Behind the Decisions: How Local Government Works

On April 18, 2026 the League of Women Voters of Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Area hosted a very informative panel presentation featuring Steve Alfred of the Hilton Head Town Council, Alice Howard of the Chair Beaufort Council, and Dan Wood of the Bluffton Town Council. Unfortunately Alice Howard had an emergency that morning. Her presentation, however, was available and presented by Barb Hammes. You can read the  <strong>Councilwoman's presentation here</strong>. To read more information on volunteering with Beaufort County and the Infrastructure tax, click here.

The role of town and county council elected officials is crucial to the fiscal operation and day to day functioning of local government. Panel members discussed why they ran for public office, described their roles and responsibilities as council members, how they interact with other governmental bodies, and current and future projects for their area of government. The thoughtful  questions from the audience touched on many issues and increased our understanding of the governmental process.