🌱 New HHI Town Budget Now In Effect + Crossings Park Upgrades Planned

Hi, Hilton Head! Like many of you, the Patch staff will be taking some time off for the Fourth of July. I’ll be back in your inbox after the holiday, but until then, here’s what’s happening in town today.

But first, your local weather:

• Monday: An afternoon thunderstorm; humid. High: 89 Low: 77.
• Tuesday: An afternoon thunderstorm; humid. High: 89 Low: 75.
• Wednesday: A couple of heavy thunderstorms. High: 89 Low: 77.

From our sponsor:

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Here are the top three stories in Hilton Head:

1. Hilton Head Island's new budget of $129.95 million for fiscal year 2024 began on Jul. 1, with the majority allocated to operating costs. The remaining funds will be used for island improvements, stormwater projects, housing, and more. The $10 million increase from last year is fueled by revenues from rental unit permit fees, hospitality taxes, and business licenses, with specific plans for park, roadway, and beach park enhancements. The budget aligns with the Strategic Action Plan to shape the island's development in the upcoming year. (WTOC)
2. A new dining spot, the Lobster Bar, has opened on Hilton Head Island, focusing on fresh and healthy food options. Patrick Hornak, the director of operations, ensures that the menu consists of all-natural and preservative-free dishes, aiming to educate people about healthy eating. The restaurant supports local musicians with live entertainment and shows appreciation to first responders by offering a 50 percent discount for firemen, police officers, and active duty military. The Lobster Bar operates from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Sundays through Thursdays and from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. (WJCL 22)
3. Exciting developments are underway for Hilton Head's park system, including the addition of a unique non-pedaling bike trail and new baseball fields. Crossings Park is set to receive a fresh upgrade with a pair of 210-foot baseball fields and concessions facilities as part of the ongoing park expansion. After consulting with athletic directors and recreational leagues, the decision was made to forgo a 400-foot diamond due to insufficient demand, but the existing 280-foot diamond will be expanded to 300 feet to accommodate players. (AOL News)

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Coming up in Hilton Head:

Monday, July 3

• Live Music At Fishcamp On Broad Creek (6:00 PM)
• La Bodega At Carolina Crab Co. (6:00 PM)

Tuesday, July 4

• Fourth Of July Star Hunt Spectacular At The Salty Dog (10:00 AM)
• Summer Jams And Fireworks At Shelter Cove Towne Centre (6:00 PM)

Wednesday, July 5

• Live Music At Hurricane Bar (6:00 PM)

From my notebook:

• If you're looking for a new home or simply exploring real estate options in Hilton Head, here are the five latest listings in the area. Among them is a property in the Hilton Head Island area priced at $899,000 and another impressive option with 5 bedrooms and 9 bathrooms for $3.7 million. (Patch)
• Are you planning to join the thousands of South Carolinians heading to the coast this 4th of July to watch spectacular aerial flyovers? As part of the 2023 Salute from the Shore, two F-16s from Shaw Air Force Base and a C-17 from Charleston Air Force Base will fly over Hilton Head Island/Bluffton beaches at approximately 1:31 and 1:48, respectively. (Salute from the Shore)

You're all caught up for today! See you all soon for your next update. Have a happy Fourth!

— Lauren Kubiak

About me: Lauren is an Editor for Lightning Media Partners. She graduated from Rowan University with a Bachelor’s in journalism. She was previously a full-time editor at an association management firm, editing peer-reviewed nursing journals, textbooks, and newsletters.