FOCUSED | THOUGHTFUL | TRUSTWORTHY
Get to Know Phil Cromer
Phil Cromer, a native of Charleston, S.C., served on City Council from 2014 - 2022, chairing the Affordable Housing Task Force and sharing his 23 years of municipal experience. During his tenure he served as the City’s Liaison for the Beaufort History Museum and was appointed to the Lowcountry Council of Governments Board. Cromer earned a Bachelor of Arts from the University of South Carolina, a joint Masters of Public Administration from the College of Charleston and the University of South Carolina, and an Associate Degree in Risk Management - Public Sector from the Insurance Institute of America. Prior to retirement in January 2014, he spent 23 years as a risk management consultant for the Municipal Association of South Carolina. Cromer also served in the US Army and US Army reserves from 1974-2004.
Cromer is a 1987 graduate of Leadership Beaufort and a 2000 graduate of the Executive Institute of the State of South Carolina. Before being recruited by the Municipal Association of SC, he served as town manager for the Town of Port Royal, administrator for the Town of Ridgeland, and Economic and Community Development coordinator for the Lowcountry Council of Governments.
He is married to the former Amelie Sams Aimar and has two daughters, two sons-in-law, and four grandchildren.
Fellow Beaufort Citizens,
My name is Phil Cromer, and I am a candidate for Mayor of the City of
Beaufort for the December 12, 2023, Special Election.
As you are aware, the recent tumultuous series of events have created a void on City Council
with the resignation of our former mayor, Stephen Murray. With eleven months remaining
in his term, it is imperative that order and stability be maintained on Council and the
apparent discord between the City, its citizens, and organizations be resolved. It is time to
“lower the temperature” of politics in the city through positive engagement.
I have had the honor of serving two terms on City Council (2014-2022), am familiar with the
present issues facing our community, understand city government processes, and have a
strong working relationship with current members of City Council. With my earlier career in
public service, previous elected service, and deep roots in the Lowcountry, I am committed to
serving our city, its residents, and businesses to the best of my ability. Critical for Beaufort’s
success is appreciating our diverse history and culture, embracing present challenges, and
planning for the future well-being of our community.
A few concerns that I would like to address if elected are:
- timely vetting and completion of Beaufort Code changes
- improved risk management of liability exposures
- reduction of number of executive sessions
- posting qualifications and experience of all applicants for Boards and Commissions
- stand-alone public hearings on important issues of community concern
I would be honored to have your support on December 12th as well as your input on how to
address the issues important to you. I look forward to meeting and listening to you.
Sincerely,
Phil Cromer