It's no secret, most of us would like to stay in our own home as we age. Yet, sometimes our loved ones just need a little extra help to remain comfortable at home. That's where Always Best Care can help....we are dedicated to exceeding expectations....always.
They say that your golden years are the best years of your life. For most older Americans, that's how it should be - a time to relax, reflect, and live life in a familiar place. After all, senior citizens in the U.S. have worked tirelessly to build a better economy, serve their communities, and raise families.
However, as seniors grow older, completing daily tasks like showering and enjoying activities such as visiting the historic Fort Moultrie National Historical Park gets harder without someone by their side. Unfortunately, many older Americans aren't able to rely on their adult children for help. The reality in today's world is that family members do not have the skills or time to dedicate to caring for their parents. That's where Always Best Care Senior Services comes in.
Our in-home care services are for people who prefer to stay at home as they grow older but need ongoing care that family or friends cannot provide. More and more older adults prefer to live far away from long-term, institutionalized facilities and closer to the place where they feel most comfortable - their home. Home care in Isle of Palms, SC is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.
Home Care Services
Service AreasSince 1996, Always Best Care has provided non-medical in-home care for seniors to help them maintain a healthy lifestyle as they get older. We are proud to have helped more than 25,000 seniors maintain higher levels of dignity and respect. We focus on providing seniors with the highest level of in-home care available so that they may live happily and independently.
Unlike some senior care companies, we genuinely want to be included in our clients' lives. We believe that personalized care is always the better option over a "one size fits all" approach. To make sure our senior clients receive the best care possible, we pair them with compassionate caregivers who understand their unique needs. That way, they may provide care accordingly without compromising their wellbeing.
The Always Best Care difference lies in life's little moments - where compassionate care and trustworthy experience come together to help seniors live a fruitful, healthy life. Whether you are an aging adult that can't quite keep up with life's daily tasks or the child of a senior who needs regular in-home services, Always Best Care is here to help.
“Best Senior Service Care in Charleston to work for. Christine and Rick are very positive”
“Very Professional and excellent staff.”
“Our family has been using the services of Always Best Care for the past six”
“I cannot say enough wonderful things about Always Best Care Charleston! I am truly blessed”
“Always Best Care caregivers have been taking care of Dad for over a year. We”
“Like most I was not prepared for the transition to being the responsible one for”
“We have had several senior services for my Mother that we were really not happy”
“Good Afternoon! I hope you're doing well! I wanted you to know that my dad”
“The absolute best caregiving company to work for hands down! Rick and Christine are genuine,”
“This is a great company to work for. All their caregivers are dedicated and caring.”
“These people are lifesavers! We searched for months to find an in-home care agency for”
“Always Best Care has constantly provided quality care services for my wife over many months”
“Couldn’t imagine a better team of people to take care of my loved ones. Rick”
“Rick and Christine, of Always Best Care Charleston, are the exact people I would trust”
“I've known Christine and Ricky Johnson for more than 30 years and would highly recommend”
“I joined Always Best Care as the Director of Operations about 3 months ago. I”
“I have known Christine and Rick for years. Their actions and words repeatedly demonstrate their”
“I couldn't be happier that Ricky and Christine Johnson have joined Always Best Care Senior”
“How fortunate the Charleston community is to have Always Best Care to serve the needs”
“I have known Christine and Rick Johnson both professionally and personally for over 20 years”
“Best Senior Service Care in Charleston to work for. Christine and Rick are very positive and supportive and for that I love my Job.”
“Very Professional and excellent staff.”
“Our family has been using the services of Always Best Care for the past six months and are grateful for the assistance provided to my elderly parents. Initially Rick, one of the owners, met with us along with my parents to closely assess their needs. His warm, friendly manner was helpful in persuading my father to give the assistance a try for two days per week. Rick listened carefully to choose the best match in caregivers, and we could not be more satisfied than we are with our parents' caregiver. She has quickly become essential in their lives and makes a huge difference in whether or not they can remain in their home. Her manner with my parents is professional, but loving, always--- always--- going the extra mile to meet their needs. She is knowledgeable, hard-working, caring, and trusted to do what is in their best interest. We are thankful that someone told us about Always Best Care and ever grateful for our caregiver.”
“I cannot say enough wonderful things about Always Best Care Charleston! I am truly blessed to be a part of such a wonderful team! Christine and Rick are very dedicated to the work that they are doing, and it shows in everything they do. I have never had the pleasure of working for a company with more passionate and involved owners. They show up for their clients and caregivers in every way possible. They go above and beyond to treat everyone like family and enrich the lives of those around them. I am so grateful to be able to be a part of this journey and cannot wait to see all the great things they will accomplish!”
“Always Best Care caregivers have been taking care of Dad for over a year. We appreciate Christine and Rick very much. Quentin, Ann, Alexus , you and others have been a joy to have in our home and doing whatever needs to be done. You show your care and concern for Dad’s physical and emotional well being and you have become part of our family. I really rely on you when we can’t be home and know Dad is in good hands!!! Keep up the good work!!! Love you all.”
“Like most I was not prepared for the transition to being the responsible one for my Mom. Looking back there were signs of memory decline but after emergency surgery and move to rehab the combative paranoid person my sweet, witty, well read , soft spoken Mom became was shocking. Medication and skilled care were prescribed. Several missteps were made with both. Mom’s dark side resulted in first skilled care company dropping us which I totally understood. I was very straight with Christine and Rick regarding Mom’s recent ‘trips out on the ledge’. Rather than politely taking a pass on us...they spent 2 hours in person with us, 3 cumulative hours on the phone asking me questions and strategizing how to avoid the triggers that put Mom ‘on the ledge’, and 2 twelve hour days observing, testing and tweaking strategies. We are approaching 2 months with no major or reportable incidents. I don’t know how long this again found quality of life will last. I am thankful that one of the nurses referred me to ABC. I am tremendously thankful to be their client for the remainder of this journey.”
“We have had several senior services for my Mother that we were really not happy with, then we found Rick and his staff with Always Best Care. There name says it all ... always the best care. Their staff are warm, caring and assist my Mother seven days a week, and she loves seeing Rick. I couldn't ask for better care & highly recommend them to anyone who needs this type of service.”
“Good Afternoon! I hope you're doing well! I wanted you to know that my dad LOVES Rick and so does Amya!! I can't thank you guys enough for all that you guys are doing, not only for my father but me! Rick went out of his way today and that truly meant a lot :) My dad is so happy and that makes me happy! you guys rock!! thank you!!!”
“The absolute best caregiving company to work for hands down! Rick and Christine are genuine, loving individuals which make them amazing business owners/ bosses. They do not hesitate to make their employees and clients happy. I’m so thankful to have met these amazing people and be apart of their outstanding company.”
“This is a great company to work for. All their caregivers are dedicated and caring.”
“These people are lifesavers! We searched for months to find an in-home care agency for my aging mother. Previous agencies we used had high turnover and repeated no-shows, leaving us scrambling to adjust and worried sick about Covid exposure from a revolving door of caregivers. Christine and her staff came to our rescue and changed all that. Their caregivers were patient, loving, dedicated and RELIABLE. They provide service at the highest level and we would wholeheartedly recommend them to others. My mother deserves the best care and I wouldn't use anyone else.”
“Always Best Care has constantly provided quality care services for my wife over many months of required assistance. The caregivers provide professional services with a loving touch. They have always addressed any questions or concerns immediately with kindness. The administration checks with me, periodically, for a review and any input for improvement. I highly recommend this company.”
“Couldn’t imagine a better team of people to take care of my loved ones. Rick and Christine are the kindest and most genuine people. Their years of work in the customer service industry truly show through the care they provide to others. Aside from the physical and emotional care they provide, which is most important, they are reliable, punctual, trustworthy, and their connections with others last a lifetime. Everyone is family with Rick and Christine.”
“Rick and Christine, of Always Best Care Charleston, are the exact people I would trust and choose to care for my aging loved ones. They are loving, patient, knowledgeable and extremely detail oriented. They have decades of experience in the customer service industry and truly value the relationships with each of their clients.”
“I've known Christine and Ricky Johnson for more than 30 years and would highly recommend their services! They've built businesses from the ground up and this one is / will be a perfect fit for them and their clients. They come from, and have created, a large family where assisting others is part of their everyday lives. Their caring nature, solid work ethic and integrity will be highlighted through Always Best Care Senior Services Charleston and will be to the benefit of clients' loved ones.”
“I joined Always Best Care as the Director of Operations about 3 months ago. I bring 15 years experience in senior living to this brand new non medical home care company. We have put together an excellent team of personal assistant’s and are ready to accept new clients.”
“I have known Christine and Rick for years. Their actions and words repeatedly demonstrate their high expectation of what it takes to nurture a loving family and to be active members of a positive, supportive community. Both clients and employees will benefit from their consistent standard of compassionate honesty & integrity as well as the positive energy they bring to every encounter. I recommend them without reservation.”
“I couldn't be happier that Ricky and Christine Johnson have joined Always Best Care Senior Services. From years of experience in dedicated customer service to the love and care of their own (and extended) family, this is a wonderful fit! The Johnson's tireless work ethic, attention to detail and heart for people should give family members of clients absolute confidence and trust in their care. Bravo!”
“How fortunate the Charleston community is to have Always Best Care to serve the needs of seniors. Rick and Christine Johnson, known for their dedication to helping others, have prayerfully commited to finding and nurturing the best team possible to assist them on this mission. Thank you, Rick and Christine, for offering families peace of mind for the care of loved ones.”
“I have known Christine and Rick Johnson both professionally and personally for over 20 years now. I know them to be caring and loving. I with no reservations would have them care for my 93 year old father, If I still lived in the Charleston area. I can not state a higher praise to their character and integrity than that. Allen Sandridge”
Home is where the heart is. While that saying can sound a tad cliche, it is especially true for many seniors living in America. When given a choice, older adults most often prefer to grow older at home. An AARP study found that three out of four adults over the age of 50 want to stay in their homes and communities as they age.
When you begin to think about why, it makes sense. Home offers a sense of security, comfort, and familiarity.
The truth is, as we age, we begin to rely on others for help. When a family is too busy or lives too far away to fulfill this role, in-home senior care is often the best solution. Home care services allow seniors to enjoy personal independence while also receiving trustworthy assistance from a trained caregiver.
At Always Best Care, we offer a comprehensive range of home care services to help seniors stay healthy while they get the help they need to remain independent. As your senior loved one gets older, giving them the gift of senior care is one of the best ways to show your love, even if you live far away.
To give our senior clients the best care possible, we offer a full spectrum of in-home care services:
If your senior loved one has specific care needs, our personal care services are a great choice to consider. Personal care includes the standard caregiving duties associated with companion care and includes help with tasks such as dressing and grooming. Personal care can also help individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes.
Common personal care services include assistance with:
Sometimes, seniors need helpful reminders to maintain a high quality of life at home. If you or your senior has trouble with everyday tasks like cooking, our home helper services will be very beneficial.
Common home helper care services include assistance with:
Using this kind of care is a fantastic way to make life easier for you or your senior loved one. At Always Best Care, our talented caregivers often fill the role of a companion for seniors. That way, older adults can enjoy their favorite local activities, such as visiting Isle of Palms County Park with friends while also receiving the care they need daily or weekly.
Common companionship services include:
According to AARP, more than 53 million adults living in the U.S. provide care to someone over 50 years old. Unfortunately, these caregivers experience stress, exhaustion, and even depression. Our respite care services help family caregivers address urgent obligations, spend time with their children, and enjoy nearby activities. Perhaps more importantly, respite care gives family members time to recharge and regroup. Taking personal time to de-stress reduces the risk of caregiver burnout. So, if you've always wanted to eat at the local Coda Del Pesce or visit Charles Pinckney National Historic Site, don't feel bad. Doing so is great for both you and your loved one.
At the end of the day, our goal is to become a valuable part of your senior's daily routine. That way, we may help give them the highest quality of life possible. We know that staying at home is important for your loved one, and we are here to help make sure that is possible.
If you have been on the fence about non-medical home care, there has never been a better time than now to give your senior the care, assistance, and companionship they deserve.
Always Best Care in-home services are for older adults who prefer to stay at home but need ongoing care that friends and family cannot provide. In-home care is a safe, effective way for seniors to age gracefully in a familiar place and live independent, non-institutionalized lives. The benefits of non-medical home care are numerous. Here are just a few reasons to consider senior care services from Always Best Care:
According to AARP, 9 out of 10 seniors prefer to age in place within the comfort of their own home. With in-home care, seniors have a way to stay at home, receive the care they need, and maintain a sense of independence, improving overall wellness.
If you or a member of your family have assumed the role of caregiver for your senior loved one, you know how stressful the job can be. Between caregiver burnout and constant worry, being a family caregiver is hard. In-home care relieves your burden and gives you peace of mind knowing that your older family member is in expert hands.
Unlike nursing homes, where the staff and residents rotate frequently, seniors can foster new friendships and build bonds with their caregiver. Seniors who socialize on a regular basis are often happier, which fosters positivity and leads to increased wellbeing.
No two seniors need the same kind of in-home care assistance. That is why each of our Care Plans is tailored to meet our client's individual needs. We offer plans that cover everything from light housekeeping to more involved duties like transportation to doctor's appointments. Our Care Coordinators will work closely with you to develop a personalized plan to ensure your senior's needs are exceeded.
Always Best Care offers a full array of care options for patients at all levels of health. With our trusted elderly care services, your loved one will receive the level of care necessary for them to enjoy the highest possible quality of life.
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While it's true that some seniors have complicated medical needs that prevent them from staying at home, aging in place is often the best arrangement for seniors and their families. With a trusted caregiver, seniors have the opportunity to live with a sense of dignity and do so as they see fit - something that is unavailable to many older people today.
In-home care makes it possible for millions of seniors to age in place every year. Rather than moving to a strange nursing home, seniors have the chance to stay at home where they feel the happiest and most comfortable.
How much does a senior's home truly mean to them?
A study published by the American Society on Aging found that more than half of seniors say their home's emotional value means more than how much their home is worth in monetary value. It stands to reason, then, that a senior's home is where they want to grow old.
With the help of elderly care in Isle of Palms, SC, seniors don't have to age in a sterilized care facility. Instead, they can age gracefully in the place they want to be most: their home. In contrast, seniors who move to a long-term care facility must adapt to new environments, new people, and new systems that the facility implements. At this stage in life, this kind of drastic change can be more harmful than helpful.
Institutional care facilities like nursing homes often put large groups of people together to live in one location. On any given day, dozens of staff members and caregivers run in and out of these facilities. Being around so many new people in a relatively small living environment can be dangerous for a seniors' health and wellbeing. When you consider that thousands of seniors passed away in nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic, opting for in-home care is often a safer, healthier choice for seniors.
Aging in place has been shown to improve seniors' quality of life, which helps boost physical health and also helps insulate them from viral and bacterial risks found in elderly living facilities.
For many seniors, the ability to live independently with assistance from a caregiver is a priceless option. With in-home care, seniors experience a higher level of independence and freedom - much more so than in other settings like a nursing home. When a senior has the chance to age in place, they get to live life on their own terms, inside the house that they helped make into a home. More independence means more control over their personal lives, too, which leads to increased levels of fulfillment, happiness, and personal gratification. Over time, these positive feelings can manifest into a healthier, longer life.
More independence, a healthier life, and increased comfort are only a few benefits of aging in place. You have to take into consideration the role of cost and convenience. Simply put, it's usually easier and more affordable to help seniors age in place than it is to move them into an institutional care facility. According to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, seniors who age in the comfort of their homes can save thousands of dollars per month.
In-home care services from Always Best Care, for instance, are often less expensive than long-term solutions, which can cost upwards of six figures per year. To make matters worse, many residential care facilities are reluctant to accept long-term care insurance and other types of payment assistance.
With Always Best Care's home care services, seniors and their families have a greater level of control over their care plans. In-home care gives seniors the chance to form a bond with a trusted caregiver and also receive unmatched care that is catered to their needs. In long-term care facilities, seniors and their loved ones have much less control over their care plan and have less of a say in who provides their care.
In-home care is a valuable resource that empowers seniors to age in place on their own terms. However, a big concern for many families and their loved ones is how much in-home care costs. If you're worried that in-home care is too expensive, you may be pleasantly surprised to learn that it is one of the most affordable senior care arrangements available.
Typically, hiring an Always Best Care in-home caregiver for a few hours a week is more affordable than sending your loved one to a long-term care facility. This is true even for seniors with more complex care needs.
At Always Best Care, we will work closely with you and your family to develop a Care Plan that not only meets your care needs, but your budget requirements, too. Once we discover the level of care that you or your senior need, we develop an in-home care plan that you can afford.
In addition to our flexible care options, families should also consider the following resources to help offset potential home care costs:
When you or your senior loved one needs assistance managing daily tasks at home, finding a qualified caregiver can be challenging. It takes a special kind of person to provide reliable care for your senior loved one. However, a caregiver's role involves more than meal preparation and medication reminders. Many seniors rely on their caregivers for companionship, too.
Our companion care services give seniors the chance to socialize in a safe environment and engage in activities at home. These important efforts boost morale and provide much-needed relief from repetitive daily routines. A one-on-one, engaging conversation can sharpen seniors' minds and give them something in which to be excited.
At Always Best Care, we only hire care providers that we would trust to care for our own loved ones. Our senior caregivers in Isle of Palms, SC understand how important it is to listen and communicate with their seniors. A seemingly small interaction, like a short hug goodbye, can make a major difference in a senior's day. Instead of battling against feelings of isolation, seniors begin to look forward to seeing their caregiver each week.
Understanding the nuances of senior care is just one of the reasons why our care providers are so great at their job.
Unlike some senior care companies, our caregivers must undergo extensive training before they work for Always Best Care. In addition, our caregivers receive ongoing training throughout the year. This training ensures that their standard of care matches up to the high standards we've come to expect. During this training, they will brush up on their communication skills, safety awareness, and symptom spotting. That way, your loved one receives the highest level of non-medical home care from day one.
While it's true that many seniors prefer to age at home, sometimes in-home care isn't the best fit. For those seniors and their families, choosing an assisted living facility makes more sense. Unfortunately, finding the optimal care facility is easier said than done in today's day and age. That's when Always Best Care's assisted living referral services begin to make a lot of sense.
Assisted living is a form of housing intended for seniors who require varying degrees of medical and personal attention. Accommodations may include single rooms, apartments, or shared living arrangements. Assisted living communities are typically designed to resemble a home-like environment and are physically constructed to encourage the independence of residents.
At assisted living communities, seniors receive help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating. They may also benefit from coordination of services with outside healthcare providers, and monitoring of resident activities to ensure their health, safety, and well-being. Caregivers who work at assisted living communities can also provide medication administration and personal care services for older adults.
Other services offered within assisted living communities can include some or all of the following:
At Always Best Care, our representatives can match your senior's emotional, physical, and financial needs with viable assisted living communities nearby. Results are based on comparative data, so you can select the best choice for you or your loved one.
Always Best Care works closely with local senior living communities to gain valuable knowledge that we then use to help seniors and their loved ones make informed decisions. This information can include basic care and rent, resident availability, and services provided. Because Always Best Care is compensated by these communities, we provide senior living referral services at no extra cost to you.
Some of the most popular assisted living communities to consider in our area include the following:
For many seniors, moving into a senior living community revolves around how and when they want to make a transition to more involved care. Some seniors are more proactive about transitioning to independent living. Others choose to remain home until their care needs or other requirements are satisfied. Remember - our staff is here to help. Contact our office today to learn more about assisted living communities and how we can find a facility that exceeds your expectations.
The first step in getting quality in-home care starts with a personal consultation with an experienced Always Best Care Care Coordinator. This initial consultation is crucial for our team to learn more about you or your elderly loved one to discover the level of care required. Topics of this consultation typically include:
A discussion of your needs and how our trained caregivers can offer assistance in the most effective way
A draft of your care plan, which includes highly detailed notes and a framework for the care that you or your senior will receive
Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider
Our caregivers are trained to spot changes that clients exhibit, like mental and physical decline. As your trusted senior care company, we will constantly assess and update your Care Plan to meet any new emotional, intellectual, physical, and emotional needs.
If you have never considered in-home care before, we understand that you and your family may have concerns about your Care Plan and its Care Coordinator. To help give you peace of mind, know that every team member and caregiver must undergo comprehensive training before being assigned to a Care Plan.
At the end of the day, we only hire the best of the best at Always Best Care. Whether you need home care in Isle of Palms, SC 24-hours a day or only need a respite for a couple of hours, we are here to serve you.
When you're ready, we encourage you to contact your local Always Best Care representative to set up a Care Consultation. Our Care Coordinators would be happy to meet with you in person to get to know you better, discuss your needs, and help put together a personalized Care Plan specific to your needs.
MOUNT PLEASANT — The free beach shuttle to the Isle of Palms that CARTA operates will return for a fifth year.Parking fees on Isle of Palms are going up for the first time in five years — now costing up to $25 during peak beach season — but beachgoers will still have a free way to get to the beach. CARTA's Beach Reach route starts from the Mount Pleasant Towne Cen...
MOUNT PLEASANT — The free beach shuttle to the Isle of Palms that CARTA operates will return for a fifth year.
Parking fees on Isle of Palms are going up for the first time in five years — now costing up to $25 during peak beach season — but beachgoers will still have a free way to get to the beach. CARTA's Beach Reach route starts from the Mount Pleasant Towne Centre to Ocean Boulevard — right outside the entrance of Isle of Palms County Park.
This year, the shuttle will be on a trolley bus the Berkeley-Charleston-Dorchester Council of Governments purchased in late 2024.
The shuttle route was first approved in 2021 after the state Department of Transportation told city officials to roll back plans eliminating free beach parking for nonresidents. CARTA's strategy to transport people from Towne Centre to Isle of Palms helps alleviate the parking issue.
The CARTA board unanimously voted at their March 19 meeting to continue the Beach Reach.
In 2024, Beach Reach carried 703 riders, a slight decrease from the 795 riders in 2023. CARTA board Chair Mike Seekings told The Post and Courier ridership can vary throughout the summer because of the weather.
He added he's glad to see the route return for "season five," and called it a natural choice for CARTA to implement the shuttle so people have free access to a beach.
"In today’s day and age, where parking is expensive the closer you get to the shoreline and getting to and from (the beach) can be a challenge, having someone drive you ... drop you right off at the entrance to the county park with the beach nothing but 100 yards away?" Seekings said. "It’s really a great resource for people."
CARTA board member Daniel Brownstein supports the Beach Reach, and has pushed for an additional stop to Sullivan’s Island for the past year.
"I think that’s the missing piece of the puzzle," Brownstein told The Post and Courier.
Brownstein said the route could be a circle, starting in Mount Pleasant Towne Centre to Isle of Palms then to Sullivan’s Island and back. He believes it would not only increase ridership but also solve parking challenges on Sullivan’s Island.
Seekings said he'd support a Sullivan's Island stop as long as the shuttle remains "as quick and easy as possible" for riders.
Isle of Palms wasn't always the only beach route for CARTA. According to Seekings, there was a route to Folly Beach several years ago but the ridership was lower than expected. Although it was a regular route and not just for summer months, the route was discontinued due to lack of success.
Seekings said the board will keep an eye on the situation and see if a shuttle to Folly Beach is viable in the future.
The Beach Reach will start on Memorial Day and run every weekend until Labor Day, running on both Memorial Day and Labor Day. The first trip on Saturdays is at 9:15 a.m. and last at 5:15 p.m., and the first trip on Sundays is at 9:40 a.m. and last at 5:40 p.m.
A judge has ruled against two Isle of Palms property owners who challenged the state’s authority to stop construction of seawalls that worsen erosion of the public beach.In an unexpectedly strong opinion that supports the state’s 37-year-old beach protection law, Judge Ralph King Anderson III said South Carolina has authority over all areas of the sandy beach, despite arguments by the property owners that it does not.The preliminary ruling is not the final word on the issue, but it gives an idea of how he interprets...
A judge has ruled against two Isle of Palms property owners who challenged the state’s authority to stop construction of seawalls that worsen erosion of the public beach.
In an unexpectedly strong opinion that supports the state’s 37-year-old beach protection law, Judge Ralph King Anderson III said South Carolina has authority over all areas of the sandy beach, despite arguments by the property owners that it does not.
The preliminary ruling is not the final word on the issue, but it gives an idea of how he interprets the coastal law as his court prepares to hear the property owners’ full legal challenge over seawall construction next week.
Landowners Rom and Renee Reddy, who live on the beach at the lower end of the Isle of Palms, have challenged a $289,000 state fine over construction of a seawall they built along the shore in 2023.
The Reddys contend that it was their right to build the structure, which protected their home from the ocean, because the part of the beach where the wall was constructed is not within state jurisdiction. They also claim the state’s action against them amounts to taking their private property.
But Anderson’s ruling said the state has jurisdiction over that part of the beach, noting that the Department of Environmental Services “had the authority to impose the administrative order against’’ the Reddys. His ruling denied the Reddy’s request to overturn the fine before the full trial was held.
Leslie Lenhardt, a lawyer involved in the case on behalf of environmentalists, cheered Anderson’s April 24 ruling.
“It’s an extremely positive ruling in that Judge Anderson made a legal conclusion that DES has jurisdiction,’’ she said. “That’s a real affirmation – and that’s great news.’’
The Reddy’s trial is scheduled to start Tuesday, May 6 at the Administrative Law Court in Columbia. Lenhardt pointed out that the case still must go to trial and the outcome of the DES enforcement case is not settled.
Rom Reddy, a wealthy owner of small newspapers and outspoken supporter of President Donald Trump, said he doesn’t think he’ll win his case when the trial is concluded in the administrative law court. But Reddy said he’s prepared to appeal any unfavorable decision to the state Supreme Court. He said he is planning a federal lawsuit and expects his legal case will eventually be decided by the U.S. Supreme Court. The Reddys have the support of David Lucas, a coastal property owner who won a similar legal case more than 30 years ago.
“This is not justice but tyranny,’’ Reddy said in a text to The State newspaper. “Ultimately, this is a question of whether a government can confiscate a citizen’s land in the name of environmental protection with no compensation.’’
Reddy expressed his displeasure with the administrative law court system, in which judges rule on disputed environmental cases. He said he deserves a jury trial, not “a trial by a judge who is part of the unelected agency state that accused and convicted me of wrongdoing with no due process.’’
Anderson has a reputation as a judge sympathetic to property rights who often rules against conservation and citizens’ groups seeking to stop state approval of environmental permits. That’s why the strong wording in his decision surprised conservationists and others who are following the case.
Department of Environmental Services officials have said little publicly about the case, but maintain in court documents their actions were legal under South Carolina law.
Reddy is so upset about the state’s dealings with him that he started a political action committee that favors cutting regulations and slashing the government workforce, as the Trump administration is doing at the federal level. He also has spoken against the confirmation of Myra Reece, the DES interim director whose agency fined him $289,000.
According to court documents, the Reddys hired a contractor about two years ago to fill in 1,255 square feet of beach and build a hard erosion control structure, a government term referring to a seawall or bulkhead.
The structure was built after state officials learned of the Reddys’ plans and warned them not to move forward, a state enforcement document shows.
New seawalls on jurisdictional areas of the beach have been illegal since 1988. Reddy told South Carolina regulators he was trying to repair his yard from damage that occurred from a lack of protective dunes near the ocean.
The issue, which has sparked debate in the state Legislature, centers on sections of the seashore that fall outside of building restriction lines established decades ago to keep construction back from the oceanfront.
Enacted through a landmark 1988 law, the lines are intended to make sure new buildings and seawalls are not constructed so close to the ocean that they are hit by waves that worsen erosion of the public beach and damage seaside properties.
Now, parts of the state’s beaches have shifted inland of the building restriction lines, exposing sandy areas of seashore. The Reddys and their supporters say the state doesn’t have authority in the areas outside the restrictive lines. They note that the Legislature has made changes to the law in recent years.
The state’s argument boils down to this: Regardless of the location of the building restriction lines – known as setbacks and baselines – any area that becomes part of the sandy beach falls within state oversight as a result of South Carolina’s 1988 law.
Anderson’s ruling backed that argument. He said beaches include all seaside lands where the ocean regularly washes. Those are sandy areas where most vegetation cannot survive because salt water is toxic to many plants.
Anderson wrote that DES “undeniably has jurisdiction ... even if such lands fall landward of the setback line.’’
Lenhardt said the ruling is encouraging because Reddy’s legal case threatened the state’s long-standing beach protection law. The law allows for state jurisdiction of all sandy beach areas, not just those on the oceanside of building restriction lines, she said.
That’s important because beaches are eroding as sea level rise continues. The emergence of sandy beach areas landward of the building restriction lines demonstrates that shorelines are subject to change and property owners need to be aware of that, she said.
“With all this erosion from climate change and sea level rise, there is more and more often critical area (in state jurisdiction) landward of the setback line,’’ Lenhardt said.
This story was originally published April 29, 2025 at 8:20 AM.
April 28, 2025 9:52 AM
April 25, 2025 5:00 AM
The State
Sammy Fretwell has covered the environment beat for The State since 1995. He writes about an array of issues, including wildlife, climate change, energy, state environmental policy, nuclear waste and coastal development. He has won numerous awards, including Journalist of the Year by the S.C. Press Association in 2017. Fretwell is a University of South Carolina graduate who grew up in Anderson County. Reach him at 803 771 8537. Support my work with a digital subscription
The clear float of a Man-o-war jellyfish rests on the sand after it was left stranded high and dry by the high tide. (Photo: National Park Service/Nathaniel Pinson)0LOWCOUNTRY, S.C. (WCIV) — If you've been for a stroll along some Lowcountry beaches in recent weeks, you may have come across a few jellyfish washed up on shore. Most of the jellyfish you see in South Carolina are harmless, but some should be left alone.Officials with the Lowcountry's local beach communities want locals and visitors alike to know what t...
The clear float of a Man-o-war jellyfish rests on the sand after it was left stranded high and dry by the high tide. (Photo: National Park Service/Nathaniel Pinson)
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LOWCOUNTRY, S.C. (WCIV) — If you've been for a stroll along some Lowcountry beaches in recent weeks, you may have come across a few jellyfish washed up on shore. Most of the jellyfish you see in South Carolina are harmless, but some should be left alone.
Officials with the Lowcountry's local beach communities want locals and visitors alike to know what to look out for when heading out into the ocean.
The Charleston area starts to see a larger amount of Cannonball jellyfish in the spring, which are the most common jelly in South Carolina -and least venomous.
“Cannonballs are largely harmless to humans and they're a favorite food of leatherback sea turtles," Erin Weeks with the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources explained. "Typically, when cannonballs appear, we know leatherbacks are not far behind. Like other jellies, cannonballs are poor swimmers that follow where ocean currents push them; thus, they often wash ashore, especially after offshore storms.”
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Jellyfish glide through the currents and end up washing up on shore. Some are more notorious than others.
Portuguese man o’ wars look like jellyfish, but they are actually just a relative, are bit more complex, and can be more harmful.
“Portuguese man o' wars are less frequently seen in the warmer months but merit greater caution," Weeks said. "These animals are easily distinguished by a bright blue, inflated 'float' that rests on the surface of the water, and they should be avoided both on the beach and in the water. Man o' wars can trail long tentacles that cause a very painful sting.”
Man o' wars tend to drift through the Gulf Stream up to the waters off the coast of the Palmetto State.
To prevent getting stung, avoid touching washed up Man o’ wars, as they are still venomous. If you are stung seek medical help immediately.
For more information on jellyfish from the SCDNR, click here.
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Officials said reporting sightings of jellyfish help prevent stings. To report a jellyfish sighting contact the Folly Beach Fire Department at 843-588-2433 on Folly Beach, the Sullivan's Island Fire Department at 843-883-9944 on Sullivan's Island, or the Isle of Palms Fire Department at 843-886-4410 on Isle of Palms.
ISLE OF PALMS, S.C. (WCSC) - A new plan would build a temporary buffer between at-risk homes and nature-driven erosion, heightened by storm surges and changing tides along the beachfront.Shoal management projects happen every five to 10 years, when a shoal or forms across the shoreline and creates stronger erosion because of the location of breaking water. While the movement of the sandbar is slow, the impact can accelerate problems and risks for homes.Isle of Palms Mayor Phillip Pounds said it has sprouted a hotspot for homes ...
ISLE OF PALMS, S.C. (WCSC) - A new plan would build a temporary buffer between at-risk homes and nature-driven erosion, heightened by storm surges and changing tides along the beachfront.
Shoal management projects happen every five to 10 years, when a shoal or forms across the shoreline and creates stronger erosion because of the location of breaking water. While the movement of the sandbar is slow, the impact can accelerate problems and risks for homes.
Isle of Palms Mayor Phillip Pounds said it has sprouted a hotspot for homes in the Wild Dunes resort area, located on the left end of the beach. The back-facing sides of those Beachwood East properties are covered in large sandbags, water crashing up to the stilts holding homes high.
“It’s about four or five houses, really like a fire hose coming out of the ocean, all directed right here,” Pounds said. “We are facilitating and moving that sand faster than nature might move it, we are going to harvest a decent amount of sand and pull it up right behind us to protect these houses.”
The shoal management project is meant to serve as an “interim” as the city prepares for a larger renourishment project being designed and permitted. This would be the first since 2018.
Unlike projects on two-thirds of the shoreline, this project is located on Wild Dunes property. The cost, close to $800,000, comes from their bidding.
Pounds estimates the shoal management portion to use between 120,000 and 130,000 cubic yards of sand, while the main renourishment would use more than a million.
Ted Caudill finds his peace as a local of 43 years while walking the beachfront, listening to chirping birds and crashing waves.
“It’s kind of an escape from life on days like this. To be retired and have the privilege to come here when it looks good. The beach restores the soul,” Caudill says.
He asks the beach be given the same consideration as other destination communities working to fuel the economic industry for the state of South Carolina.
“Whatever comes downtown that gets promoted, we don’t talk about the beaches and the life it has,” Caudill says. “It is a major draw to a lot of people and if we don’t do that, we lose the charm of where we live.”
The city hopes to kickstart the project this month.
It will pause at the end of May for turtle season until around September.
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