, $14.4 million is allocated for law enforcement services.
For many years, the Town paid an additional $3.2 million and provided the BCSO with administrative office space and stipends for first year deputies living and working on the Island.
Last year, the Town Council determined it was not appropriate to continue paying millions more for services Island property owners already substantially contributed to as part of their property taxes.
What We Paid Beaufort County for Law Enforcement Services in Fiscal Year 2020
$14.4M (45%) Paid by Hilton Head Island Residents
$17.6M (55%) Paid by Other Beaufort County Property Owners
What Beaufort County Wants Us to Pay for Law Enforcement Services in Fiscal Year 2021
+ $18.8M (60%) To be Paid by Hilton Head Island Residents
$13.2M (40%) To be Paid by Other Beaufort County Property Owners
In recent months, Town leaders have held discussions with County leaders seeking an equitable resolution to make up for the $3.2 million loss the County suffered as a result of Town action. County leaders rejected proposals from the Town, which included having the Town assume responsibility for some maintenance of County-owned parks and roads on the Island, and for County financial contributions to our local Island Rec Center.
Instead, the Beaufort County Council voted to impose a Law Enforcement Service Charge and Uniform User Fee for the Town of Hilton Head Island.