403 Butler Avenue
Tybee Island, GA 31328
tel. (912)786-4573

Better Hometown Program

Mission and Vision

 

 
Vision:

To improve the quality of life for those that live, work and visit Tybee Island through a healthy business corridor and enhance the cultural experience while preserving the community's barrier island heritage.

 

Mission Statement:

The Mission of the Tybee Island Better Hometown Program is to:

- facilitate efforts to revitalize, redevelop and enhance the business corridor;

- create a sense of place and improve the quality of life for residents, business owners and visitors using the Main Street Four Point Approach;

- encourage quality economic growth and development while preserving Tybee Island's unique architectural heritage;

- support and encourage the arts as a cultural endeavor and economic engine on the Island.


This effort takes support and assistance from all. Therefore, Committees are forming to help with the foundation of the proven "Main Street four-point approach" tailored to meet local needs and opportunities. The four points are Organization, Promotion, Design and Economic Restructuring. The four points are combined to address all of the commercial district's needs.
 
Sign up for the monthly BHT E-NEWSLETTER.   
 
Check out current information about the Program & the Main Corridor on Facebook by clicking here.
 
For more information regarding the Board of Directors click here
  

Savannah-Tybee Beach Shuttle
The shuttle leaves from the Savannah Visitors Center Sundays through Thursdays at 10:00am, 12:00pm, 2:00pm, and 5:00pm* and Fridays through Saturdays 10:00am, 12:00pm, 2:00pm, 5:00pm, and 7:00pm*. The first stop on Tybee is at the Tybrisa / Strand Roundabout (approx. 30 - 40 minutes from Savannah departure) and then it stops at North Beach near the Tybee Island Lighthouse (approx. 15 minutes after the Roundabout stop).  
 
Cost is $3 / way / person.  Credit card payments are accepted for an additional $0.50 per one-way trip.
 
*The Sunday - Thursday 5:00pm and Friday - Saturday 7:00pm are return trips from Tybee only. 

Click here for more information.  A map of the Island can be found here.

Memorial Bench Plaque Program

The Tybee Island Better Hometown Program is pleased to extend the opportunity for individuals to purchase a Memorial Plaque for City benches located within the downtown area of the Main Corridor. 
 
Each bench will be memorialized with a permanent memorial plaque, becoming an enduring show of appreciation to Tybee’s heritage.   For more information, please click here.  


IT'S ALL RIGHT HERE ON TYBEE YEAR ROUND!
This northernmost barrier island offers a variety of natural and cultural experiences while providing goods and services to Residents and Visitors.  
 
That's right; it's all here on Tybee!  For a list of shops, services, restaurants, and recreational activities welcoming you to walk through the door click here.
 
 
 The Locals Appreciation Card is available to those with a valid 31328 address on their driver's license. 
For the most current list (updated 4-24-13) of businesses honoring the card, click here
Cards can be obtained from the Better Hometown (BHT) Program Coordinator in the BHT Office at City Hall.
 
 

Welcome to living on Tybee!

Welcome to Tybee Island!  We are happy that you have chosen Tybee as your new hometown – your piece of paradise where you can enjoy a fabulous quality of life. 

Tybee Island is located within Chatham County and was incorporated in 1887 ... click here for all the information you need to settle in. 


Design Information / Historic Preservation
DESIGN INFORMATION
 
For information about design guidelines for commercial buildings and curb appeal please click here.  The Better Hometown Design Committee works with our partners with the Department of Community Affairs and the National Trust Main Street Center™ for design assistance.  If you are located within the designated Main Corridor and would like assistance with signage, facade improvements, or the like, please feel free to inquire here.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION INFORMATION FOR PROPERTY OWNERS
Tybee's nostalgic feel is due in part to the architectural character, history and uniqueness throughout the island.
 
Experts in the field of historic preservation and architecture have long worked with property owners on the Island to preserve buildings that represent the history and spirit of Tybee.
 
Do you own a home and / or building that is over 50 years old?  You may be eligible to protect and preserve your investment by being listed on the National Register!

Want to know more about the National Register of Historic Places? Click here
 
Do you know the benefits of Historic Preservation?
Following is beneficial information about the advantages of HP provided during various presentations:
HP Federal Tax Incentive information
State Tax Assessment for Rehabilitated Historic Property
State Tax Credit for Rehabilitated Historic Property   
NATIONAL PRESERVATION MONTH

Every year, during the month of May, National Preservation Month is celebrated.  The National Trust for Historic Preservation has a unique annual theme to celebrate.  Following are past themes:  
2010 - "This Place Matters",
2011 - "Celebrating America's Treasures”,
2012 - "Discover America's Hidden Gems”.

 
Together we are protecting America's heritage for future generations. Tybee is rich in history and the gems you see are critical to preserving Tybee's heritage and culture.  There are four National Historic Register Districts and multiple individual properties on Tybee that are listed.  Click here for details. 
 
In 2010, Mayor Buelterman read a Proclamation in honor of National Preservation.  Following are a few photos taken in celebration of the 2010 "This Place Matters" theme:    
 
 https://cityoftybee.sophicity.com/Assets/Images/BetterHometown/Tybrisa.jpg      https://cityoftybee.sophicity.com/Assets/Images/BetterHometown/W_PTSCHUS_email.jpg    
More photos are available for viewing here
 
 


Better Hometown: Goals for Good

Tybee is proud to be a Georgia Better Hometown Community

The Program is based on historic preservation and uses the foundation of the proven Main Street four-point approach to address revitalization and enhancements for long term economic vitality within downtowns. The Better Hometown Program was developed by GA Department of Community Affairs as a self-help program designed to improve the community's quality of life through sound planning and implementation with private and public partnerships.

Tybee's designated main business corridor for revitalization encompasses the South End historic business area through the North End developing business area.   By capitalizing on the corridor's unique assets and qualities, the sense of place and quality of life improves which benefits the businesses, the residents and all that experience the Island.

Assistance to Better Hometown communities is provided through a public-private partnership between many state and national agencies to assist communities with technical assistance and advice designed, in particular, to stimulate downtown revitalization.  

The success of the program runs by a comprehensive four-point approach driven by volunteers:  

Committees work with the BHT Board of Directors to make projects happen. This structure minimizes confusion, avoids duplication and maintains good communication. Work plans set direction for committees and Board liaisons provide updates at the Board of Directors monthly meetings for review and approval as necessary. Committees typically meet once a month.

To review Committee descriptions, meeting information, and the 2012-2013 Work Plan click here.  Thank you to those that provided feedback, from which the work plans were developed, during the 2012 Community Visioning Workshop!  
 

Design Committee volunteers follow: Jim Glass, Board liaison; Bob Ciucevich - Quatrefoil Consulting; Sue Bentley - Solomon Properties; Bill Garbett - Tybee Beautification Association; Diane Schleicher- City Manager; Mark Boswell - Boswell Design; Jane Coslick - Resident 
 
 
 

Economic Restructuring Committee volunteers follow: Ted Lynch, Board liaison; Sue Bentley - Solomon Properties; Sandy Major - Windfall Resources Inc.

 
 
 
 
  
Organization / Outreach Committee volunteers follow: John Yarbrough, Board liaison; BHT Board Members
 
 
 
  
 
 
Promotions Committee volunteers follow: Amy Kagan, Board liaison; Lindsay Fruchtl - Tybee Island Tourism Council; Chris Garbett - Tybee Beautification Association; Karen Kelly - Resident; Dicky Trotter - Resident 
 
 
If you would like to be involved with a committee, please contact the Better Hometown Coordinator @ 472-5071 or cmorton@cityoftybee.org.

What is the Better Hometown Program?

In partnership with the Georgia Department of Community Affairs, the Better Hometown program provides economic development resources to communities with populations less than 5,000 (populations greater than 5,000 are designated Main Street Communities). Better Hometown follows a comprehensive revitalization process that improves all aspects of a commercial district. Tybee Island Better Hometown is a “self help” approach to economic development within the context of Historic Preservation for the Main Business Corridor designed to grow business and improve a community’s quality of life through public / private partnerships.  It successfully integrates a practical management strategy with physical improvements of buildings and public spaces, promotion and image building, and economic development of the area.

What is the Main Street Approach to Commercial District Revitalization?

The Main Street Four-Point Approach™ is a community-driven, comprehensive methodology used to revitalize older, traditional business districts throughout the United States.  It is a common-sense way to address the variety of issues and problems that face traditional business districts. The underlying premise of the Main Street approach is to encourage economic development within the context of historic preservation in ways appropriate to today's marketplace. The Main Street Approach advocates a return to community self-reliance, local empowerment, and the rebuilding of traditional commercial districts based on their unique assets: distinctive architecture, a pedestrian-friendly environment, personal service, local ownership, and a sense of community.

The Main Street Four-Point Approach™ is a comprehensive strategy that is tailored to meet local needs and opportunities. It encompasses work in four distinct areas — Design, Economic Restructuring, Promotion, and Organization — that are combined to address all of the commercial district's needs. The philosophy and the Eight Guiding Principles behind this methodology  make  it  an  effective  tool  for  community-based,  grassroots  revitalization  efforts.  The Main Street approach has been successful in communities of all sizes, both rural and urban.

The Main Street 4-Point Approach(TM) is incremental.  It is not designed to produce immediate change. It is designed to be long-lasting.  Because they often fail to address the underlying causes of commercial district decline, expensive improvements, such as pedestrian malls or sports arenas, do not always generate the desired economic results. In order to succeed, a long-term revitalization effort requires careful attention to every aspect of downtown — a process that takes time, requires leadership and local capacity building.  Coincidentally, the four points of the Main Street approach correspond with the four forces of real estate value, which are social, political, physical, and economic.



USEFUL INFORMATION FOR BUSINESSES

Incentives / Financial Resources

The Better Hometown Program hosts workshops throughout the year for interested parties to gain knowledge about available resources.  Following is a list of business resources, financing opportunities and incentives for businesses owners and / or property owners.  Links are provided with items underlined.  Please call a member of the Economic Restructuring Committee or the Tybee Island Better Hometown Coordinator for more information.

 

Small Business Assistance Corporation (SBAC):
SBAC is a specialized, non-profit business development organization licensed by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and is supported by the City of Savannah and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development to promote economic growth. SBAC offers a variety of loan programs for new and existing businesses in the service delivery area.


Georgia Small Business Development Center (SBDC):
SBDC’s mission is to enhance the economic well-being of Georgians by providing a wide range of educational services for small business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs. SBDC offers a range of services, including consulting, continuing education, applied research, minority business, international trade, commercialization, and client stories. 

 

HISTORIC PRESERVATION TAX INCENTIVES:

State and federal government tax incentives are available for owners of a historic property who carry out a substantial rehabilitation.  All properties must be listed in, or eligible for the National/Georgia Register of Historic Places, either individually or as part of a National/Georgia Register Historic District.  Project work must meet the Secretary of the Interior’s/Department of Natural Resources Standards of Rehabilitation.

Federal Income Tax Credit Program

A federal income tax credit equal to 20% of rehabilitation expenses.  Available ONLY for income-producing properties.  The application is first reviewed by the Historic Preservation Division (HPD) then forwarded to the National Park Service for final decision.

State Income Tax Credit for Rehabilitated Historic Property

A state income tax credit of 25% of rehabilitation expenses.  The credit is capped at $100,000 for residences and $300,000 for income-producing properties.  This amended tax credit is allowed for the taxable year in which the certified rehabilitation is completed.

State Preferential Property Tax Assessment for Rehabilitated Historic Property

Freezes the county property tax assessment for over 8 years.  Available for personal residences as well as income-producing properties.  Owner must increase their fair market value of the building by 50-100%, depending on its new use.  The Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ Historic Preservation Division and the Georgia Department of Revenue administers the program.

The application is a two/three part process, describing before and after rehabilitation.  Project work should be submitted before work begins and be completed within two years.

Applications for all three programs are sent to HPD, and must be reviewed and approved by HPD and the National Park Service for the Rehabilitation Investment Tax Credit.  There are cost tests that must be met to qualify for each program.

 

LOW INTEREST LOAN PROGRAMS: 

Georgia Cities Foundation assists property owners by collaborating with cities as they revitalize and enhance downtown areas by serving as a partner and facilitator in funding capital projects through a revolving loan fund.

DCA Downtown Development Revolving Loan Fund

One Georgia

Employee Incentive Program

Community Development Block Grant

Homesafe Georgia can help provide "bridge" mortgage assistance to many in Georgia who are unemployed or have had a dramatic decrease in HH income due to national economic conditions. 

Georgia Housing Search


GA Tech Market Study - Phase II
In February of 2011, Ed Lindsey with GA Tech presented his findings from the 2009 lodging data he collected for Market Study-Phase II.  Click here for a profile summary of Hotel / Motel / Inn and Vacation Rental patrons.  This information is beneficial for all businesses when planning successful marketing strategies.  

Looking to open a business or expand in Tybee's Main Business Corridor?
Looking to open a business or expand an existing business in Tybee's Main Corridor?  
Helpful information about opening a new business and / or for your existing business is available within the Tybee Island's Business Resource Guide.
Tybee 2010 census information may be viewed by clicking here.
 
Imagine owning a year-round successful kitchen store, furniture store, pet supply store or more on this nostalgic paradise...
Following is a list of commercial vacancies:
 
Commercial Vacancies for Sale or Lease within Tybee's Business Corridor:
(Updated:  3-2013; Information is not guaranteed.  Please call 912-472-5071 with questions.)
 
Location:  5 Silver Avenue
Built:  NA
Sq ft (approx.):  NA
Contact:  Solomon Properties
Phone: 912-786-5466
 
Location:  104 Tybrisa
Built:  1997
Sq ft (approx.):  2378
Contact:  Savannah Trust Realty
Phone: 912-231-0667
 
Location:  1601 Inlet Avenue
Built:  1961 est.
Sq ft (approx.):  NA
Contact:  Solomon Properties
Phone: 912-786-5466
 
Location:  17 15th Street
Built:  1940 est.
Sq ft (approx.):  NA (previously gift shop / apts)
Contact:  Solomon Properties
Phone: 912-786-5466
 
Location:  0 5th Ave. (from Hwy 80)
Built:  NA
Sq ft:  NA
Contact:  Solomon Properties
Phone:  912-786-5466
 
Location:  406 First St.
Built:  NA
Sq ft (approx):  186 (office space upstairs)
Contact:  Brian Malins
Phone: 912-604-6389
 
Location:  405 First St.
Built:  NA
Sq ft (approx):  NA
Contact:  Solomon Properties
Phone:  912-786-5466
  
Location:  10 Jones Ave.
Built:  2000
Sq ft (approx.):  1200 
Contact:  Solomon Properties
Phone:  912-786-5466
 
Location:  1002 Highway 80
Built:  NA
Sq ft (approx):  NA
Contact:  Solomon Properties
Phone:  912-786-5466
 
Location:  1010 E. Highway 80, Suite 5
Built:  2007
Sq ft:  900
Contact:  Amy Gaster
Phone: 912-786-5853
 
Location:  1013 E. Hwy 80
Built: 1986
Sq ft:  NA
Contact:  Keith Gay
Phone:  912-786-5466
 
Location:  1204 E. Hwy 80
Built:  1920
Sq ft:  NA
Contact:  Coldwell Banker Platinum
Phone:  912-352-1222

Better Hometown Events Listing

September 29, 2013 - TYBEE COMMUNITY DAY 2013
Event Location
Memorial Park
Start Date
9/29/2013 01:00 PM
End Date
9/29/2013 05:00 PM

Tybee Community Day is a day for all ages of Tybee to play! 

The second annual gathering is set for Saturday, September 29, 2013: 1:00pm - 5:00pm.  More information to come.
Become a "liker" on FB by clicking here
Contact Name
Chantel Morton
Contact Phone
912-472-5071
Contact Email
cmorton@cityoftybee.org

November 21, 2013 - THIRD THURSDAYS ON TYBEE
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Third-Thursdays-on-Tybee/175103179236982?ref=hl
Event Location
Tybrisa / Strand Roundabout
Start Date
11/21/2013 05:30 PM
End Date
11/21/2013 07:00 PM
The Fall Series Finale of Third Thursdays on Tybee is November 21 at 5:30pm in Downtown Tybee at the Tybrisa / Strand Roundabout.  Bring a chair, stroll the shops, or grab a bite to eat as you enjoy free outdoor music.  Musician and rain location to be announced.  
Contact Name
Chantel Morton
Contact Phone
912-472-5071
Contact Email
cmorton@cityoftybee.org

October 17, 2013 - THIRD THURSDAYS ON TYBEE
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Third-Thursdays-on-Tybee/175103179236982?ref=hl
Event Location
The Lot at Tybee Oaks (1213 E. Highway 80)
Start Date
10/17/2013 05:30 PM
End Date
10/17/2013 07:00 PM
The Fall Series of Third Thursdays on Tybee continues October 17 at 5:30pm at the Lot at Tybee Oaks (1213 E. Highway 80).  Bring a chair, stroll the shops, or grab a bite to eat as you enjoy free outdoor music.  Musician and rain location to be announced.  
Contact Name
Chantel Morton
Contact Phone
912-472-5071
Contact Email
cmorton@cityoftybee.org

September 19, 2013 - THIRD THURSDAYS ON TYBEE
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Third-Thursdays-on-Tybee/175103179236982?ref=hl
Event Location
Tybrisa / Strand Roundabout
Start Date
9/19/2013 05:30 PM
End Date
9/19/2013 07:00 PM
The Fall Series of Third Thursdays on Tybee kicks off September 19 at 5:30pm in Downtown Tybee at the Tybrisa / Strand Roundabout.  Bring a chair, stroll the shops, or grab a bite to eat as you enjoy free outdoor music.  Musician and rain location to be announced.  
Contact Name
Chantel Morton
Contact Phone
912-472-5071
Contact Email
cmorton@cityoftybee.org


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