“You can’t stop the waves, but you can learn to surf.”
– Jon Kabat-Zinn
Dear Litchfield-By-The-Sea Owners,
With June 1st marking the official start of the Atlantic hurricane season, Litchfield by the Sea Master Association, sub-associations, and individual property owners within LBTS must turn their attention to preparedness. Operating a coastal property requires proactive planning to minimize damage and ensure a swift recovery if a storm strikes our community.
Here is what you need to know and do to prepare your property and family for the upcoming hurricane season.
Understand the LBTS Master Association Post-Storm Plan
In the wake of a major storm, clearing debris and restoring access is the critical first step toward recovery. To facilitate this, the Litchfield by the Sea Master Association maintains a standing agreement with our Landscape Vendor that acts as our primary disaster recovery partner.
Immediately following a cleared storm event, this vendor is contracted to clear all main LBTS roadways and common areas. By rapidly removing downed trees and heavy debris from the primary thoroughfares, this agreement ensures that emergency vehicles, utility crews, and sub-association damage assessment teams can safely enter the property. This centralized effort lays the groundwork for individual sub-associations and owners to safely begin their own specific property recovery operations.
Essential Pre-Season Steps for Owners
While the Master Association manages the community’s overarching infrastructure, individual preparedness rests with owners. Take these steps before June 1:
- Review Insurance Policies: Ensure your wind, hail, and flood insurance policies are active and provide adequate coverage. Keep digital copies of these documents in a secure, cloud-based folder.
- Update Contact Information: Verify that both the Master Association and your specific sub-association have your current phone number, email, and emergency contact details.
- Formulate an Evacuation Plan: Know your evacuation route along the Grand Strand. Identify where you will go, how you will get there, and what you will do with pets if Georgetown County issues a mandatory evacuation order.
- Build an Emergency Kit: Stock a minimum of three days’ worth of non-perishable food, water (one gallon per person per day), medications, flashlights, batteries, and first-aid supplies.
Securing Your Property
High winds and flying debris cause the majority of structural damage during a hurricane. Protect your investment with these physical preparations:
- Clear Balconies and Patios: If a storm approaches, bring all outdoor furniture, planters, grills, and decorative items indoors. Unsecured items become dangerous projectiles in high winds.
- Inspect Shutters and Seals: If your property features storm shutters, test them to ensure they operate smoothly. Check the caulking and weatherstripping around windows and doors to prevent wind-driven rain from entering.
- Coordinate with Property Managers: If you are a non-resident owner or rent your unit out, coordinate early with your local property management company. Confirm who is responsible for securing the interior and exterior of the unit prior to a storm’s arrival.
By taking these proactive measures and understanding the community’s logistical recovery framework, Litchfield by the Sea owners can face the upcoming hurricane season with confidence and resilience.
Sincerely,
Alan Dubroff, COO
Maintenance News & Project Updates:
Each day, your LBTS Management Team coordinates and performs many small & large repairs across both campuses. However, when larger projects may impact owners/guests, we will provide details regarding those projects so you can plan accordingly. Thank you for your understanding and patience as we work to maintain and improve your community.
Litchfield-By-The-Sea
- Beach Club Internal Improvements
Maintenance crew is currently working on completing framing and trim work inside the beach club to accommodate the new kitchen pull down installation. This work is being completed to improve functionality and provide a more updated and efficient set up within the facility. As of right now, we are still working on the shade to be installed. As well as installing new locks on the cabinet’s doors in the kitchen. - Fountain Maintenance
The fountains located opposite the beach club have been fully cleaned, serviced and are now back up and running. Routine fountain maintenance is important to maintain water quality and preserve equipment. Still in process cleaning the fountain at the pickleball courts. - Beach Shower Station Upgrades
The temporary foot washing stations and outdoor showers have been installed. The permanent foot washing stations and outdoor showers are scheduled to be rebuilt. These upgrades were necessary to improve reliability, appearance, and overall functionality for residents and visitors returning from the beach. - Upcoming Boardwalk Project
Maintenance is scheduled to begin work on the boardwalk next week as part of the ongoing efforts to preserve and improve the structure for long- term safety and durability. To minimize disruption, the boardwalk will always remain open during the project. Work will be completed in 16-foot sections to allow continued pedestrian access while repairs are underway. - Beach Club Landscaping Lights
Maintenance is continuously working to repair and improve the Beach Club landscaping lights. Recently, the timer system and several landscaping light sections were found to be offline. At this time, two sections have been successfully repaired and restored. Maintenance is currently waiting on replacement timer component to complete repairs for the remaining section. - Osprey Lake Project New Installed Fountains
Osprey lake, fountain B is being reinstalled now. Fountain C is scheduled to be reinstalled, brand new. Fountain B was pulled out and is being reinstalled now, for maintenance.
River Club
- Depth Marker Replacement Project
We have completed replacing all pool depth indicators. These markers are essential for both safety and compliance, clearly identifying water depths (e.g., 3 ft, 4 ft, 5 ft, 9 ft) and reinforcing “No Diving” areas. The updated markers will be more visible, durable, and easier to read, enhancing swimmer awareness and reducing risks of liability. - Community Signage Enhancements
Maintenance staff continue to work on updating and improving signage throughout the community, including areas such as Tall Pines, Magnolia Run, and Emerald Green. These improvements are focused on consistency, visibility, and overall aesthetic appeal, helping with wayfinding while maintaining the community’s visual standards. - River Club Guard House Information Sign
Work is underway on a new or updated informational sign at the River Club Guard House. This sign is intended to provide clear directions, rules, and important notices to residents and guests, improving communication and overall traffic flow in the area.
Landscaping News and Updates
The following landscape maintenance update is provided by our Landscape Maintenance Partner, United Land Services, to ensure we meet the needs of the community and address any issues caused by weather, pests/bugs, accidents, etc.
LBTS Common Area Landscape Maintenance
Turf Grass Mowing and Ponds
- Completed all mowing and weed eating on both campuses this week.
- Mowing will continue daily on both properties (LBTS & River Club).
- Mowing and weed eating will continue weekly in Compass Point.
Ornamental Detailing
- Trimmed the shrubs throughout LBTS and along Retreat Beach Circle.
- Detailing around Beach Club house.
- We will be installing the remainder of the mulch tomorrow, May 30th
- We trimmed the fence that has the jasmine growing on it
- We blew all the leaves out of the berm in River Club and removed them
- We faced up the wood line in River Club in certain areas this week
- Trimmed the shrubs around Retreat Beach Circle.
Fertilization, Weed Control & Pest Services
- Weeds were sprayed throughout the entire property in LBTS.
- Weeds were sprayed throughout entire property in River Club.
- We sprayed all the weeds around the Beach Club house.
Irrigation Inspections & Maintenance
- System will be routinely inspected for operational efficiency and condition.
- Visual inspection will include controller and electronic components, spray and rotor heads and shrub risers.
- Minor adjustments for efficiency will be made during inspection.
- Repairs for malfunctioning, broken or worn-out components (heads, line breaks, controllers and electronics, pumps, etc.) will be done after client approval
On the Security Scene
Memorial Day Weekend
Thank you to all residents and guests for your attention to safety over the Memorial Day weekend. We also appreciate the proactive efforts and additional hours of our Security team. Due to these combined efforts, no traffic or safety-related incidents were reported.
Security Response and Assistance
Security officers supported Georgetown County Fire Department in responding to a vehicle fire in Somerset. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, and the cause of the fire remains undetermined.
Additionally, Security responded to two medical calls that appeared to be related to dehydration, reinforcing the importance of staying safe in the summer heat. Officers also investigated a report of a suspicious individual described as a lawn maintenance worker requesting water. Upon arrival, no individual or suspicious activity was located. Security continued to assist residents with everyday needs, including helping one resident who was locked out of her home and another who had accidentally locked his phone and car keys inside his vehicle.
Summertime Health Reminder
With warmer temperatures upon us, we have already seen an increase in heat-related medical calls. Please take the following precautions to protect yourself during the summer months:
- Stay hydrated: Drink water consistently throughout the day, even if you do not feel thirsty. Limit caffeine and alcohol intake.
- Limit sun exposure: Seek shade or remain indoors during peak heat hours, typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
- Dress appropriately: Wear lightweight, loose-fitting, light-colored clothing to help regulate body temperature.
- Take breaks and cool down: Use shaded or air-conditioned spaces and consider cool showers or damp cloths to lower body temperature.
- Pay attention to warning signs: If you experience dizziness, fatigue, or nausea, take immediate steps to cool down and rehydrate.
Wildlife Awareness
Litchfield by the Sea is home to a variety of wildlife, including snakes and alligators commonly found near lagoons and natural areas. Please keep the following guidelines in mind:
- Stay alert near water and vegetation: Wildlife may be present along lagoon edges and in tall grass.
- Maintain a safe distance: Never approach snakes or alligators. If encountered, slowly and calmly move away.
- Do not feed wildlife: Feeding alligators is dangerous, increases risk to people, and is illegal in many cases.
- Avoid high-risk activities: Do not fish, swim, or allow pets near lagoon edges where alligators may be present.
- Respect and report: Never harass wildlife. Report any aggressive or unusual behavior to Security or local authorities promptly.
Thank you for helping keep our community safe, comfortable, and enjoyable for everyone.
LBTS Social Events, Activities, & Community Outreach
06/03/2026– Tai Chi– 10:00AM at Beach Clubhouse, 790 Retreat Beach Circle, Pawleys Island
06/04/2026- Yoga– 9:30AM at Beach Clubhouse, 790 Retreat Beach Circle, Pawleys Island
06/04/2026– Chair Yoga– 11:00AM at Beach Clubhouse, 790 Retreat Beach Circle, Pawleys Island
06/09/2025– Live Music, Featuring Bil Krauss – 4:00PM at Beach Clubhouse, 790 Retreat Beach Circle, Pawleys Island.
Bil Krauss is a featured regular and entertainer at the Marsh walk. Come join the fun on June 9th!
FUN Events Happening Around Town
BrookGreen Gardens Summer Light Art by Night May 27th 6-10PM
Brookgreen Gardens hosts its popular Summer Light: Art by Night event each summer, transforming the gardens into a glowing nighttime experience with illuminated sculptures, live music, art installations, food trucks, and evening strolls through the gardens. This event will be all summer on selected Wednesdays and Saturday nights.
Location: 1931 Brookgreen Dr, Murrells Inlet, SC 295
Healing Together Community Resource & Wellness Fair June 13th 1-5PM
The Healing Together Community Resource & Wellness Fair is an upcoming family-friendly event focused on wellness, mental health awareness, and community connection in the Surfside Beach. Hosted by Daughters of Both Suns, the event will bring together local organizations, mental health professionals, community partners, and small businesses to provide valuable resources, support services, and educational information for individuals and families. Attendees can enjoy food trucks, live music, raffles, bounce houses, face painting, interactive activities, and a community marketplace designed for all ages. Admission is only a $1 donation, with proceeds helping expand access to mental health resources throughout the community. The event aims to create a welcoming atmosphere where people can connect, learn, heal, and support one another while promoting overall health and wellness.
Location: 530 Azalea Dr N, Surfside Beach,