Bev Miller and her husband, Bob, first purchased a home on the Isle of Palms in 2013 and made the island their permanent residence in 2016. They were drawn by the beauty of the beach, the friendly small-town atmosphere, and the strong sense of community—along with the added bonus that living at the beach made it easier for their three daughters and their families to visit often.
Before moving to the Isle of Palms full-time, Miller spent many years advocating for her children within the public school system, an experience that expanded into broader advocacy at both the county and state levels of government. However, it is local government—the level closest to the people—that matters most to her. Protecting the community’s neighborhoods, homes, and quality of life is at the heart of her commitment to public service.
In 2021, Miller became deeply concerned by an attempt in the State Legislature to preempt Home Rule by imposing parking requirements on the Isle of Palms, which she viewed as an overreach into local authority. That concern led her to join other residents focused on effectively communicating community concerns to City Council. This effort ultimately resulted in the creation of the Barrier Island Preservation Alliance (BIPA), where Miller has remained an active and engaged community member.
Miller has been a consistent voice before both City Council and the State Legislature, advocating on behalf of residents and the interests of the Isle of Palms. Recently inaugurated as a Councilwoman, she now looks forward to serving the community directly—with integrity, a willingness to listen, and a focus on practical solutions that preserve the quality of life that makes the Isle of Palms so special.
Drawing on her experience as a former municipal councilwoman in Georgia, Miller understands the importance of collaboration and civil discourse, even on contentious issues. She believes residents have a right to transparency in decision-making and is committed to open communication by clearly explaining her reasoning behind votes. Known for her “can-do” attitude, she strives to build consensus by seeking common ground.
Miller believes the most pressing issue facing the community is beach management. She supports the adoption of a long-range plan to preserve the island’s beaches and, in the short term, careful consideration of the recommendations of the Beach Preservation Ad Hoc Committee. These include establishing strong restoration policies, taking proactive steps to address erosion, and developing new and consistent funding mechanisms to meet future needs.
Equally important to Miller is gaining a clear understanding of the City’s finances, recognizing that community needs currently exceed available revenue. She acknowledges there is much to learn and is committed to dedicating the time and effort necessary to do so in service to the residents of the Isle of Palms.