Rusty Streetman wins special election for Isle of Palms city council seat

ISLE OF PALMS, S.C. (WCBD) — A familiar face is returning to the Isle of Palms city council following Tuesday’s special election runoff.

Rusty Streetman defeated Susan Hill Smith by 30 votes, according to unofficial results from the South Carolina Election Commission.

The candidates, both former councilmembers, advanced to the runoff after no one earned more than 50% of the vote during the Nov. 5 general election.

Streetman campaigned on improving storm drainage efficiency, traffic flow, creating better solutions for parking, waterway maintenance, and beach restoration. Public safety and developing resources to accommodate tourism growth on the island were also highlighted as top priorities.

He will serve the remainder of outgoing Councilwoman Elizabeth Campsen’s term, who resigned in August after announcing plans to move off the island in 2025.

Isle of Palms city council is comprised of the mayor and eight councilmembers, who serve staggered four-year terms. City council elections are non-partisan.