Jekyll’s Visitors Address the Affordability Issue

On June 24th, the IPJI asked its supporters to respond to two questions:

“What do you feel constitutes ‘affordability’ in a Jekyll context?”

 “What would you consider to be ‘unaffordable’ for a two-bed, room rate per day on Jekyll Island: a) $100-$125, b) $125-$150, c) $175-$200, d) $200-$225, e) $225-$250,  f) more than $250?”

Below is a selection of some of the responses we have received to these two questions, along with a number of letters regarding the affordability issue sent to the Board of Directors of the JIA. Our intent in conducting this mini-survey is to show that—contrary to the assertion made by some that the meaning of the word “affordability,” in a Jekyll context, defies definition—the folks who visit Jekyll are well able to describe what “affordability” means to them. Hopefully, an understanding of the meaning of “affordability” to the island’s visitors will be of some use to the JIA’s Board as it moves forward with its effort to revitalize the island.

                                                    _______________________________________________

                                                Letters to the Jekyll Island Authority’s Board of Directors

 

I am writing regarding the RFP that has been issued for the "redevelopment" of Jekyll Island.  My understanding of the plan is that it fails to take into account the fact that "affordability" is a legally-mandated consideration for anything to do with Jekyll.

I have been going to Jekyll Island almost every summer since the 1980s.  Jekyll is one of the few beaches around that is still affordable for people of modest means and/or families with children.  The undisturbed beaches and the natural beauty of the area are a blessing for those of us who just want a place to relax and avoid the development that has swallowed up so many other beach towns along the Atlantic coast.  Most Georgians (and most Americans, for that matter) cannot afford hotel rooms at $200-250 per night, or million dollar condominiums. 

The idea of a town square from the convention center to Blackbeard's is a bad one. It would be a tragedy to see Jekyll crowded with "fashionable" stores, trendy restaurants and overpriced hotels. It is not a crime against humanity to preserve Jekyll in its present state, and to provide an affordable vacation retreat for those of us who are not millionaires, or do not wish to go into debt to take a summer vacation.  The well-to-do have many choices available to them if they want an upscale vacation.  The rest of us have Jekyll Island, one of the few places remaining that is still affordable.  Leave it alone!

Please advise me via e-mail of how you plan to comply with the Georgia Legislature's requirements regarding the "affordability factor" for Jekyll Island.

Thank you.

Mary Sullivan, Atlanta, GA

As long time visitors to Jekyll Island, we are greatly disturbed by what is happening at this time!  In no way are the average people being considered when I read about the proposed happenings. 

We regularly stayed at the Buccaneer Resort and were very delighted to be able to afford the old Georgia feeling and care that we received from both staff and surroundings.  We were planning on returning next year and went to make a reservation when we were informed it was being torn down for a new resort.  I can expect more homogenization of the property given what Trammell Crow has done elsewhere.  Uniqueness is not part of the bottom line anymore.

We discovered Jekyll years ago because my husband, as a senior officer, was instrumental in building a manufacturing facility in Georgia for his company - headquartered in Michigan.  I still have the souvenir of the red Georgia soil encased in plastic that he was given at the opening of the plant. We got to see Georgia and meet many people because of that work.  As a result, we have come to feel that Georgia represents a great more genuine Southern hospitality than some other places. 

In addition, our son went to school there and we visited him as well.  Georgia has so many different kinds of things to offer.  We loved exploring after our visits with our son.

We are very disappointed in the bottom-line greed that has pervaded the actions surrounding Jekyll.  We have seen this kind of behavior and decision making elsewhere and have grieved over the lack of vision and destruction of special places just like Jekyll.  I believe it has long been a true jewel - kept bright and shining while St. Simons has become over run with people, buildings and too many touristy shops.  Why have Jekyll become another place that is just like all the rest in the Southeast?  There is plenty of open land for development and to sell out to the developers who only care about their own incomes and profits is purely stupid and shortsighted! 

In conclusion, please reconsider what is about to happen.  In taking away the ambiance that Jekyll currently has, you destroy something that can never be regained.  The breathtaking beauty and the peace of this natural resource are priceless.  You hold the future of it in your hands and need to see what that future will turn into - a nightmare!  The infrastructure cannot possible support what has been presented without a serious problem or problems resulting.  More people mean more problems - big ones usually.

Thank you very much for taking the time to read this.  I feel very strongly about Jekyll as you can tell.  I do love it deeply and treasure the memories of the times spent there.  I hope to spend many more winters there, but will not be able to if your developers go ahead with their plans as stated.  PLEASE take care.

    Julie Simmons

Regarding the recent e-mail on Jekyll affordability, I think some hotels with rooms starting at $250, or higher, is a great and necessary way to bring the island managed development. It is the only way to have better and more restaurants, shopping and profitable development.  If the mid-range hotels come which I think $250 is, then at some point the less expensive level motel will also build. All of the same price range level does not serve all of the citizens of Georgia in any way.

I enjoy Jekyll Island tremendously and hope the undeveloped part of the island stays as it is. I don't believe affordable means the same to all and compared to most beach front hotel costs, $225 to $250 will be a rate welcomed by many.

Mary Jane Coleman

I am a fourth generation Georgian, and I have been going to Jekyll Island yearly or more often since 1975. Before that, I went to St. Simons and Jekyll with my parents and my grandmother, my aunt and uncle and cousins. My grandchildren are the fourth generation in our family to enjoy Jekyll Island.

Even when my husband was in graduate school at UGA, we could afford to vacation at Jekyll Island with our daughter and my parents, who were in declining health and modest circumstances.

I understand that the RFP that has been issued for the "redevelopment" of Jekyll Island does not even consider the legally mandated affordability issue for the "average" Georgian.

On my latest visit there June 9-16, I observed cars from counties all over Georgia --- people with their children, enjoying the natural beauty, the walking and biking trails, the lovely beach. This is as it should be.

The average Georgian can not afford million dollar condos or $200 a night hotel rooms. They don't want to be squeezed out by rising costs and building on the beaches. A so-called "town square" from the convention center to Blackbeard's is not desirable. We do not need trendy boutiques, Hard Rock Cafes or Tommy Bahamas. We need affordable accommodations. Refurbishing the existing hotels is a good idea, as long as they do not become beyond the reach of Georgians of average income.

There are already expensive islands for those who can afford and who desire them. There is only one Jekyll Island.

Please reply and let me know what steps you are taking to fulfill the will of the legislature that established the parameters for Jekyll Island and for observing the spirit of the law.

Thank you.

Theresa Miller Matt, Athens, GA

Jekyll remains one of Georgia's treasures as a habitat for nesting sea turtles and migrating birds as well as for its unique salt marshes, sand dunes, and unrestricted beaches.  As a resort, it is one of the few remaining coastal havens accessible to those of us who are not affluent.

To allow the construction of big-ticket homes and high-rise condominiums would benefit no one but a few avaricious developers and a handful of their wealthy clients, who often feel entitled to gates, security guards, and exclusive rights to Georgia's natural beauty.   Most importantly, such development would put excessive pressure on the island's wildlife, roads, beaches, and infrastructure and discourage visitation by the common Georgians for whom the island was intended when it became a state park.

When considering the redevelopment of Jekyll, please keep the protection of our natural    resources in mind as well as the affordability of accommodations for ordinary Georgians, who will be priced out of a beach vacation on the island if developers are allowed to proceed with their plans for the south end of the island.

Does the world really need another St. Simons Island or Hilton Head where the beach and marsh are no longer visible to the public, where traffic is in a constant snarl, and where once vibrant natural habitats for wildlife have disappeared?

Brenda Deily Constan

Please do consider the factor of affordability in room rates. There is no way in the world I would ever come to Jekyll Island and pay $250 a night for a room. I'd drive an extra hour or so and just make a one day visit before I'd pay that much. I also think you should consider the fact that the majority of Georgians aren't making stratospheric sums of money and can't afford to spend that much for a hotel room. I personally try not to spend more than $60 to $80 on a hotel room and when I do I make sure I have a microwave and refrigerator. If all the hotel options are way, way out of my price range, I wouldn’t even consider coming at all. If it is only slightly out of my price range I can go, hmm, and see what I can juggle (like cutting the trip shorter).

[Regarding the statement]"There are other stakeholders in Jekyll Island besides those of average income whose needs must be taken into account."  Actually, if you look at the population of Georgia there are more "average" income citizens than there are citizens who make large sums of money. And if I remember rightly, Jekyll Island is owned BY the citizens of Georgia, neither the Development Authority nor the hotels. Since there are more average income citizens (stakeholders) in Georgia than above average, shouldn't the redevelopment of Jekyll Island have a large proportion of rooms that cater to them? There is a much more limited number of above average incomes out there and if the majority of what is built caters to them and nothing is built/redeveloped for us average joe/joettes is that fair?

Are you trying to create an elitist environment? And aren't you also creating a potential problem when you find you've got too many rooms built for the high end and not enough high end customers booking nights and you have low occupancy rates which leads to low cash flow?

If you wanted to make 25% to 30% be high end that would make sense. But to make it all be high end.... nope.

           Sincerely, an average Joe(ette) citizen of Georgia i.e. stakeholder

           Vicki Williams, Marietta, GA

I am writing to let you know my feelings on the new developments on Jekyll Island.  While I am not from Georgia, I have vacationed on the Island since 1975.  I enjoy the island as it is.  I could never afford to stay on St. Simons or Sea Island, but I can afford to stay on Jekyll.  I feel that any attempts to develop Jekyll Island to be more in the line with the other two islands which are just a short distance away would benefit the same people who already are benefiting from what is offered on the other two islands.  I visited St. Simons Island this year and it was a traffic nightmare.  I returned to Jekyll and find peace and solitude.  Jekyll is where the person of average income can vacation.  If the wealthy want to vacation there I am sure that they could stay at the Millionaire's club or Crane cottage.  That is if they required lodging that only they can afford.

It is also my opinion that since St. Simons and Sea Island are running out of room for development this new plan is being pushed through to benefit the wealthy, bankers, and developers.  How many members of the JIA board are from Jekyll?  How many are from St. Simons?  How many are from Brunswick?  How many make under $50,000 a year?  I think when you answer these questions you will see what I am talking about, and get the point I am trying to make.  It is a land grab, because the other land is already taken.  Please continue to make Jekyll Island a vacation paradise that all can afford.  If some people because of there financial situation need fancier "digs" let them go elsewhere.  If you over develop the island and make part of it only available to the very wealthy, then eventually that is all that there will be on Jekyll.  It will become a millionaires club again: and the people who can afford to vacation there now may be able to get jobs waiting tables, or as cleaning ladies, or hotel clerks.  Just like they did when it was a private club.

I recently spent a weekend getaway with two children at Georgia's best beachfront state park, Jekyll Island. We had a wonderful time along with other families of average means enjoying the beach and the natural beauty of this state park. We stayed at a comfortable but modest and affordable hotel across the street from the beach. At $125 a night, this hotel was in reach of average middle class Georgia families, as the island's charter calls for.

I was dismayed to learn of the plans that are being entertained to "revitalize" Jekyll Island by replacing the present modest and affordable hotels that cater to average citizens with luxury hotels and condominiums that only wealthy persons will be able to afford to visit. Adding insult to injury is the proposal to relocate "budget" hotels inland so that only the wealthy will have direct access to the beach. Jekyll Island is a state park

that belongs to all the people of this state, not a private playground for the rich like Sea Island and Hilton Head. The wealthy have plenty of fancy places to go to if they find the current motor lodges too modest for their taste.

In keeping with the island's status as a state park, instead of replacing the existing convention center with an expanded facility together with additional shops, boutiques, condominiums, and whatnot, why not tear it down and build a public beachfront park with picnic tables and walk-in tent camping. The current northern campground could continue to be used primarily by persons using recreational vehicles, while the new southern campground could offer a more natural alternative to campers in tents who don't want to listen to the noise of RV motors running all night long. Perhaps a park

headquarters and ranger station with a wildlife exhibit could be installed

as well as is the case at other state parks. Or a small amphitheater for nighttime ranger presentations about the island's history and natural life. This would promote ecotourism and encourage conservation rather than allowing Jekyll Island to be developed into another St. Simon's Island, with overdevelopment spoiling the natural beauty.

In short, please keep Jekyll Island affordable and remember that it is a state park, not a plum to be handed over to wealthy developers eager to pave over nature for their own profit.

Sincerely,

Jeffrey Sokolow, Atlanta, GA

Last week I spent a great, relaxing week at Jekyll Island with my mother and her sister. I've been coming to Jekyll since the early 70s when I was a preteen. I've been to other beaches: Panama City, Destin, but I always come back to Jekyll. Why? Because it is a BEACH!! It is the ocean lapping up against your ankles. It is the sound of the waves and tide coming in through your motel room window late at night. It is darkness and looking for sea turtles. It is peaceful, calm, and quiet. When sitting on the beach at Jekyll it is very easy to imagine what the beach looked like before Oglethorpe, before the Spanish explorers, when it was just the Native Americans and the animals and God.

I agree that the motels need to be refurbished and renovated. I would even go so far as to say that the little shopping area needs a fresh coat of paint or facade but other than that I would say LEAVE IT ALONE!! It was originally intended as a STATE PARK FOR THE CITIZENS OF GEORGIA. Well, this citizen doesn't need shopping malls, movie theaters when she goes to the beach; just some good seafood at Zachary's or Blackbeard’s, a round of putt-putt and a picnic on the clean, calm peaceful beaches of my state park!!

That's what I consider Jekyll Island MY BEACH...I don't live there but I'm a native of this great state and I say leave it alone

Thank you,

Deborah Autry, Calhoun, A

When I was much younger, Jekyll was one of the few places that I could take my family for a short vacation because it was affordable. I still love going to Jekyll even though I could afford more expensive places. I realize that greed, profit, and a total lack

of appreciation of beauty will usually win. I am making a request, however, to keep Jekyll a place for all people. We have enough exclusivity as it is.

Thank you,

John Bishop

I visit Jekyll Island at least three times a year and have for years.  I can

not continue to do that if the new development that is proposed goes through.  I can't stay if the price goes to $140 per night or higher.  I don't know many people who can.  Jekyll has been our vacation spot.  I suppose I could take my business to South Carolina if Hunter Island beach is still affordable.

I don't care for the Florida beaches as they are overpriced and "fakey."

That is how I see the development at places like San Marco Island and Sea

Island.  They are ugly monuments to the nouveau riche; we called this style of

development as nouveau riche tacky.  Worse, they will never be returned to

their normal natural beautiful state.

I implore you to reconsider your plans for Jekyll development to include

those of us who truly love this island.

Thank you for any consideration.

Janie Hopwood

       My family has been coming to Jekyll Island from Canada annually for more than 15 years for the absolutely unique living experience we enjoy there.  The openness to the ocean from almost any point on the island, the long beautiful and quiet beaches, miles of flat and quiet bike paths , the beautiful and welcoming tennis club and features such as  the continuing development of the Historic District and most important of all, the feeling  of peace and tranquility that is the hallmark of Jekyll Island .

       We understand development options are being considered for the Island. We believe the atmosphere of Jekyll is a very delicate one and are concerned that major developments could destroy the very thing that makes Jekyll so very special to so many people.

       Coming from Ontario, Canada we have seen devastating effects of major development on what we now realize should have been conserved as treasures. The shores of our beautiful Muskoka lakes are ringed with huge private cottage/condominium estates making it virtually impossible to access or even view the lakes except from a few small public areas. And dining is either hot dogs or expensive high-end cuisine. Similarly the Ontario shores of Lake Ontario are now given over almost completely too expensive homes and high rise condominiums giving the affluent wonderful lake views but prohibiting same for others. And in Toronto, our provincial capital, the city is fighting the uphill battle of trying to “reclaim” its waterfront for its citizens.

       You and the Jekyll Island Authority have made Jekyll Island unique! If it is carrying its own weight financially it would be a great shame to change its environment. It is serving a wonderful purpose for   so many   people of average and less means.  Brush it up, sure, but please don't change its nature. There are so many places that cater to the affluent   in our world. Please do not spoil this blessed place for the others.

       For people who would like higher end facilities, and can afford them, there is, of course, the Jekyll Island Club and its Grand Dining Room. And for more variety there is St Simon's and Sea Island, both within minutes of Jekyll Island. As you well know, they together with Brunswick itself, boast some of the finest high end dining in the South.      

       We hope that plans for the future of Jekyll Island will benefit from the mistakes made in dealing with other treasures and will simply enhance the features that make the Island so appealing and unique.

       Thank you and the Jekyll Island Authority for your past achievements in creating such a marvelous place of peace and enjoyment as Jekyll Island.

Marjorie and Robin Banks 

      My family and I have vacationed on Jekyll Island since 1995; it is a very unique and special place to us.  We have followed the plans for redevelopment of the islands facilities very closely and are concerned about the direction they seem to be taking.  Jekyll's mandate as I understand it is to be affordable and accessible to all Georgians and it should remain so.  I believe it should also remain affordable for those such as our family who come from outside Georgia to visit Jekyll.  I would agree that the islands facilities are in need of some renewal and upgrading, I disagree with relying to heavily on a public/private partnership to achieve this.  The State obligation is to the people, the private obligation is solely to profit.  A rush to utilize a state resource in this way would inevitably lead to the loss of accessibility of that resource for a large segment of Georgians and visiting out of state tourist alike.  Jekyll is currently affordable to everyone; there are accommodations that appeal to all regardless of income.  Replacing value and moderately priced lodging with strictly upscale hotels and condominiums only serves to create an air of exclusivity about the place and would effectively price families of moderate incomes out of the market.  Closing even a small portion of the island attractions such as the golf course to the public would be a detriment as well.  Jekyll was once an exclusive enclave of the wealthy, I fear that implementation of the proposed redevelopment plan would make it that again.  We receive the Jekyll Island Beachscape newsletter each month. Every issue touts Jekyll as a family vacation destination; a place to enjoy nature, family and to get away for the everyday hustle and bustle. We hope that it remains such a place, one that from our experience is like no other.  Please keep it that way.    

       Paul, Ginger and Jordan Patterson, Gurley, Alabama

       I have been going to Jekyll Island for twenty five years. I go with twenty five or thirty friends from all over the eastern part of the U.S. We can do this because it is affordable. We come here to play golf and enjoy the ocean. We are blue collar workers who have families and work hard for our money. Because Jekyll Island is affordable we can save enough to make this trip each year. If a two bed room rate was more than $150.00 per night it would be unaffordable to my friends and I. People with lots of money have lots of places to go. Please leave this wonderful place for the average working families of Georgia and the other states who go there. ,

James Archibald, Aiken, SC

Jekyll  Island  has  always  been  very  important  to  us  and  we  have  considered  a  move  to  the  island  if  we  could  confirm  that  adequate  medical  care  could  be  available  to  us,  as  well  as  sources  that  would  allow  us  to  continue  to  ballroom  dance  and  to  pursue  our  jobs  on  a  part time  basis. We  have  come  to  Jekyll  Island  for  a  long  time  and  were  sad  when the  monthly  ballroom  dance  disappeared.  Just  recently  we  discovered  that  some  of  the  hotels  had  been  torn  down  and  that  the  room  demand  was  then  more  expensive.....We  found  the  hotel((  was  the  Comfort  Inn)   beside  the  Beachview  Club  to  be  very  run  down  and unacceptable  and  ultimately  left  that  hotel.  Their staff was understanding and gave us a refund.

A  2  bed  room  rate  for  someone  who  cannot  check  in  until  4  p.m.  and  has  to  check  out  by  11  a.m.  should  not  be  more  than  $125  in  season....out  of  season  I  believe  $100  is  reasonable....or  with  specials  for  slow  times....If  the  room  has  a  small  kitchenette...small  refrig,  2  burners,  microwave  and  small  sink,  then  perhaps  a  little  more  could  be  charged....anything  around  $175  to  $200  for  around  19  hours  is  too  much....not  many  families  can  put  out  this  amount  of  money  for  a  1  day  stay....several  bags  of  groceries  could  be  bought  instead.

Sincerely, Linda  Blashfield, Auburn, AL

           Hello, my name is Ashley Chasteen, and I am a recent graduate of UGA. My family has been visiting Jekyll for over forty-five years. Besides its tranquility, natural beauty, and wonderful seafood, one of the main reasons we spend our time there is its affordability of its hotels and attractions. The prices that the Trammel Crow Company plans to tag onto its refurbished Buccaneer Resort hotel rooms (where my family has stayed for years) would push families like mine out of our favorite spot. Originally, the island was intended to be an affordable destination for people of "ordinary means;" charging over $200 a night for a hotel room clashes with the island's affordability mandate originally set forth in Jekyll's founding legislation. Has the JIA even mentioned this affordability mandate to the Trammel Crow Co.?

     I must ask you,  why push the loyal Jekyll-goers out of their oceanside accommodations when refurbishing the already affordable hotels will accomplish the feat of bringing in money for the island. Those belonging to a more affluent class already have their rich destinations - please help us and countless other families preserve our little - affordable - slice of heaven.

Much thanks,

Ashley Chasteen

I am writing to you as a concerned citizen regarding the future of Jekyll Island. It appears we are at a crossroads for what Jekyll Island is today and what it can or should be in the future. There is no question a solution must evolve which provides for the long term economic needs of Jekyll. In some shape form or fashion, Jekyll Island must generate sufficient funds to support the scale and scope of amenities on the island. Some sort of economic self sufficiency must be realized.  What is most disturbing to me is the potential for destruction of Jekyll Island's primary redeeming value,  natural beauty, while people take a one sided approach to solving Jekyll's financial predicaments.

I continue to read and hear reports the state wants to develop the few remaining natural parcels with high end luxury features commonly found on Amelia, Fripp, Hilton Head, Skidaway, St. Simons, with developments in the hundreds of millions of dollars targeted to the top 10% of wage earners. It sounds like the developers and consultants have convinced everyone Jekyll Island can only survive if we destroy part of it to save all that remains to create another seaside playground for the well to do. Is the true purpose of JIA to orchestrate and develop another exclusive playground for the top 10% income families? Or is the purpose of JIA to protect the natural beauty and provide for future generations?  New development should not be allowed until existing developments are self sustaining. Once they are self sustaining, new development is not required! If that requires demolition and rebuild on existing areas, so be it. 

Let me make myself very clear. Jekyll Island belongs to all Georgians. Not the wealthy. Not the top 10%, 20% or 70%. Jekyll Island belongs to ALL Georgians. Any development which limits accessibility and affordability of Jekyll Island to average citizens (taxpayers) of Georgia is morally, ethically, and legally wrong. Just so you know, I am in the top 5% of taxpayers, I just try to keep things in perspective about how fortunate I am and how others deserve access to public amenities.

The state park system cannot create economic exclusivity on Jekyll. If 50% of citizens earn less than $50,000, then 50% of the features offered on the island must be affordable to those $50,000 citizens. Logically, then 10% of features and amenities can carry a richer price tag for those earning in the top 10% wage brackets. It is my understanding the charter which created the JIA is very specific in regards to providing affordable features to "average" citizens.

Since it is clear an exclusive high end development cannot be the primary solution, what can help create the revenue streams needed to support and protect Jekyll Island for generations to come? Have you looked at eco-tourism as a foundation for economic growth?  Have you looked at partnering with Bernie Marcus and Georgia Aquarium to create learning and education programs for youth and families? Are you making the best use of the 4H facility, or have you neglected it the same as Rock Eagle? Are the athletic fields used for training camps, tournaments, etc on a regular basis with high schools, colleges, etc?  Have you really put forth the mental energy needed to develop creative solutions, or have you just relied on the special interest groups to guide you to the answer that will enrich them at taxpayers’ expense?

Can you even tell me what the current break even point is for Jekyll?  How many more visitors and what revenue is needed to move Jekyll closer to a breakeven point for maintaining the island's current state supported amenities?

I am passionate about this topic because it is my island, my family's island, and belongs to my family's future generations as well. I will not stand by and allow special interest groups to take over my island and limit my accessibility based on economics. Instead of taking the easy way out, work harder and develop a creative solution which meets the needs of the island plus the majority of Georgia's citizens at the same time consistent with JIA charter. That is your job isn't it?

Mike Powers,

Hiram, Georgia, 678 384 0603

In your deliberations regarding changes being considered for the Island, please keep in mind the Georgia Code of Law which has mandated that Jekyll Island be affordable to the average person.

Putting in hotels with the prices I have been shown would certainly eliminate many people from coming back to Jekyll Island.   Also, I believe having condos build where the Buccaneer Hotel was located would be a mistake.   This would inhibit access to the beaches and block the ocean view for others.

Please don't let money grabbing land developers come in and ruin this paradise.   My family and I have been coming there since the 80's and is always our first preference when we decide where to vacation.

Take a look at St. Simon and Hilton Head; developers and money have set them aside for only people of wealth.

Please give this great consideration before destroying this paradise for the average people.

Nancy Hopkins

We urge you to take into consideration affordability when making decisions

about Jekyll's revitalization in general and hotel redevelopment in

particular.  Take a look at the median income of the residents of Georgia

and let that be your guide.

Keep in mind that Jekyll's affordability is part of the Georgia Code of Laws

and as such should figure significantly in your deliberations.

Margaret and William Medeiros, Nantucket, MA 

My family and I have been coming to Jekyll Island for 20 years and we were just there last week.  I was shocked to hear what is going on.  We have all these years praised Jekyll to all we know as affordable and restful.  Our haven from gross commerciality and overpricing throughout this country for beach areas.  To me a vacation is not a vacation without beach (peaceful beach that is).  On Jekyll we can afford to rent a house and walk across the street to the beach.  We can afford to invite family and friends and not ask them to contribute (either because they can't afford it or because it is repayment for like treatment at other locations).  We fix our own meals which helps with affordability.  The golf is also affordable.  We played three times on Jekyll where we wouldn't be able to afford to play even once over on St Simons.  When we first started coming to Jekyll Island we started out renting a house.  We have been renting the same house each time.  When we first came it was $300 and is now a little over $1000 but still affordable.  If hotel room rates go to $250 I would hate to think what houses will go to!!!!!!  One thing is for sure is that a family tradition will no longer be possible.  My first grandchild will be born this year; will I be able to give my grandchild the same memories his mother has???????   Don't allow Jekyll to become another oasis for only the rich.  How many hearts will you break?

Sue Gay, Louisville, KY

I love to visit Jekyll because it has been kept in a more natural state.  My interest is in the wild life and natural environment, not swank accommodations. Please do not allow greedy developers to over develop this special place.

My second concern is keeping hotel rooms affordable on the island.  What to me is affordable would be $80.00 to $90.00 a night for two double beds.

Thank you for your stewardship of what is a natural treasure belonging to all Georgians.

Jo Hamby, Pine Lake, GA

                             

We have been staying at Jekyll for nearly 10 years now, since we first moved to Georgia. We were first attracted by the State Musical Theater of Georgia, where our son spent two summers.  We were devastated when the theater lost it's funding, as we enjoyed so many happy evenings there over the years.  One of the main reasons we continue to come, is the fact that we can afford to stay for an entire week, usually by renting one of the houses or duplexes available on the island. 

We love to visit, and would love to spend additional long weekends on Jekyll.  We used to do so, staying at the Holiday Inn.  It began to decline, and of course is now gone.  If there were attractive, affordable hotels available, we would be able to return every few months.  For us, that hotel needs to be $100 per night or less.  Something along the lines of a Hampton Inn, Holiday Inn Express, etc.  We would want these hotels to be located where the present and recent hotels have been, not tucked into some obscure corner of the island.

We appreciate the fact that Jekyll is a simple, peaceful place to enjoy the ocean.  Without the noise and distraction of lots of clubs, theme parks, etc.  Surely people looking for that type vacation have more than enough places from which to choose.  Please save our island from becoming "just another Hilton Head", or God forbid, Panama City Beach.

We ask that you remember the Georgia code, designating Jekyll as a place for "the plain people of Georgia".  The wealthy clientele you are trying to attract is the very thing we "plain people" try to avoid while on vacation.  They can go to Sea Island, or St. Simons, or any of a number of other Georgia places.  Jekyll Island is a state park.  The law was written to keep it that way.

You can be sure that we, along with thousands of other Jekyll Island lovers, will be watching your actions.

Rich and Sharon Selzer, Snellville, GA

A Selection of Comments from Survey Responders

Affordability is something that can be reached by the "average" family, or guest. We stayed on Jekyll because we felt like not only was it affordable, but it was amazing.  If the prices go up, then our visits will be much shorter and we will feel Jekyll's value has decreased.  There is nothing wrong with the Buccaneer as it stands, and the prices are right in line with where we could afford to pay.  It looks nice, has a "homey" feel and we loved our room (and the price).

UNAFFORDABLE would be (c) $175-$200 a night for a standard room.  We paid that rate for a Suite.  If a standard room now costs as much as a Suite used to cost, we may find another vacation spot!  We already thought the restaurant prices were a bit high but we were comforted by the great room we had. 

I am personally very saddened by the newsletter you sent out, as we loved our vacation this year and would love to go back in subsequent years.  Our family is growing and our pocketbooks are shrinking.  If the prices go up as you suggest, we won't be coming back.

Thank you for all you do,

Kristine Hoskins

In response to your question:  assuming that these beds are each queen, or double, our limit would be $200 per day.

My father, Vincent Connerat was Director of Tourism at the time of purchase by the state of Georgia, under Governor Herman Tallmadge, as was, I believe, instrumental in suggesting to the Governor that this would be a wonderful present to the people of Georgia, which it certainly has proven to be.

There are many places on the coast that would better suit the “pocketbooks”, and probably, tastes, of the wealthy folks...let's keep Jekyll available for "everyone"!!  Right up the road is Sea Island, where I sometimes vacationed as a child growing up in Atlanta, and even as an adult...but never again. They have opted to go for the big bucks.  I could not, even if I preferred it to Jekyll, WHICH I CERTAINLY DO NOT, ever return to Sea Island because THAT resort has chosen to go strictly after the wealthy.  PLEASE DON'T ALLOW THAT TO HAPPEN TO JEKYLL - it is a national treasure, preserving wildlife and actually caring about nature!

Mary Anne Connerat Kendall, native of Georgia

“Affordability” means that a short trip to Jekyll, something like a three night stay, would cost no more than $500.00 for two people.   That is, $500.00 for lodging, meals, and island access fees.  We have thoroughly enjoyed such stays for many years.  Those that want big hotels, high prices, lots of shopping, and the noise of big crowds are welcome at St. Simons.

“Unaffordable” would mean anything over $125.00/day for the 2 bed room rate.

Those of us who love Jekyll as it is don’t want any further large developments.  We don’t go to Jekyll to see big hotels, big crowds, or fancy shops.  And those of us who are now retired and have pretty much fixed incomes would have a hard time justifying trips to Jekyll if the big developers get their way and the prices go way up.

Arthur C. Hughes, Marietta, GA

Affordability for the "average" person should be related to some % of the average annual income of the state's residents.  I cannot imagine being the average family of 4 making $40k/yr and having to pay high-end prices for a vacation, thus taking a significant % of annual income.  At $250/day for a room, a week's vacation would be $1500, before food and other entertainment.   That is not reasonable for the majority of people out there.  We feel there are enough high-end places that people with money to burn can go.  Does this not constitute income discrimination?

We feel that a room rate of greater than option b) $125-$150 at peak season is pushing the upper limit of affordability for the average person. 

P & W Stamper, Chattanooga, TN

Regarding Jekyll affordability for a two-bed room, per night, $125-$150

would be unaffordable.  We are both retired and live on a definite fixed

income.  We would be considered average citizens for our ages.

Thank you so much for your efforts to keep Jekyll Island affordable and

natural.

M. Joan Rodriguez and Charlie Rodriguez

For our stays on Jekyll Island my wife and I would find the $125-$150 range very

problematic, anything beyond that would be clearly unaffordable to us. Put simply, the top of the $125-$150 range would shorten our stay and ($150-$175 and beyond would make Jekyll inaccessible to us.

For the remainder of our family (an additional six people), who come to

the Island twice a year for approximately three weeks altogether, the same

constraints would hold.

And if I could just "vent' for a moment about what I would say to the JI

Authority. ..... "You have made Jekyll Island unique! If it is carrying its

own weight financially, it is almost criminal to try to introduce major

changes in its environment. It is serving a wonderful purpose for   so

many   people of average and less means.  Brush it up, sure, but please

don't change its nature. There are so many places that cater to the

affluent in our world. Please do not spoil this blessed place for the

rest".

Robin and Marjorie Banks 

I feel the hotel fees should be between $100 and $175.  When we are in Jekyll the month of April, the hotels seem almost empty.  Shouldn't that tell them something with their high prices already?  Wouldn't they want to have rooms filled at lower prices rather than empty?  Makes sense to me!!

Thanks for all your hard work and keeping us advised.

Jim and Marilyn Buckhout, Michigan residents who have been visiting Jekyll for almost 30 years.

$125-150 or less is what I consider affordable. Jekyll has got to be within the reach of the average family and retiree.  We will loose the opportunity to be a part of this precious get-a-way if these trends continue...

Thank you for all your hard work.

Barb Miner, Frequent visitor to our Jekyll Island

What do I feel constitutes 'affordability' in a Jekyll context? Moderate and moderately priced accommodations.  Sometimes I camp when I'm trying to save money.  I don't feel a need for 5 star accommodations, or 4 or 3 and anyone who needs that can go OLD SCHOOL at the Jekyll Island Club.  It's not like the "swells" don't have accommodations available for their refined patrician taste.

What would I consider to be 'unaffordable' for a two-bed, room rate per day on Jekyll Island?  $125-$150 is my cutting off place.

I believe affordability of rooms should be similar to current rates in Florida, around the $60-$90 range.

For the unaffordability, issue I believe the $100-$125 range is too much for the average family visiting the island.

Bill Cabell, Jekyll Island

As a former vacationer and now a Glynn Co resident, I feel that an affordable rate would be no more than $150.00 beach view. I consider myself an average Georgian, and I could not stay more than 2 nights at the $150.00 price.

Laura Renke

We believe affordability to be $125-$150 a night for two bed accommodations.  We also believe Jekyll Island State Park will only be for the wealthy if the rates go higher.  Now families come to the Island as a great vacation get away that is affordable and also to enjoy the quiet and natural setting that is so enjoyable to people who are trying to just relax and regain their sanity.  We just came there for a couple of days when Mom recently passed away to just walk the beach, eat in a nice affordable restaurant and just enjoy the serenity that is only available on Jekyll Island.  Don't lose touch with the real people just to get rich.  You may just regret being greedy!

Thanks, the Hunts of Winder, GA

Affordability - a place where middle class Georgians/others can afford to vacation with family/children for a week

Hotel rates - 2 bedroom room rates no higher than $125-150 in summer, lower at other times of the year.  Higher rates should include amenities like kitchenettes, sitting room, etc.

Judy Smith

1. "What do you feel constitutes 'affordability' in a Jekyll context?" The US Census Bureau lists median family incomes by state at this website - http://www.census.gov/hhes/www/income/4person.html. In 2005 the median (middle range) income for a 4-person family in Georgia was $60,676. The median income where we live was lower. Any definition of "affordability" should be based on what a family earning the median income would be able to pay for a weeks stay, without going into debt.

Affordable - must apply to all travelers . . . families of 4, campers, young couples, honeymooners, convention goers

         $100-$125 max per night.

         Jane A. Niehaus, C.R.S, S.H.S.

There are few places where people of "modest means" can go to the beach. 

Our state laws state that "affordability" be the guiding factor of development of Jekyll.  I can only imagine how developers are salivating to get their hands on this wonderful beach property.  Anything over $125.00 per night is out of the realm of "affordability" for most people.  If people want a playground for the wealthy, then they can go to Sea Island and stay at the "Cloister".

Sharon Blackwood

I would consider affordable to be $100.00-$150.00 max per night.

I was very happy to have this sent to me and would like to lend my support - My family and I spent many of our vacations on Jekyll when we were growing up and now my sister and I both bring our own families. As a child of a middle class - hard working family - this was one of the only places that we could come and rent a place that was not over crowded but affordable. My father was a self -employed individual with moderate means but a huge desire to be able to provide his family with a quality and special vacation.

The one thing that we loved then and now is that it is has retained nature - it is not busy and overcrowded like Hilton Head and other similar islands in the surrounding areas. Many of the islands in the surrounding areas have been overdeveloped leaving the natural aspects of the island destroyed.

What I hear coming out of this - instead of making what we have better and placing more into marketing what we have - let’s just add more for the instant financial outcome. First - make sure that what you build can attract enough business. Why not keep the quality of the island and improve the quality of the destinations if needed for affordable - moderate incomes. A true family destination which highlights the quiet beaches (no cars etc), nature, etc.; it would be a shame to lose such a jewel to individuals only focused on the instant, immediate financial outcome and not the result years down the road. My family and I come there for the quiet, serene atmosphere and safety that it provides us without the hustle and bustle of other places.

Emily Stevens, Ph.D., LPC

My family and I have been coming to St. Simons and Jekyll for more

than 75 years.  I feel very invested in keeping Jekyll affordable for middle income Georgians and preserving its natural beauty.  I feel more than $125 a day is too much to pay for a 2 bed room.

Please keep me apprised of all developments and let me know what more

I can do to help.

Susan Murphy, Winterville, GA and Meridian, GA

For me a 2-bedroom rate would be unaffordable over $125-$150 per night.

I have a friend who has a 2 bedroom, 2 bath nice condominium across from the

beach in Seagrove, Fl that I can rent for around $100- $125 per night

depending on the time of year.   And it will sleep six people comfortably.

While it is not plush, it is very nice, comfortable and in a complex of

only two- story units with 2 pools, tennis courts and walking trails. As

much as I love Jekyll Island, why would I rent a place on Jekyll for $250

when I can rent something somewhere else that accommodates more people for

less?

I prefer Jekyll; I love the island, the forests, the marshes, the driftwood

beach and the fact that when I ride around the island, I actually see the

natural beauty of an island and not stucco and concrete.  I take my family

to Jekyll in August when the Georgia schools are back in session, many of

the families have left, and I feel like I have the beaches and island to

myself.   I like Jekyll because it's affordable and I can rent a bike for

$8.00 for 4 hours.  My sons usually play golf and rates seem very

reasonable, you won't go in dept to play a round of golf.   The changes to

Jekyll should not be such that they exclude the average Georgian from

visiting.  I've been a single mom most of my life, and Jekyll was always my

choice first, because I love the island, and second it was always

affordable.

Sounds like the Jekyll Island Authority wants to cater to a few instead of

meeting the needs of many.  Upgrade, yes.  Destroy and out price, no.

Deborah Swinford

I believe that affordability in at Jekyll Island should be based on the average visitor's vacation budget or a fair rate that doesn't break the bank and allows visitors to visit more than once.

Normally when I visit, my family and I stay at a hotel that offers average rooms ($120 - $150) and above average rooms ($175 - $300). This gives a good choice. I do believe that more than $200 for a two-bed room rate per day is pushing the boundaries for most average income families, especially if you want them to return year after year. Otherwise, it becomes a once in a lifetime vacation spot.

Ann McGee

During our most recent stay we stayed at the Oceanfront in a two bedroom villa.  We did have a group rate which was $160 a night.  Needless to say that is a very good price for a villa in a hotel on the ocean.  I would consider paying no more than $100 - $125 a night for just a two bed room and only if the hotel was new with nice amenities.  If Jekyll continues to lose rooms with lower rates, Jekyll will continue to lose more conventions. 

Holly Moore

As a public school teacher, affordable to me means between $100-$125 a night for a room.  For a very special occasion, I would love to go upscale, but I would then go to the Jekyll Island Club with its historical romantic environment.  Is the Jekyll Club filling up most nights anyway?

MaryLynn Huie

I think that the expense of a vacation to the Georgia coast should stay in the 100-150 range for a 2 bedroom accommodation. Many young families do need a break from the busy routine and with the cost of gasoline and other expenses it is harder to afford this luxury.

Eula W. Elder

Thank you for all you're doing in keeping us so well informed. We'll follow up on our opinions on affordability.  We enjoy the month of March each winter at Jekyll. Given the unpredictability of the weather in March we feel that the rate we pay at the villas is a fair tradeoff to be in such an unspoiled place, weather or no.  We do have a number

of friends who have moved further South because of the weather and I'm wondering if you could even attract folks willing to spend mega $$$$$$. I believe that Sea Island is having problems because their rates have gone through the roof. Golfers come down in March for Outings, spend huge amounts on accommodations and get rained out.  The next year, they go someplace else.

  Cynthia Robinson

  In May, My wife and I stayed at the Days Inn. We had a great time. The best part of our vacation was that Jekyll Island is quiet, even on the beach. We were able to hear waves and birds, as opposed to "boom boxes" and screaming kids.

If the proposed development takes place, Jekyll Island will soon become a clone of Tybee Island.

As far as an affordable room rate goes, I don't mind paying $100-135 during peak seasons and $60-80 dollars in the off seasons.

Jeff and Leslie Marsh, East Ridge, TN

First of all thanks for your response and for all you are trying to do to keep Jekyll Island what it was intended to be: a state park!!

When I was at Jekyll last week I stayed at the Days Inn with my mother and aunt. They are both retired and I am a public school teacher (so my salary is controlled by the government and I must say after 23 years of teaching it has just now gotten to be a salary such that I don't worry if I'm going to make it until the end of the month if you know what I mean!!

Having said that I can tell you that I probably wouldn't have afforded the approx. $225 a night at the Days Inn by myself, although I did consider it a good deal since our rooms were oceanside.

I can only answer the question of what is the "average Georgian" based on the people who live here in Northwest Georgia and most of those people work in the carpet industry. Say for a family of four to spend a few days on Jekyll Island I imagine that family would have to save for some time in order to spend what I spent for a few nights at the Days Inn.

So in a round about way I am attempting to answer the affordability question by saying that I believe affordability would be no more than $225 a night for an oceanside room at the Days Inn!!

In all honesty I wish Jekyll was a true state park in every sense of the word with the lodging etc. being operated by the Park Service-which I believe is the Dept. of Natural Resources? But I know that will never happen.

I don't believe there should be "high end" resorts build on Jekyll. I don’t' believe there should be a world class golf course or anything like that, just an updating and refurbishing of the current hotels that are there...Mom and Pop hotels and chain hotels that are geared toward "middle class" (whatever that may be!!)

Please let me know if there is anything else I can do up here in the mountains!!

Trust me the mountains aren't what they used to be either!! I live in Calhoun which is 75 miles from Atlanta and you would think by all the "development" that Atlanta was at the back door!!

Deborah Autry, Calhoun,GA

What do I feel constitutes affordability‚ in a Jekyll context?  Food, recreation, and lodging that a family earning the state average family income can afford. Keep prices tied to this figure. I’d rather it be tied to minimum wage, but these families can’t even afford to take a day off work.

What do I consider to be unaffordable‚ for a two-bed, room rate per day on Jekyll Island?   Most hotels should have $100-$125 rates; there could be 1 or 2 with the $125-$150 range. Anything else is unaffordable for the average Georgian.

I would hope that room rates on Jekyll would continue to remain affordable to the average American family (vs. the 'resort-affluent'). A two-bed room becomes 'unaffordable' when the price exceeds $125-$150.

Thank you for considering my perspective. I have visited Jekyll and thoroughly enjoyed the history and beauty. At the time I was staying in the Jekyll campground.

Marty Ledenham

I think $100-150 would be an affordable rate for a room with two beds for the summer season.  Anything beyond that is getting to be too expensive for regular folks.  If people want to spend a lot more to stay on Jekyll, they can.  The Jekyll Club Hotel offers a wide selection of more expensive rooms.  Villas by the Sea also offers rooms that are nice and a little pricier than the hotels.  JIA needs to help develop hotels that regular folks can afford.  Jekyll is a unique island and we need to keep it that way. 

Jeff and Deborah Adams

We always enjoy staying at the Jekyll Island hotel and having their meal plan included.  Our adult children and grandchildren like the beach, golf and other facilities like the motels on the beach and some of the restaurants. We all are of average means and cannot go to St. Simons and Sea Island anymore because of the expense.  We would like to see the beach improved and the motels updated, but not at the expense of the golf courses and the natural vegetation.  Jekyll is beautiful, fun to walk and bike and get away from this busy world.  

Charles and Shirley Weiksner

I am delighted to be involved in the future of my beloved Jekyll Island!!! I am concerned, not only for the tourists, but also those who have made "financial sacrifices" to live there year-round.

Certainly, what may comprise "affordability" for one person/family may very likely be completely different for another person/family. To me, the cost of a basic room that accommodates 2 people with the only amenities being ironing board/iron, hairdryer, TV/radio and coffeemaker should not exceed $125 per night. Of course, the location/landscaping of the accommodations are a vital factor that may "sway" visitors to pay a higher amount of money. Case in point : Our most recent stay was at the Beachview Club (formally Jekyll Estates). The excellent renovation/redesign of this lodging is outstanding. To me, personally, this is now the lodging of choice; in fact, it is ranked #1 according to trip advisor. I must further state that, to me, this lodging excels because of the personnel who are very friendly and helpful. I must admit, that for 4 nights, in a room that contains 2 double beds plus a TV/radio, coffeemaker, hairdryer, mini- refrigerator, ironing board and iron, dishes (cups, plates, etc.) and small toiletries of lotion, shampoo, dishwashing liquid was, with tax included, approximately $180 per night and quite costly !! This is the most I have EVER spent on accommodations, and I had to budget stringently to be able to pay this amount!!! For me, I feel the intense desire to support the personnel, not only at the Beachview Club, but also personnel who are employed at the "shopping center," the Historic District, the wharf, and other places on this island. Generally speaking, a cost of $200+ per night would probably limit/eliminate most individuals and is, to my way of thinking, unsatisfactory!!! Let Jekyll Island REMAIN affordable for the average person/family!!!

I DO NOT agree with those who desire to eliminate the 4-H Club Camp and to totally change the south end of the Island. Furthermore, we must be mindful of the fragility of sand dunes, turtle nests, and other situations lest they disappear!!!

I have been visiting Jekyll Island since I was a child, back in the 1950s and 60s. Even as a child, I marveled at the fact that this Island provided affordable accommodations for a middle-class family. The best part, which is true today (but not without a fight) is that there can be NO MORE than 35% development. The raccoons, rabbits, deer and other creatures seem to feel relatively safe in this excellent environment!!! The money-hungry "developers" have attempted, on a continuous basis, to erect building after building, to establish a "concrete jungle" as exists at Hilton Head, St. Simons Island (and that is another sad circumstance!!!). So, long live our Island with renovations to be made as needed, but not desecration of this "piece of heaven" to a noisy, hustle and bustle setting 

Keep me posted as events occur!

Ellene Graves

I think anything over $125/day would be unaffordable for the average person.

It is almost impossible for the average family to be able to afford any

vacation site anymore because of exactly what they want to do to this

island-gouge the consumer!

I will write more about my feelings but wanted to express my opinion on this

part.

Ana Short

I THINK THAT MOST WORKING PEOPLE WOULD CONSIDER $100 TO $150 A DAY THE UPPER LIMITS OF AFORDABILITY.  MOST WORKING PEOPLE DO NOT RECEIVE THE EXTRA COMPENSATION BENIFITS OF POLITICIANS NOR THE PAY AND PERKS OF THE WEALTHY. BUT, WE DO VOTE, PERHAPS NOT ENOUGH TO MAKE UP FOR THE BENIFITS OF VOTING IN FAVOR OF DEVELOPERS, REALTORS, ATTORNEYS AND OF COURSE THE MONIED WHO WOULD RATHER NOT HAVE THE COMMON ELEMENT SPOILING THEIR FUN IN THE SUN.

KEEP THE ISLAND FOR THE PEOPLE, NOT THE FEW!

I think a good definition, in this case, of affordability would be "A weeks pay for a week's stay" . . . or thereabout. If a guy makes $50 grand a year he ought to be able to afford a grand a week for a nice vacation. That's roughly $150 a night.

Question two, $250 and above is not affordable.

If someone makes so much more he can go to St. Simons, Sea Island or Hilton Head Island, or he too may stay at Jekyll but without the $500 a night frills.

Jim Ravenel, CRF, President

Income Property Financing

Roswell, GA

No, I do not think that the prices you quoted are affordable.  What is the average price for a hotel room in GA?  It just so happens that this week-end I was on the road, from a small sampling, Wingate Inn $94 and Hampton Inns seem to run about $84 a night.  Add to this 14% taxes.  I stayed at the Ritz Carlton, Lake Oconee recently, admittedly it was group rates for a special event, it was $195, plus taxes.  I do not consider the Ritz Carlton affordable.

Another point.  Just as the price of construction always seems to be more than first thought, I think that the rooms will be more too.

Here is my major concern – the height.  Will the new buildings be so tall as to shade the beach in the afternoons?  If so, how will this disturb the beach ecosystem?  Not to mention my pleasure since I will not be staying there but only walking in from public access points.  Will they be so tall they need lighting on top to make planes aware?  Will they be able to enforce “blackout conditions” during sea turtle hatching season.

Are there any provisions being made for tent camping?  This seems to be the only way that families of average means will be able to afford to stay on the island.

Thanks for all you are doing,

Janet Sheldon, Moultrie, GA

I don’t know how to answer question one, “What constitutes affordability in a Jekyll context?” I’ve gone to the Holiday Inn – then the Buccaneer – for twelve or more years in March. I’ve been there to attend a Convention. The rate has always been well below $100.00 plus taxes and that is the same as all conventions I attend, about four a year. I do know that I love Jekyll Island but fear that I may never go there again. The convention organizer will have to find somewhere on the coast to hold our annual two conventions. I will miss it.

Question two: I consider a fair rate for a two bedded room per night to be $100.00-$125.00 off season. On season would be $125.00 - $150.00. I can afford more but not a lot of people who go to the March / November convention can. I do hope that some sanity will prevail. I live in Bermuda and madness has taken over in developing tourist properties – and my little Island is being spoiled!

Lorraine Butterfield

Accommodations at various new Hotel/Motel complexes should include peak season rates in the $100 to $150 per single rooms and $150 to $225 two room accommodations as affordable rates.  Some suites and other higher price accommodations should be available for about 25% of available accommodations. Affordability to middle income families is necessary at Jekyll, in my opinion.

RC Sheldon

Affordable is $75 per night. Unaffordable: $125 and above. I doubt I would ever spend this to visit Jekyll. For the money, even Grand Canyon has rooms and cabins from $75-$205 Yellowstone National Park, Old Faithful Inn from $91-159 (budget cabins from $62), Mammoth Hot Springs $72-110.

 

My answer to the affordability question would be B, $125-150 per night per room. Realistically, that is probably tops for many people and I think any more would be unfair. Still hoping Jekyll Island remains available to most Georgians.

Craig Bowman

Affordability is a good value at a good price that falls within the means of the average wage earner in Georgia. Note the key words are "in Georgia". An average income computation would require that all incomes be considered, from the very poor to the very rich. In as much as I predict that the vast majority of Georgians would fall somewhere in the middle, this would be fair to me.

What would I consider to be ‘unaffordable’ for a two-bed, room rate per day on Jekyll Island? Understanding that proprietors and venders must charge a fair price based on their overhead, I should hope that decent accommodations could be built with peak season prices in the range of $125-$150 per double occupancy room in mind. Off season prices should be in the $100-$125 range to encourage visits. That implies that I feel prices above these ranges would be excessive and discriminatory. And this is not a word that I toss around casually. Even the Disney Resorts can be had in these price ranges.

There are already "playgrounds of the Rich and Famous" available all over the world. Jekyll is the stated exception, by Georgia law.

It is disappointing to me that the JIA, which should have the common man's interests at heart, are obviously succumbing to the almighty dollar. Shame on them, and you can give them my name and number if they'd like to hear it from me personally!

Thanks, Egans!! God Bless you and our cause!

Lewis and Betsy Baker, Lawrenceville, GA

From the tone of your note about affordability, it seems that the developers want to recoup their expenses as quickly as possible.  But more important, it seems that the leaders and planners won't say the word -- Exclusive.

Like the rest of the coast, some people think it should all be for the Deserved Elites.  And they do by simply pricing everything out of the Average Family's reach.

I have no idea how you, or any organization, will stop this.  You can't fight big money.  And the people will deny any fact you present about a low affordability.  They will finally determine an average daily rate will have to be $250-plus, or more.

All I can say is, Jekyll was fun while it lasted.

Ray Autrey

I feel that the fact that Jekyll is a state park must not be lost in redevelopment and redirection of J.I.'s future. I feel strongly that J.I. is a people’s island. I feel that the JIA and the state government must address and recognize that Jekyll should be a place for the Georgian and others of average income can afford. What does this mean? Well I do not think it takes a rocket scientist to figure that out. It only takes looking at tax returns to find out the average income of Georgia's citizens is. Then what can these citizens afford for a stay at the beach. I have a rate guide for the 2006 Days Inn an Oceanside room

goes from $130-150 a day during the season. I feel b), $125-$150 per night, would be my answer.

I did forward this information to a couple of friends and friends of Jekyll. Thanks for all your hard work,

Sam Davis

Regarding the underserved population on Jekyll, if they are referring to wealthy vacationers, they can find luxury accommodations at the Jekyll Island Club Hotel.  Most every room is over $200/night and many are over $300/night in season.

For me, I rarely pay over $125 for a hotel room and when I do it is mostly for work reasons.  I would say that "unaffordable" to the average person would be a room over $125/night.

Chris J.

I think a) $100-$125 would be affordable.  Why can’t there be some expensive hotels for people with money that can afford the best and a motel 6 for people like me and my family that want to go to the beach and be able to enjoy it because I know I am not breaking my budget. 

Lori Hines, Tifton, GA

Unaffordable for us would be $125 and up. For many families, a), $100-$125, would be the only option, and that would be a stretch.

They do seem to want Jekyll to be exclusive and not something for regular people.

Thanks for all of your hard work with this.

Susannah Hendrix Bellew

  As a couple living on social security income affordability is of constant concern to us. Since our income is limited, we are unable to make the yearly trips to Jekyll that we formerly enjoyed. We are thrilled to be able to go every other year. We usually rent a house or an apartment to help cut costs of eating our meals out. Occasionally we have stayed in a hotel. Rates that are listed in this email would prohibit our ever being able to stay in a hotel. I honestly cannot see the need for an additional 300 rooms being added to the Buccaneer. Why ruin the view to the ocean with a structure like that? Why can't the well to do exist in a hotel that is moderately priced. Are they that much "better" than the rest of us. Haven't those of us of "average means" been faithful in our support both financially and in promoting the beauty and serenity of the island for years. I am a proponent of "if it ain't broke, don't fix it"!

I would consider a room rate of $60-$90 to be affordable to those in a

low/moderate to moderate income.  I hope we never see the day when only the

upper middle class-rich will be staying on the island!!

Hopefully, the big developers, etc. will be kept at bay (pun intended!!??).

Joe Webster, Rutherfordton, NC

The following is a history and prices we paid for our stays on Jekyll Island:

2002 (Our first visit), we stayed at the Jekyll Inn and paid 88.75/night (including   

all taxes); 2003, we stayed again at the Jekyll Inn and paid 83.31/night (including all taxes); 2004, we missed this year for Rita had some surgery; 2005, we stayed at the Beachview Club and paid 87.69/night (including all taxes); 2006, we stayed at the Jekyll Oceanfront and paid 118.72/night, including all taxes.  We also stayed at the Days Inn in 2006 and paid 118.72 (Including all taxes); 2007 we stayed at the Days Inn and paid 88.71 (Including all taxes) this room did not face the Ocean. All of our visits to the Island were in April and all hotels were on the Ocean.

Our affordability range would be approximately what we have been paying - between $90 to $120 per night including taxes. These rates sometimes were through the visitors’ center for the hotels were offering special pricing for they were not filled.  How do they think they are going to fill them by more than doubling the rates?

We are retired and (obviously) on a fixed income.  The developer’s idea of keeping the "average people" from staying on the shore and suggesting they drive from the interior of the Island to enjoy the Ocean is the arrogant attitude so prevalent in business these days.

We live in the suburban Rochester, NY area and up when local government has this type of attitude, we always say "follow the money" or, in other words, who is going to get rich from the proposition being considered. The people usually getting rich are the developers and the local politicians. 

If there is anything else we can do please E-Mail us,

Jim and Rita McGurn

“What do you feel constitutes ‘affordability’ in a Jekyll context?” -according to the Merriam-Webster’s definition of "afford" is:  a: to manage to bear without serious detriment  b: to be able to bear the cost of. If those money hungry ignoramuses are contemplating charging an arm and a leg for a room per night down there, then NO, that DOESN'T meet the definition of "affordability".  The average American/Georgian wasn't born with a silver spoon in their mouth and cannot afford to provide a fun family vacation for $250 a night.  That is ridiculous.  I'm sorry that all these idiots appear to be oblivious to the fact that they are ruining a perfectly good sacred environment just b/c they want to earn a buck or two.  I doubt they all grew up living the life of luxury from day one and have worked very hard to have their millions they have now, BUT not all of us have come upon that monetary success in our lives.  I consider myself very successful not b/c I make a lot of money, but b/c I have enough to live comfortably and enough to take weekend vacations to Jekyll Island on a blue collar budget.  $250 a night is NOT affordable and would be considered "bearing a serious detriment" to most of the current Jekyll Island supporters/visitors. 

What would I consider to be ‘unaffordable’ for a two-bed, room rate per day on Jekyll Island? Anything $150 or greater would be "unaffordable.  Leave Jekyll like it is and go build your own island.  Dubai did it, are we not competent enough to do the same?

At my age and with driving restrictions, it is unlikely that I will be able to enjoy that lovely spot again.  My concern is that it will end up like Gulf Shores, Alabama, and other such places.  I loved Gulf shores, but when they rebuilt after a hurricane, I lost interest in it.

There is something majestic about the beauty of the ocean and nature unobstructed by man-made condos, etc.  When man gets a hold on what God created, greed gets in the way of sensible preservation.   The only people to benefit are the shareholders and those among us who only see beauty or value, for that matter, in expensive activities.

For many families -- ordinary, decent hard-working people with families-- rates for a room such as you describe that are beyond $100-125 per room [your choice (a)] would be a hardship, especially if they had several children.  There needs to be an availability of simple, clean places to stay with access to the beauty of the ocean for families.  I remember staying in such a place with an ocean view when I was there for a meeting.  I loved it far more than fancier hotels I have stayed in other cities over the years.  

Mary K. Knight

My husband and I are retired teachers who live in upstate New York. We have been going to Jekyll with area friends for years now to play tennis and bike on the island and bird watching. We go to Jekyll in March and share a condo with friends. By doing this we average about $70.00 per day. What clearly is unaffordable is anything above $150 per day.

Sally and David Vrooman, Canton, NY

I agree, the idea that Jekyll Island should have higher motel rates to accommodate all Georgians and all visitors is an oxymoron. With emphasis on” Moron”.

As with most politicians and big developers today, they think they know what is best for the rest of us. 

Keep up the good work, and keep us all informed.

Robert & Marilyn Simpson

Okay so I am just one of the little people, not the rich people. Unless Jekyll stays below $125.00 then I would much prefer to spend the monies at St. Simons.  Jekyll since a small child has always been a fun beach place due to the fact that is not overcrowded or expensive. It is a rarity in today’s world. Why do away with that when green space is all we hear these days. The Jekyll Island Authority and all others involved are listening to the money pots not the others. They should be banned from service on these boards. Georgians do not want what they want.

Pat Tyson

Since I've always considered Jekyll Island a destination for the average Georgian, as the original charter intended it to be, I think it is reasonable to keep hotel rates consistent with that philosophy.  As a retired teacher, if I'm traveling with a friend with whom I can share expenses, I can afford about $125-$150 a night, and even that's a bit of a stretch.  Unaffordable and pricing me out of a Jekyll vacation would be room rates that exceed $150.00 a night.

Since wealthy vacationers have other nearby seaside options such as Hilton Head in South Carolina and St. Simons Island in Georgia as well as the hotel on the bay side of Jekyll, it is unnecessary for them to destroy the south end of Jekyll as well.  Those of us in lower income brackets have a right to enjoy a beach vacation.

The avaricious developers and their wealthy clients who want to exploit Jekyll Island seem to think they have exclusive title to every inch of beauty in this country and then want to deny access to the rest of the population.   Allowing them to move forward with their plans will result in a tangle of gated communities, and the beach and marsh will be visible only to those new homeowners.

Thanks for what you are doing to save the people's island! Let me know if there's anything I can do to help.

Brenda Constan

I cringe when I hear that the prices for the new hotels will be $250/night. I feared that might be the case.  I would never be able to stay there for a week, which is how long I usually stay on the island when I visit. As a single traveler, I think I would have

difficulty paying more than $150/night. After airfare, a week at the Days Inn @$100-125/night (which has been affordable so far), car rental, and restaurants, etc., it easily adds up to nearly $1500. I'd have to rethink my vacation plans if lodging rates increased too much.

I realize that most oceanfront hotels at other "resorts" are much more expensive than those I've stayed in on Jekyll. Maybe I'm spoiled. But I guess I'm not willing to pay $250 a night for a room I spend very little time in. 90% if my day is spent OUTSIDE, enjoying the beauty of the island. A motel with rooms that are clean and safe, with the basic amenities--fridge, microwave, TV--and a swimming pool is all I'm looking for, at an affordable and reasonable price. Hopefully, "affordable and reasonable" will prevail, and I will be able to continue making my yearly pilgrimage to Jekyll Island.

Thank you for the opportunity to share my thoughts.

What constitutes affordability?  The current $3 parking fee (and then no more fees for parking lots or bathhouses, etc), affordable dining and lodging options for families (see below) and keeping pricing reasonable for bike rental, Mini-Golf, Summer Waves, historic tours and such---which right now, they are reasonable.  Jekyll is not, and doesn't need to be, Hilton Head.  That island is certainly an option for folks who want to spend more.   I think that anything over $150 per night for 2 beds, a small fridge and microwave is too much.  The hotels at issue will probably have lots of expensive amenities----but are they really the ones that folks who Jekyll attracts need?  I enjoy the lack of computer and exercise equipment....just not something I'd like to pay for.  One of my concerns is the lack of affordable (and plentiful!) dining options.  It's really hard to take a family---like my 1 and 3 year old grandsons---out for dinner on Jekyll, especially on a weekend.  First, because appealing and affordable dining options for them don't exist (except at Zach's Eats and Treats) but secondly and more importantly because lines are so long that waiting with them is basically impossible.  I'm NOT looking for fast food franchises, but more of a Denny's or Shoney's or even Applebee’s type of place. A few years ago, my family of four came down for the July 4th celebration.  We ate at one of the very few food vendors---who (without any prices posted!) charged $12.50 per head for a hotdog, small bag of chips and a canned soda.  That is as much or more than at the huge ballparks---and their food is better, and quantities are bigger.  Thankfully we had $50 on us, since the restaurants were packed and the IGA closed for the night, but it left us with sour feelings.  ENOUGH OF THAT, I SAY!

Terri Bailey, Tucker, GA

Affordability...means something people of average means have the ability to pay. To me, affordability in a hotel room is when I pay somewhere between $60 & $80. I prefer something cheaper but it is hard to find cheaper. And if you look hard enough you can find a room with a refrigerator and microwave for that amount too.

          I wouldn't even consider renting anything in the $100-$125 per night range unless it was a very, very special vacation. Paying this much for a room is pretty much unaffordable to me to begin with.

Vicki Williams, Marietta, GA

Affordability during the peak season, in our opinion is $200-225 okay for average to nice hotels and more for upper- scale hotels.  Unaffordable for average hotels is above $250.00 and above 350.00 for nicer hotels.

An example is we just stayed at the Oceanside Inn. The pool is dilapidated and the rooms are not top of the line. However, we don't come for the room!  My husband is 38 and stayed there as a child. If it were demolished and re-built, we could understand and expect a price increase.  Last weekend we stayed there for $180 per night.

I think we are a good example of a lower middle class family. We have a brother who lives in Brunswick but we prefer to stay at the beach and on the Ocean.  Fewer hotels means people will pay more!

Steve and Lauren Stoklosa, Leesburg, GA

My husband is a police officer and I am a substitute teacher.  We have two children and have been coming to Jekyll for 10 years.  Affordability to us means being able to go on vacation for a week for $1000 - $2000.  This includes lodging, food, entertainment, and gas.  I realize that this is a large range, but some years we can afford more.  For instance, last summer we rented a 2 bedroom duplex for $525 a week.  This summer, my mother helped on our lodging so we were able to stay in a home on the beach after splitting the cost for $850 each.  Typically, we eat in most of the time and go out maybe once for dinner and once for lunch.  Our favorite is Sea Jays and we eat there when we go out.  Entertainment on the island is important to us.  Tidelands nature center, mini golf and summer waves have been favorites over the years.  Now the Sea Turtle Center is amongst our favorite.  BUT, all are affordable!  We bring our bikes and just love the trails and love to fish and crab at the pier.  Both of these activities are free (except for bait).  Best of all on Jekyll is the wildlife and nature that we enjoy.

What would we consider to be ‘unaffordable’ for a two-bed, room rate per day on Jekyll Island?  $125-$150.

Thank you for your work on this.  Jekyll is very special to my family and I will be writing to the JIA board and continue to write to my congressmen!

Denise Ryan, Dallas, GA

Unaffordable:  anything over $125-$150, and I’d expect two beds and a kitchenette at that rate. 

Lou Brackett, Assistant Professor, Clayton State University

What constitutes affordability is certainly a wide open question.  While I'm not sure how log a family of 2 to 4 stays on the island my estimate would be  about 1 week on average.   Well healed quests may wish to focus on St. Simons - Jekyll is for those who enjoy the simpler style of accommodations which lends itself to less traffic and congestion.  We then can 'frequent' the local restaurants and other amenities without the concern of how much we have - dollar wise to fit our wallet.  With the aging of our population and generally on a fixed income, thought should be given to the visitors of a more moderate means.

What to me is "unaffordable" for hotel accommodations is anything over $125 per night max. My wife and I have been visiting Jekyll for the past 4-5 years at the campground. We look forward to our February-March stay; it’s an ideal combination of cost-nature and history. Yes, I know the cost per night is less than a hotel, but the simplicity and lack of congestion is sure a draw.  If I had to drive from our home in Michigan and stay in a hotel for a winter escape, it would sure be for a shorter time and maybe not at all.  My guess is the 'average' Georgian would appreciate a more moderate venue rather than another high priced place for the well-to-do.

Thanks, Don Cannistraro

We have vacationed at Jekyll for years.  We go there for the wildlife, the unique natural surroundings, the lack of hustle, the friendly people, and especially because we pay $120 per day.  If Trammel Crow has their way, we will stay home, or go elsewhere, and Jekyll will belong to the privileged rich, not the average Georgian.

Why is Jekyll Island like a river?  Because any fool can build a dam, but only God can make a river.

If they destroy what God made, it's gone forever.

Affordable?  What you have now is affordable.

Gary Bock

"What do you feel constitutes 'affordability' in a Jekyll context?"  Family

friendly accommodations with the standard amenities that don't tax the income of

average individuals, with average incomes.  Not all of us have trust funds "What

would you consider to be 'unaffordable' for a two-bed, room rate per day on Jekyll

Island? I think $175-$200 is too much for the average GA family because there

are still meals and entertainment and other incidentals one must consider.

LaTonya M. Paschal Stockbridge, GA

I go to Jekyll once or twice a year in what I consider the off-season, late August to early September and/or sometime in December.  My sole purpose in going is to "bird".  I usually stay for three nights, so $100 a night is about the limit of my affordability and it is getting more and more difficult now to find a room at that rate.  With taxes, the bill for three nights is over $300, then there is a tip for the chambermaid and I have a few meals while I'm there.

Carroll Richard, Hampton SC  

In our case, affordability means having a room rate that doesn't exceed

$150.00 day, no matter what season, but it also includes affordable places to eat.  With the demise of Denny's and the Huddle House, that leaves almost no place to eat that I would consider affordable.  I have gone to the GMEA convention, which moved from Jekyll to Savannah a number of years ago, and while Savannah certainly offers more to see, it is always in January, which is "off season", and the room rates at everything but the huge hotels is always less than $150.00.  I would hate to see it in a way, but perhaps a deal with the devil (McDonalds) would help.  Even Disney had to do that.  As far as convention business goes, some sort of shuttle service would help that, along with more

food venues of an affordable sort.

As you can tell, I could rattle on forever about this.  The main thing to remember is that Jekyll Island belongs to the people of Georgia, it is a state park.

Frank Kilgard, Jr.

In response to your question about Jekyll Island and affordability for hotel accommodations, there is already a hotel on the island that accommodates the higher end of the market, and that is the Jekyll Island Club Hotel.  Their room rates in season are easily in the $200.00 +/- per night range without adding state, local and hotel taxes, so that end of the spectrum is covered in my opinion.  I think they are doing a pretty good job of keeping the hotel occupancy numbers where they want them.  With that in mind, it seems the other hotels could offer a substantial portion of their rooms in the $150.00 +/- range and still have some deluxe accommodations that are priced higher.  Like most hotels, a range of accommodation types and prices cover more of the market, and therefore the hotel has a better chance of staying occupied more of the time.

Don Lewis

I am a teacher in KY. Last spring I discovered Jekyll Island. I was pleasantly surprised to find a hotel I could actually afford. The cost was $100 per night. I was only staying 3 nights so I could swing it. As a rule I only have between $500 and $700 for my vacation budget. If I can't find a hotel for around $75/night I am very limited in what I get to do with my money. If the cost of a motel/hotel on Jekyll goes to $250/night there is no way I can stay and enjoy the Island's atmosphere and charm. While I realize that the Island is a real estate golden egg, I feel there are a whole lot more people's interests at stake here than those wanting to get rich off the development of Jekyll. The average and below average income family has just as much interest and right to be able to enjoy the coast line and ocean along Georgia's eastern border as those upper income families who flock to planned communities along the shore lines of America. We just don't have the money. Jekyll is the one place we can go.  Please keep the Island financially accessible to those of us who are lower income. We really have no other place to go.

Debbie Payne, Knox Co. KY

I think "affordability" means that working class (middle and lower middle income) Georgians are able to make use to the facilities at Jekyll at a rate that does not consume more than a month's income. Use the Georgia median income as a guide to an average monthly income.

I would think that a nightly rate of over $200 would be unaffordable for many middle and lower middle income families.

Jim Gaudin

We believe all the stated amounts would be unaffordable for the accommodations on the island. Maybe the a)--$100-$125--would not be too bad, but would limit our stay.  Most definitely the higher prices would be out of our reach and we would have to mark Jekyll Island off of our most favorite places to stay list.

Thanks for keeping us updated.

James & Melba Leggett

 

We just spent a week on Jekyll.  This was our second trip to the island. We are very concerned that we will not be able to afford another trip there. The rate of our hotel room went up 33% in two years. If this trend continues, Jekyll will no longer be affordable for our family.  We have to factor in meals (Jekyll is very limited in this). So “affordable” to our family is about $1,500 for a week’s stay. We did go over that this time and have started looking into rentals for next time If there is a next time because of rising costs. We would consider $175 and above for a two-bed, room rate per day on Jekyll Island to be “unaffordable” $150 pushed our budget this time when you consider a week-long trip --to travel that far (1,100 miles) for any less time is not affordable either.

Terri and Michael Hehn

  I think by affordability it means that it would be affordable for everyone, not just the upper class who makes up a very small percentage of Georgia's population.  The vast majority of Georgia's population is working-class with average incomes of 40-50 K a year who also have bills to pay and lots of financial needs they must take into consideration when planning a vacation.  By affordability, I think it means that the prices should be fair to the average Georgian who can't afford 150-250 dollars a night for a hotel room.

What would I consider to be 'unaffordable' for a two-bed, room rate per day on Jekyll Island? $175 on up. -- Tracy Nichols

I am so excited to become a voice to STOP the developers from "raping" the pristine land of Jekyll Island!  The question of affordability seems to be lost with the Jekyll Authority and big deal developers!  If they would once consider the average family of 3 children and a parent making $10.00 an hour they would see that $250 a night would only afford their affluent friends to enjoy Jekyll. We do NOT need huge hotels built but rather affordable motels.  Affordable to me means....$75 to $100 per night.  The $3 parking fee is ample for each car coming onto the island.  This is a "State Park"!!!! 

I would like to see a vote on development of Jekyll for the people of Georgia to decide the future of the island.  I would also like to see one of our State Representatives and Senators push to make this a National Park.  This would stop the development in its tracks!!!!!!

       Peggy Brown, Macon, GA

I feel that $125.00 to $150 for a "standard class" hotel during peak season would be the most any middle class family would pay.  Personally even though my wife and I have deemed Jekyll Island our favorite place to visit, we would be hard pressed to pay $125.00 per night.

Typically we stay at the Days Inn and in the winter months average paying between $55 and $70 a night.  This is off season though.

I think you are doing amazing work and please keep it up.  This is a treasure generations can't afford to loose.

Thank you, Shane & Shelia Radford

Sorry we did not respond sooner, we've been away.  We come to Jekyll for the month of March and stay at Villas.  Out rate, including taxes and housekeeping is well under $100 per day. As much as we love coming to Jekyll, at a base rate of $100 per day, we would likely go elsewhere.  Thanks for the work you all are doing.

Robert and Nona Vierkant, Danbury WI

I would image the average Georgian would afford pretty much what the average Wisconsinite could afford. I won't pay over $160 a night for a hotel, beachfront

or not.  And for a seven night stay in one of the cottages that I share with other family members, I won't pay over $700 for the week, or $2800 for the cottage total.  If prices would go beyond that, Jekyll would no longer be affordable for my family. 

We have been coming to JI for the better part of 25 years.  I have estimated as a family, between food, lodging, transportation, entertainment, golf, souvenirs, etc. we spend collectively around $8,000 to $10,000 for the week.  That's roughly $200,000 to

$250,000 that went directly to the local economy.  The people next door to us this year were from Ohio and this was their 14th year. And every year we met another family who just like us, makes it their annual family vacation, not just one year but many years

running.  

I really think everyone is missing out on what bring us back year after year after year after countless years.  It's quiet, not overrun with what developers think our beach vacation should be about (PS. It's not about upscale shopping, or a condo with a perfect

view, or para sailing and renting jet ski's, it's plain and simply the beach, without the rocks, please.)  And it's affordable!!!!!!  If JI becomes too developed, we won't and I imagine many others, Georgians and other Americans and many Canadians

alike, will not come back and JI will have lost that residual year after year after year income and what God gave it naturally. 

Your Jekyll Island Friend, Ellen Welden Crisci. Milwaukee, WI

Mary Hudgins

Hello, I am a recent, first-time visitor to Jekyll Island and just wanted to respond to the issue of affordability on the island.

First, I found the island wonderfully affordable.  We rented an ocean front beach house with three other families and paid about $500 for the week's lodging.  I found the gift shops very affordable, with a variety of items for every price range.  The mini-golf and bicycle rental were affordable also.  The restaurants on the island were probably slightly above what I would pay at home to eat out, but that's probably because we were ordering sea food.

I would consider hotel room rates over $150 per night to be "unaffordable".  My entire family really enjoyed our trip to Jekyll Island, the wonderful restoration of the "millionaire" district, the new sea turtle center, the lovely beaches and natural areas.  We hope to come again and again, but not if they start price-gouging and over developing the place.

Mary Jo Crisci, Waukesha, Wisconsin

“What do you feel constitutes ‘affordability’ in a Jekyll context?” -- Hotel/motel rates comparable to other Georgia State Park areas

“What would you consider to be ‘unaffordable’ for a two-bed, room rate

per day on Jekyll Island? -- No more than $100.00 a day

Nancy S. Jafar

Thanks for letting us know what's going on!  Jekyll is one of so few areas left along the coast that is not horribly developed and overrun with tourists on a constant basis, yet able to accommodate a large number when there are meetings, etc.

As to your question about affordability, I am now 50 years old and all my children are grown.  I remember visiting Jekyll when I was very young, but we were unable to stay overnight.  When my own children were small, and even with a husband employed by Eastern Air Lines, we were unable to afford true "vacations."  We'd do a weekend somewhere several times per year.  The oldest motel/hotel on Jekyll was the destination one year...it was also the cheapest.

Now that I'm older, I can afford $100-150 most of the time.  On rare occasions, I've paid more in New York or other urban areas, but I rebel at paying more for a small room on the water.  Worse still, two of my three children are not able to afford the most reasonable rooms on Jekyll.  They are "typical," in that they represent educated young people who love to travel and look for state parks, etc.  I brought my youngest daughter (in from California) to the island last weekend.  She'd been with me to a convention about eight years ago and loved it!

I think that affordability is of utmost importance; the fact that this is an island with a state park and that the government is involved makes it all the more important to allow the majority of Georgians to enjoy it.  And no, when the rates go above $125, the average family can't stay for more than a couple of nights.  As it stands today, the rooms are still somewhat overpriced for what is offered in the way of service and style (especially the Buccaneer, which is dilapidated!  Still trying to charge full price, though!).

The Jekyll Island Hotel offers luxury for that "other" class to whom the Board seems to want to cater.  I say give the majority of Georgians the ability to visit......not to mention that all this redevelopment will have a HUGE effect, environmentally.  Or, does this not even count when considering?!

Thanks again for your efforts!

Deborah Belyeu 

I feel that affordability means that average income tourist should be able to visit without putting a financial burden on themselves. I think a fair price should be $125 to $150 during peak season. The average person is not going to be able to afford $250 per night plus eating out, traveling expenses, and etc. The most important thing is that Jekyll Island needs to not be disturbed. The environment does not need to suffer just because someone feels they can make a bigger profit.

Pat Cannon

Don't really know how to determine what constitutes 'affordability'. Do we use the annual income of an average family or some other criteria? Do we expect to upgrade the current hotel situation with just franchise residence facilities? I think we have to expect to have upscale hotel accommodations to provide acceptable facilities to those who may visit the Island, for whatever reason. If we expect to encourage the use of the Convention Center to the level it once was and bring revenue to the Island there must be reasonable upgrades and rates that are competitive with the area.

The $250 rate may be acceptable to some and should be available on the 'high end' of the scale. A rate range of $100-125 should also be available for those who wish to relinquish certain amenities for the lesser rate, but still have comfortable and more than just acceptable accommodations, which are and have been for some time, minimally available.

For a family of working class people, who have as much right to access the island as the "upper" middle class, I think 50.00 - 75.00 per day rooms are fair. Evening meals in the range of 10.00 - 20.00. If the more affluent want to visit they should be comfortable sleeping and dining with those less well off. If not, there are many other over developed islands along the coast.Kevin Ionno

Single rooms peak season under $100 per night / off season   $ 65  per night. They should price hotel rooms comparable to State Park rates.  Anything greater than that is in violation of the legislation that the JIA was created under.

Dan white

My suggestion for peak time would be $150.00 - $175.00.   With travel expense and meals for a family of four, I feel this expense could fall in line with the average visitor to the Island.

Money grabbing developers will ruin something that has provided so much happiness to many people over the years. I'm happy to know there are people willing to take up the cause of preserving Jekyll Island.

Nancy Hopkins

Our family has been coming to Jekyll Island for 20 years and if they raise the hotel rates it will only be affordable to the wealthy.  Once again the average person will be left to stay at home and not enjoy such a peaceful place as Jekyll Island.

Sincerely, Susan Gay

I think anything over $150 a night--peak-season or off-season would be pushing unaffordability for an average Georgian.   I think the JIA's Board of Directors should consider what the average Georgian earns.  They need to go to the web-site that gives an average income for Georgia counties.  It really surprised me how low the average incomes were in a lot of the counties.  I think this is what people who are in authority with this project should be in tune with.  They must look around them and think outside of the box.  Travel in their minds away from the coast and think of what Georgia is.  It is mostly rural areas where homes like the ones on Jekyll Island would sell for under $200,000.   I believe an average Georgian earns from $25,000 to $50,000 a year.  The  average Georgian  could never afford to own a home on Jekyll Island so to be able to visit Jekyll Island the rooms need to be affordable.

I want Jekyll Island to be a place that parents and schools can bring the children of the state of Georgia.  I want the children to learn about the history of our coastal region.  I want children that have never seen an ocean or a beach to experience its beauty.   I want them to learn about the sea turtles, wildlife, and other species of creators native to Jekyll Island.   I want them to love Jekyll Island and feel like they have a little piece of paradise that belongs to them because our state cares enough to spend the average Georgian's hard earned tax dollars on something that really matters.  I want them to realize that a price can not be placed on what Jekyll Island has to offer us in its natural state.    I want them to want to protect Jekyll Island so that many generations to come can discover that there is still a place in this world that hasn't been destroyed for the sake of greed.

Susan Evans--Ocilla Georgia

I think 175.00-200.00 per day is affordable. Even at that rate my husband and I can only stay for a few days at a time. We can rent a house on the island for a week for less than we can a hotel room for a week, but we like the Oceanside Inn the way it is!!!! That is the only place we would stay!!!!

I believe a 2-bed hotel room rate above $150 a night would be unaffordable for most "average" citizens, and would certainly limit the number of days they could stay on Jekyll Island.As I said on your survey, Jekyll Island should stay as an affordable place for people with "average" incomes to visit.  There are plenty of other places being built every day for those with higher incomes.The "affordability mandate" built into Georgia law is very important and should not be overlooked.

Christine Parker, Simpsonville, SC

As a newly retired individual and relatively recent visitor to Jekyll Island, I strongly object to the ideas being put forth regarding future room costs on the island.  I would not be able to afford the $100 - $150 a day cost being proposed.  I hate to think that in the near future the island would be off limits to me and many like me, from a cost stand point.  

My experiences with the live beach and the idea that Jekyll Island is a place you can bring family and friends, who would otherwise not have the opportunity to see how the beach changes with each tide, see live sand dollars, whelks, etc. and turtles going to the ocean for the first time, could be lost to thousands of future visitors to the Island.  I am privileged to have had three visits to Jekyll Island during the past 3 years and I have shared my excitement with many of my colleagues, some of who have taken the same opportunity to visit Jekyll Island with their families.  I understand the need for good business that is healthy financially.  But, I don't understand the need for a few developers who appear to be more greedy than concerned for the citizens Georgia, the rest of the US and, indeed all who come to share in the natural beauty of the island.  I had been planning to spend winters on Jekyll Island but now that seems unlikely because of the proposed increase in room rates. Please rethink what is best for more than the wealthy.

Sharron Gilbert

I consider affordability to be anything an average person can afford obviously.  That includes those from lower income scale to lower middle income scale.  Right now Jekyll has places all those can stay from camping for lower, hotels for lower middle and houses for middle (that sound stupid but I don't know how else to describe it).  My family has been coming to Jekyll for 20 years and to this day has not been priced out of our reach.  I am retired now and my husband will be soon.  We still consider Jekyll our retreat to peace and nature.  I am without a doubt frightened of what could happen to prices and our ability to afford Jekyll if developers are let in, especially once we are both retired. Currently we rent a house every other year and invite family members to join us without asking them to chip anything in.  We pay for the entire house.  If we can't afford the house, we can't invite the family members.  We invite those who otherwise couldn't afford to come and we invite those who have invited us to other locations without asking us to pay.  Staying in a house allows us to cook our own meals which also makes the trip affordable.  One last thing about Jekyll that needs to stay affordable is the golf.  With the passport we were able to play three times last week when we were there.  If we went over to St Simons we wouldn't have been able to afford once!

Anything over $130 per day would not be affordable.

Sincerely, Sue Gay

Let's look again to mom & pop style motels the model of which is in Panama City, Fla.  These motels are still operating on the western end of the beach and have not been developed by condos and national chain motels.  

Anything double a double room over $80 per night is not affordable to the market which has been the Jekyll Island authority’s mandate since the island was first developed in the mid 1950's.  The item not mentioned in this discussion which keeps Jekyll from being a premier vacation site is that the water is always dirty from the flow of the Savannah River.  A great place to go to the beach, but not a great ocean to stay in, because it is dirty from the Savannah River. The Savannah River issue is the bargaining chip needed to keep the big time developers out.

R. D. GOTSCH

 

I consider Jekyll affordability to be “a one week vacation for a family of 4 staying in a Jekyll Island hotel (not a villa or condo) to be approximately $1800. Any less would be just about impossible with current prices. This dollar amount would include 7 nights’ lodging, all meals in restaurants (rather than cooking in an efficiency or full kitchen rental) and recreation/entertainment.

My husband and I just spent June 24-29 at The Beachview Club. We had a king efficiency unit with AARP discount for a total cost of $844 for those 5 nights lodging. We went on the historic district tram tour, went to GA Sea Turtle Center, and ate all meals @ island restaurants except for one night when we ate in Brunswick. Our total expense for the basic necessities of lodging, meals and island parking fee of $15, was about $1100. We did buy snacks & sandwiches, chips drinks, etc. for lunches in our room. However, we got these groceries at the Brunswick Wal-Mart rather than paying the higher prices at the JI grocery store. So my $1800 estimate for an average family of four is including meals for 2 additional family meals and extra lodging expense due to the higher cost of a rental unit with 2 beds rather than 1 and for staying 7 nights rather than just 5.

As for my definition of affordability on the cost of a hotel room, I would have to select c, $175-$200 from the list of multiple choices, if I were paying for a room with 2 double beds. Of course, at my age, my mindset is to think along the lines of AARP discount, so room rates which I consider are always 10% less than the price they would be for people who are too young to get AARP discounts.

Sincerely,

Linda and Jay Smith, Jackson, TN  

I consider affordability on Jekyll for a basic 2 bed or queen or king bed on the oceanfront w/view no more than 150/night during peak season. I know that this can be had and as for 2bdrm villa no more than 279/night during peak season. Your average person whether they are a native of Georgia or as some of the guests I have met from Florida, North Carolina and even as far as Michigan have told my family & I how much they enjoy the comfort of Jekyll Island and the fact that they can afford to a longer vacation due to the modest rates but high quality accommodations.

Carol Cox

Of course, I would much prefer to pay the $100-125 rate; however, anything up to $150 rate would be affordable.  More than that would be unaffordable for us.  We can go to St Augustine FL and stay on the beach for around that price, and the beach and water there are much cleaner.

James Reynolds

I think $100 - $150 for a regular room (2 double beds) is affordable and more so for ocean front properties. $200+ per night is pushing the limit of affordability. 

Terilynn B.Knezek, FACS Port for South East Program Manager. Atlanta

I feel that affordability means that the average American family can afford to spend a vacation on the island.  When you factor in the cost of attending local attractions, food, gas, and hotel accommodations, most people can only afford to spend 100-175 per night.  I feel that anything above that is just too expensive. If there are people who want more upscale accommodations, let them stay at the JI Club hotel.

The JIA seems to have lost sight of the importance of preserving Jekyll for all, not just the wealthy.  I am a single mother of two.  My family spent every summer on Jekyll when I was growing up.  I am happy to be able to provide that same experience for my children.

Jekyll is unique among the barrier islands of Georgia and South Carolina.  It is unspoiled.   If that changes, it becomes just another tourist spot, like Tybee, or Hilton Head. 

Kim Pierce, Statesboro, GA

We have been staying at Jekyll for nearly 10 years now, since we first moved to Georgia.  One of the main reasons we continue to come, is the fact that we can afford to stay for an entire week, usually by renting one of the houses or duplexes available on the island. 

We love to visit, and would love to spend additional long weekends on Jekyll.  We used to do so, staying at the Holiday Inn.  It began to decline, and of course is now gone.  If there was an attractive, affordable hotel available, we would be able to return every few months.  For us, that hotel needs to be $100 per night or less.  Something along the lines of a Hampton Inn, Holiday Inn Express, etc.

We appreciate the fact that Jekyll is a simple, peaceful place to enjoy the ocean.  Without the noise and distraction of lots of clubs, theme parks, etc.  Surely people looking for that type vacation have more than enough places from which to choose.  Please save our island from becoming "just another Hilton Head", or God forbid, Panama City Beach.

Rich and Sharon Selzer, Snellville, GA

I'm writing regarding keeping Jekyll Island affordable for the average income visitors. I have been coming from Canada to vacation on Jekyll since I was 10 years old and still come with my husband, friends and grown children. My husband and I would like to be able to spend a good part of the winter on the island when we retire in 4 years. From what I'm reading and hearing, the new hotels being built will only be affordable for the wealthy at approx $ 200- 250/night. For seniors and people in their 60's who have just retired that is too high. I hope that these surveys and e-mails that you receive will be taken seriously and Jekyll stays affordable to the average visitors.

Linda Sutherland, Program Support Specialist School of Business

Affordability?   After coming to Jekyll Island for forty years, 2 times this year with another trip planned this fall, I have watched affordability become almost non affordable. The prices have gone up faster than the quality of accommodations. I realize this is an impossible dream, but if the rates would remain close to the present rates and the hotels would be updated to meet the now affordable rates this would capture the needs of all visitors. There is presently a wide range of rates and accommodations, let’s keep it that way! The plan to redevelop and revitalize the hotels to capture an "adequate share of coastal visits" would shut out those of us who can now afford to visit Jekyll and reverse "not serving the needs of some Georgians" AND out of state visitors. Raising rates to $250.00 per day would certainly limit the visitors of average income.  Affordability? I believe we are at the level of affordability for the general public. 

Betty 

Affordability means that a very average Georgia family with two kids might be able to afford at least a weekend hotel stay at Jekyll without breaking the budget.

Anything much over $100/night for a clean room with the usual amenities is probably going to be "unaffordable" for a family of four or more making $40K a year or less.  This is not to say that I think ALL rooms offered on the island should be of the Motel 6 variety, but if every new hotel developed is in the $150+/night range, most average people will be priced out of this market.

Diane Shearer