Meet Sylvia Pate

My journey through life has been filled with cherished memories and a strong commitment to family, community, and the beauty of Holden Beach. My family's connection to Holden Beach runs deep, dating back to 1968 when my in-laws first acquired their family beach cottage. The sands, the sea, and the tranquility have been a constant backdrop to our lives. Up until recently, my husband, George, and I were the proud owners of one of the oldest houses on Holden Beach. However, change is an essential part of life, and we decided to embrace it by transitioning to "canal life" by moving to one of the canal streets. The change of pace has brought us newfound joy, and we're savoring every moment of this chapter.

My heart swells with pride when I speak of my family. I am blessed with a daughter, Lisa, who is joined in life by her husband, Chad and I have the incredible gift of three grandchildren – Mikayla, Tatum, and Elijah. Their recent move to Holden Beach has made our family bonds even stronger. My husband has 3 cousins that have homes at Holden Beach but that's not all – my Sister-in-Law, Elizabeth, has also built a home here, turning Holden Beach into a true family haven.

As I reflect on my journey, I am reminded of my roots in Myrtle Beach, where I grew up in a time vastly different from today. Nevertheless, the memory that remains etched in my mind is the first time my husband brought me across the bridge to Holden Beach – a moment that felt like stepping into heaven. That was 32 years ago, and my love for this place has only grown since.

Holden Beach isn't just a destination; it's a part of who I am. That's why I've chosen to run for Commissioner. I intend to give back to this extraordinary town that holds a special place in all our hearts.

Sylvia Pate

View my Resume

How Does My Experience Make Me The Best Voice For Our Town?

My professional journey has been diverse and enriching. I retired from the University of NC at Pembroke in 2011, where I served as Director of the Regional Center for Economic, Community & Professional Development. A second career beckoned, and I became a Realtor®, currently serving as a Broker/REALTOR® at PROACTIVE Real Estate. Prior to this, I worked with various local government entities, delving into planning, workforce development, housing, and more. My experiences include strategic planning, grant administration, budget management, and team leadership.

Education has been a cornerstone of my growth. I hold a Master of Science Degree in Organizational Leadership and Management from the University of NC Pembroke, a Bachelor of Science Degree from Western Carolina University in Special Studies (Occupational Education/Human Resource Development), and an Associate of Applied Science Degree in Vocational Instruction. My pursuit of knowledge has been unceasing, marked by completion of leadership development programs and a hunger to learn.

In the realm of community service, I've been actively involved. I currently serve on the Planning and Zoning Board for the Town of Holden Beach and the Grievance Committee for Brunswick County Association of Realtors. Past roles include serving as President of the UNC Pembroke Alumni Association and Chair for the Partnership for Children, among others. These efforts have been recognized, notably with awards like the NC Governor's Award for Job Training Professional of the Year in Policy and Management and UNC Pembroke’s Graduate Student of the Year for Public Administration.

I invite you to learn more about my background through my in-depth biography included in a link on this page.

Together, we can shape the future of Holden Beach, preserving its essence and continuing the family-friendly environment for generations to come. With your support, I aim to be "Your Voice for Our Town" and humbly request your vote for Commissioner in the upcoming election.

What is My Position on Local Issues Important to Our Residents?

My vision for Holden Beach is grounded in five key issue areas:

1. Strategic Planning: I believe that the town needs a comprehensive strategic plan, driven by the needs and desires of its constituents, to guide decision-making and avoid piecemeal solutions which will drive responsible growth.

• It should be top priority to develop a strategic plan such that we have a plan that reflects the needs of the Town to operate, constituent’s desires and a willingness to support the plan.
  
• This will eliminate making decisions as issues come up and assure that our initiatives correspond with the vision of the property owners of Holden Beach.

2. Communications: I believe there is a need to explore diverse communication channels ensuring all property owners can stay informed and be heard to ensure transparent and effective communications.

• Not just listen but really hear opinions and concerns of all property owners such that decisions can be made reflecting the best interest of the whole community.
  
• Purchase a cost effective, technology-driven system to provide coverage of meetings so everyone can be seen and heard.
• Examine and implement additional communication strategies to provide updates/information as well as solicit input from not just full-time property owners, but all property owners.
• Stop operating in isolation by possibly partnering more with neighboring towns or Brunswick County on projects.
• Create an advocacy strategy with legislators at the State and Federal level for continued funding opportunities but also support of Town initiatives.
  

3. Finance and Budgeting: I support ensuring financial accountability with prudent spending and excellent financial management, aligned with strategic plan and prioritized capital projects.

• Committment to frugal spending, understanding we must spend what is necessary to meet the needs of the Town as identified through established strategic planning and goals.
  
• Prioritization of capital outlay projects is necessary due to limited resources.
• Treat the budget like my own personal budget which would be a bit conservative and expectation there will excellent accounting of finances and a clean audit.

4. Infrastructure and Environmental Sustainability: I am dedicated to the protection of natural resources and coastal environment which is important for us to ensure we have a healthy and resilient environment for future generations.

• The beach and overall coastal environment is obviously one of our greatest assets so ensuring policies and resources are continued to protect the beach and natural resources is imperative.
  
• Beach renourishment as well as dredging the canals and Lockwood Folly Inlet must be continued.
• Discussions need to be held regarding the relationship with the Army Corps of Engineers vs FEMA in addressing issues.
• Address the water and sewer challenges with upgrading of Sewer Lift Station 2 as top priority and hopefully with Federal and State appropriations. Examine water study solutions for possible implementation once study is complete.
• Address stormwater management issues upon completion of study analysis with commitment to consideration of viable solutions and resources identified to address the solutions.
• Support policies and ordinances in place relative to new development and renovations and in compliance with the land use plan.
• Continued support of paid parking with a revisit for consideration of free parking for property owners.
  

5. Recreation and Tourism: I support a comprehensive recreation and tourism plan, focused on priorities to meet the needs of the community and property owner desires while preserving the character of the Town.

• Re-examine the Comprehensive Recreation and Tourism Plan to obtain needed buy-in as some priorities many need to be deleted, amended or added, especially given the Town has acquired several large parcels that perhaps should become part of the overall plan.
  
• Continue support of the Pier/Land Project purchase though not without controversy. However, since we now own this property, going forward, do the needed renovations/repairs to get the pier open by Summer of 2024 as well as the emeregency access installed. Additional Development should be completed in stages based on resource availability with solicited property owner input as to what they are willing to support.
• Block Q, a nice tract of land, can be used for many purposes but should not be developed hapazardly and without property owner input. I support use of the property for new restrooms, additional handicap parking and identified additional vehicle/boat trailer parking but it should not be turned into a huge parking lot. I would also support moving the Pavilion there.
  

Why Should You Vote for Sylvia Pate to Serve as Town Commissioner?

My unique blend of experience, education, community involvement, and passion make me an ideal choice for Town Commissioner. With over 35 years of experience in economic, community, and workforce development, I possess the skills needed to make informed decisions for the betterment of Holden Beach.

I am committed to maintaining the town's family-oriented character while responsibly embracing change. My leadership, collaboration, problem-solving, and strategic planning abilities will make me an effective Commissioner. I consider myself to be a person with high integrity and believe in being honest and ethical and if a conflict of interest situation should arise, I would recuse myself.

I feel that my candidacy promises a bright future for Holden Beach. I am committed to working tirelessly, conducting thorough research, and seeking community input to make decisions that benefit all residents. I am dedicated to Holden Beach and not just interested in maintaining the status quo. As much as we hate change, it is inevitable but while embracing it, we can plan for it more strategically which allows for responsible growth. I desire to be involved in leading our Town towards a future wherein the Town of Holden Beach is highly respected, sustainable, inclusive for all, but maintains the character that makes Holden Beach a special, family-oriented place.

I thank you for considering me as the candidate you choose for the open, unexpired term. I believe that together we can ensure that our town has a bright future, but I need your support and ask for you to vote for me on election day.

Let Me Be Your Voice for Our Town~~Let’s shape the future of Holden Beach together.

Endorsements

Sylvia’s professional experience and education makes her an outstanding candidate for Town of Holden Beach Commissioner. Sylvia always seeks solutions that are within the best interest of Holden Beach homeowners. (Phil and Mary Gerlach-227 Ocean Blvd W, Holden Beach)

Absentee voting begins October 6th.

Request your ballot by October 31st and postmark it no later than November 7th.

Vote early between Oct. 19th and November 4th.

Polls will be open 6:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. on election day, November 7th.