Supporters of staying annexed argue we should continue paying increasing taxes because future growth will eventually justify today's spending. They claim Holly Ridge will create 3,000 new jobs and add 50 businesses over the next five years. While everyone would welcome that success, residents must evaluate such projections against actual results. The reality is that Holly Ridge and the surrounding area have recently experienced setbacks rather than major employment expansion.

J&J Snack Foods closed its local facility. UPS backed away from a previously discussed project. Gulfstream Steel now faces significant uncertainty following recent federal convictions and debarment from federal contracts, which is a primary source of their income. Meanwhile, vacant commercial buildings remain, planned projects have stalled, the former medical building is becoming increasingly dilapidated, and Holly Plaza continues to be an eyesore and a concern of future liability.

Summerhouse property values have largely increased despite—not necessarily because of—municipal growth initiatives. Our community's value has been driven by its waterfront location, amenities, HOA investments, private infrastructure, community maintenance, and the broader coastal real estate market. Residents have funded and protected those values themselves. Equating Summerhouse property appreciation directly with Holly Ridge government spending is a nonsensical argument, as many of the factors driving demand for our community operate independently of town government.

Good government is not measured by how much money it collects. It is measured by how effectively it uses taxpayer dollars. Every family and business must justify increased spending when costs rise. Holly Ridge should be held to the same standard.

Residents are increasingly being told they should continue paying more taxes to help prevent future decline in Holly Ridge. But Summerhouse has been paying those taxes for nearly twenty years. What measurable return has the community received, and why should residents be expected to continue funding future promises when past results have fallen short of expectations?

This effort is not political; it is not anti-Holly Ridge, and it is not driven by a dislike of the town's elected officials. It is about the town's fiscal responsibility and its impact on our community and residents.

Accountability matters. Transparency matters. Taxpayers matter.