Isle of Palms councilmember resigns over change in residency

ISLE OF PALMS, S.C. (WCBD)- An Isle of Palms councilwoman resigned from her post last week, announcing that she plans to move off the island next year.

In an Aug. 9 email, Elizabeth Campsen said she and her husband bought a home outside of the city that they intend to make their primary residence beginning in 2025.

“This move was certainly nothing we planned,” Campsen wrote in the email obtained by News 2. “However, when an off-market possibility presented itself, [my husband] and I knew it was an opportunity we had to take.”

Campsen said her resignation would be effective immediately to “align the municipal election for the seat I hold with the upcoming general election.”

“I hope this timing will drive good turnout for the previously unscheduled municipal election,” she added.

Campsen was elected to the city council last November. She previously served as Chair for the city’s Board of Zoning Appeals.

“I hope the contributions I have made over the years as a resident, Board of Zoning Appeals member and Councilmember have had an impact,” she continued in her email. “I have always enjoyed engaging in the process and always tried to do my best.”

A special election to fill the seat will be held on Nov. 5, according to Charleston County election officials.

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.

The South Carolina Constitution states that council members must be residents of the municipality or district they represent.