Public Meetings - Horry County, South Carolina

The Horry County Council held its regular meeting on October 20, 2026, at 6:00 PM. The meeting featured the unanimous approval of a lengthy consent agenda, the deferral of a major development agreement, the defeat of a requested rezoning, and the referral of another zoning item back to the Planning Commission. Consent Calendar - Approved unanimously, including the third reading of Ordinance 98-2026 (rezoning a parcel in Conway to AG 2) and Ordinance 100-2026 (rezoning a parcel on Brown Swamp Road to AG 2). - Approved first readings for multiple airport lease agreements, including those with STS Line Maintenance, Direct Charter Service Inc., and Royal Farms (for a convenience store with fuel station and car wash facility). - Approved the first reading of Ordinance 102-2026, an amendment to the Multi-County Business Park Agreement to add the Wavegarden Project property and adjust revenue allocations. - Approved the first reading of Ordinance 101-2026, amending the Boating/Marine Commercial (BO1) district to allow accessory retail, restaurant, and RV/trailer storage uses. - Adopted resolutions honoring Rev. Dr. James McManus on his 96th birthday, declaring a surplus service weapon for a retiring officer, authorizing a grant application for the Veterans Treatment Court ($70,000), and authorizing the use of existing Fire Fund budget appropriations to establish three leadership positions in support of the SAFER Grant. - Approved Community Benefit Fund allocations totaling $12,000 for Longs Volunteers, Aynor High School FFA, American Legion Post 40, Conway High School Education Foundation, and Grand Strand Down Syndrome Society, along with district board appointments and the 2027 Regular Council Meeting schedule. Public Comments & Testimony - One member of the public, Kimberly Poyer, signed up to speak regarding animal neglect or cruelty. Chairman Johnny Gardner acknowledged her sign-up but moved directly to the approval of the agenda without calling her to the podium. Discussion Items - Deferral of Cole's Tract Development (Ordinances 106-2026 & 107-2026): Council Member Danny Hardee moved to defer the first reading of both the Development Agreement with Dockit Enterprises/Encore Real Estate Development and the affiliated rezoning to MRD-P for the proposed 372-home subdivision off Highway 905. Hardee stated he wanted a more thorough community meeting before proceeding. The council unanimously approved the deferral. - Proposal Defeated for Old Highway 472 (Ordinances 110-2026 & 111-2026): Council Member Hardee made a motion to adopt the Future Land Use Map amendment from Scenic & Conservation to Rural and the rezoning from LFA to SF 20 for a 1.75-acre parcel. He immediately stated he would vote no, and no other council member expressed support. The motion failed unanimously. Staff and the Planning Commission had both recommended disapproval. - Highway 707 Rezoning Sent Back to Planning Commission (Ordinance 99-2026): The council voted to reconsider this previously defeated rezoning for a 0.68-acre parcel on Highway 707. Council Member Gary Loftus made a motion to send the item back to the Planning Commission for further review. The motion passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda: Approved unanimously. - Cole's Tract (Ord 106/107): DEFERRED. Vote: Unanimous. - Old Hwy 472 (Ord 110/111): FAILED. Vote: Unanimous (against). - Hwy 707 Rezoning (Ord 99-2026): REFERRED BACK TO PLANNING COMMISSION. Vote: Unanimous. - Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned in memoriam of Patti Sue Sanders, Larry L. Carter, and other previously listed individuals.

The Horry County Council held a budget workshop on Thursday, October 15, 2026, to hear departmental enhancement requests for the 2028 budget. The meeting began with an invocation and opening remarks from Chairman and Administrator Barry Scott, who highlighted the county's rapid growth (estimated population 440,000, now the second largest county in the state) and the need to respond to increasing demands. Over 20 departments presented their staffing, equipment, and capital needs. No votes or formal decisions were taken; the workshop served as a listening session for council members. The requests will be compiled and reviewed for the fall budget retreat scheduled for November 19, 2026. Discussion Items - County Administrator Overview: Barry Scott emphasized the pressure of growth, the importance of public safety, and the need to watch state legislative changes on property taxes. He noted over $11 million already invested in behavioral services and that opioid settlement funds will taper after 2030. - Information Technology: Justin Swans requested three new full-time positions (M365 Azure Administrator, IT Project Manager, IT Service Desk Supervisor) to better utilize Microsoft 365 and improve help desk efficiency. - Assessor: Requested reclassification of a supervisor position for the new Central Coast Complex and a new customer service representative with GIS skills. Also reported on AI software procurement for reassessment. - Treasurer: Angie Jones stated she could not specify her needs in October due to public-facing demands, but requested two administrative and two revenue collector positions. She also highlighted a backlog of approximately 700 business licenses and called for process streamlining, noting that North Carolina does not require business licenses. - Registration & Elections: Sandy Wartman requested no new staff but asked for increased poll worker pay from an additional $55/$25 to $105/$65 for clerks and workers, totaling up to $38,250 per major election. Equipment also requested. - Veterans Affairs: Requested one additional staff member ($75,212) to manage a caseload that grew from 19,000 in 2015 to 39,811 active files. - Probate Court: Judge Beverly and Judge Rhodes requested three new full-time positions, reclassification of all 23 staff, merit pay, a digital recording system, and furniture. They cited 4,000 monthly phone calls and 6,200 pending cases. - Solicitor: Requested an administrative assistant ($71,928) to speed up discovery and $25,000 increase for expert fees related to an upcoming death penalty case. - Clerk of Court: Darlene Hill requested two additional staff for warrants and passport services, plus technology upgrades for all 11 courtrooms. - Sheriff: Requested three deputies for Central Coast Complex security, four field operations deputies for the Carolina Forest area, two additional security officers, an ICAC investigator, an electronic crime investigator, a bomb dog, and equipment. Vehicle costs noted at $105,000 each including upfitting. - Radio Services: Requested reclassification of a radio system specialist to manager and a new specialist, plus $85,000 for a service monitor replacement. - Detention: Marcus Rowe requested four corporals, four booking officers, one court officer, and moving a peer support specialist from grant to county funding. Also furniture updates. - 911 Communications: Requested three positions (technology specialist, training specialist, frontline personnel) to prepare for future capacity and resilience. - Fire Rescue: Chief Tanner requested multiple positions including an EMS QA officer, quick response vehicles, peer support coordinator, battalion chiefs, firefighters, wildfire technician, and equipment. Noted growing call volume. - Police: Requested 48 sworn positions, seven non-sworn, and 13 reclassifications, focusing on investigations, patrol, and support. - Animal Care Center: Chief Wyatt requested 21 positions including a veterinarian, rescue coordinators, and kennel attendants to address 300% capacity. - Public Works: Requested an HEO2 position, deputy director, and equipment. - Planning & Zoning: Requested three positions (zoning technician, principal planner, zoning inspector) and an incentive program for professional certifications. - Parks and Recreation: Requested staff for new facilities, reclassification, and capital projects including pickleball courts, synthetic turf, and trails. - Stormwater: Requested two positions and equipment including a forklift and mosquito control building. - Fleet: Requested nine positions and $388,550 in capital equipment to support nearly 2,000 county assets. - Building Maintenance: Requested a crew chief custodian, safety/training coordinator, generator, and scissor lift. - Airports: The airport director requested no new positions but presented capital projects (checkpoint expansion, runway rehabilitation). Airport police requested two additional officers due to increased airline service. - Capital Improvement Requests: IT requested $2 million for ERP software, $800,000 for Council Chambers AV system, increases for server/switches, and ServiceNow implementation. Museum requested storage building. Solicitor requested $150,000 for parking lot paving from state funds. Detention requested a medication-assisted treatment program ($500,000). 911 requested equipment for backup capacity and a fund increase. Fire rescue requested apparatus storage, fire boat, and equipment. Engineering requested a bucket truck ($300,000). Public Works requested several projects including walkway, paving, building, wash bay, and winter equipment. Parks requested pickleball courts, synthetic turf, and trails. Stormwater requested mosquito control building and oyster reef restoration. Key Outcomes - No formal votes were taken; the workshop was solely for council to hear department requests. - Finance staff reported total enhancement requests of $43.5 million, with $25 million recurring and 235 positions requested. - Council members emphasized prioritizing public safety, fiscal responsibility, and gradual tax increases (1 to 1.5 mils per year) rather than large hikes. - Chairman noted a goal of reducing red tape and streamlining business processes. - The next step is the fall budget retreat on November 19, 2026, where staff will present a balanced budget and recommendations.

The Horry County Public Safety Committee convened on October 13, 2026, at 16:00 UTC to take public comment on animal welfare, approve routine consent items, and receive presentations on ALPR transparency, gang/fugitive enforcement, fire-rescue staffing and accreditation, and homeless services. No written minutes were available; this summary is based on the raw transcript. Consent Calendar - The committee approved the minutes of the August Level 2 meeting. - Approved a resolution declaring a service weapon surplus for retiring Sergeant Kathy Thompson, who served with the department for more than 25 years. - Approved a $70,000 grant for the veterans treatment court to hire a case manager, at no cost to the county and with no county obligation to continue the position after the grant ends. - Approved use of existing FY27 fire fund appropriations to add three leadership positions—two fire lieutenants and one fire captain—for Gore Town Fire Station under the SAFER grant. The request is $231,490 and does not change the budget. - Approved community grants: $1,500 from District 9 for community volunteers providing supplies to the elderly, sick, and children; $1,500 from District 11 for Aynor High School FFA travel to the National Convention; $4,000 combined from Districts 4, 6, 8 and the Chairman for American Legion Post 40, including support for Palmetto Boys/Girls State, exterior maintenance, and Normore House’s homeless-veterans mission; $2,500 from District 7 for Conway High School Education Foundation teacher grants; and $2,500 from District 7 for the Grand Strand Down Syndrome Society to support family engagement, educational outreach, and essential resources. - Consent items were approved by voice vote; no roll-call tally was recorded. Public Comments & Testimony - Carol Wallower, an animal advocate, said Horry County should take comprehensive action on animal overpopulation. She stated that approved animal welfare ordinances from 2020–2021 still contain conflicting temperature requirements in Sections 431C and 431D 2D; both were supposed to be 85 degrees. She proposed changing Section 431C to a maximum of 80 degrees, the other section given as 431B in the transcript to 50 degrees, and Section 4.13 on animals left in vehicles from 70 to 50 degrees. She advocated a temporary breeding moratorium or restriction of 3–5 years, higher fees for licensed breeders, a one-litter-per-year-per-location limit, stronger penalties for backyard breeding, and directing revenue to animal control, spay/neuter programs, education, outreach, and additional officers. She also asked the county to revisit the mobile vet clinic and consider a secondary vet to support countywide spay/neuter efforts. She said the county cannot adopt or build its way out of the crisis and needs prevention-focused solutions. - Donna Kidd, a Green Sea resident and animal advocate, said Horry County faces an animal overpopulation crisis and proposed starting with pet licensing and data collection. She cited 3.2% annual county population growth, the ability of feral dogs and cats to produce up to 20 puppies or kittens a year, an estimated 140,000 feral cats in Horry County, the “vacuum effect” that draws new animals into unsterilized areas, and a September 2026 Conway rabies case involving one feral cat that potentially affected two adults, two cats, one dog, and 40 other colony cats. She said Horry County Animal Care Center, Grand Strand Humane Society, and North Myrtle Beach Humane Society are at least 200% over capacity, with Horry County Animal Care Center over 300%. She proposed a $15 license fee for spayed/neutered pets, equal to $1.25 per month, a $25 fee for unaltered pets, late fees, and a current rabies vaccination requirement. Using 211,868 housing units and a 1.6 animals-per-household state average, she estimated more than $5 million in annual revenue. She also suggested using police animal-related calls—872 in January 2026—to begin building a pet data inventory and using the revenue for free rabies clinics, mobile veterinary care, and low-cost or free spay/neuter services. She provided copies of her figures to the committee. Discussion Items - Flock ALPR transparency portal: Staff presented a planned online portal showing how the county uses Flock automatic license plate reader cameras. It would include the number of cameras, data retention policies, activity counts, search counts, hot-list hits for stolen or warrant vehicles, access policies, and a myth-versus-fact Q&A. The stated goal is public transparency, accountability, and community trust while protecting active investigations and sensitive operational details. Committee members voiced support, with one noting SCDOT has used highway cameras for years and public expectation of privacy is limited; another called ALPRs a necessary and excellent law-enforcement tool. - Gang/Fugitive Apprehension Unit update: Since January of this year, the unit made 95 arrests, including 22 fugitive arrests; 19 of those arrested are identified so far as gang-related, with review continuing. Of the 95, 81 were county offenders who lived in Horry County and committed crimes there, while the remainder came from other locations and involved assistance to other agencies. Committee members thanked the unit for a recent large roundup and noted the media coverage of the number of partner agencies involved. - Horry County Fire Rescue CAS accreditation: HCFR announced it has become nationally accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Ambulance Services, referred to as CAS in the transcript, after a two-and-a-half-year project. Of approximately 23,000 licensed EMS agencies in the U.S., fewer than 200 have earned this accreditation—less than 1%. Chief Gilden added that HCFR was evaluated against about 148 competencies and found zero discrepancies. - HCFR overtime and staffing overview: The department outlined minimum daily staffing of 21 engines, 5 ladders, 2 rescues, 1 hazmat unit, 30 ambulances, 2 QRVs, 4 battalion chiefs, 2 medical officers, and 2 safety officers. It attributed overtime to three-person staffing standards, vacancies, military leave, FMLA, sick and annual leave, recruit school, and special events. HCFR ran well over 10,000–11,000 fire calls last year and averages 13–16 structure fires per week. There were 105 personnel unavailable for staffing, including 36 operational vacancies and 57 in recruit school; the department has a 10% vacancy rate. It reported more than 260 special events in FY26, an increase of more than 100 over the prior year, and said special-event costs exceed revenue. Plans include adjusting the special events fee structure to recover costs, recruiting more certified personnel, reducing the recruit academy by 3–4 weeks, creating acting company officer positions, and using overtime funding to hire additional coverage personnel. A class of 57 is scheduled to graduate November 12, adding about 8 people per day to field staffing; 15 recruits start October 19, 10 with Firefighter I/EMT credentials and 5 EMT-only. - New Directions of Horry County: Executive Director William Hauser said the organization is at 88% capacity across men’s, women’s, and family shelters, and also runs an overnight emergency men’s shelter. He emphasized the organization’s broader housing-specialization services, including case management, counseling, mental health treatment, substance use treatment funding, and transportation. In the first quarter of this fiscal year it spent $25,000 to transport individuals back to family or support systems. He said providers such as Normore House coordinate closely to serve homeless individuals and veterans. Key Outcomes - Approved all consent and approval items by voice vote. - HCFR will return to the next public safety meeting with a special events fee structure proposal intended to recover costs or break even. - The committee took no formal action on the Flock portal, gang/fugitive update, or New Directions presentation; these were informational. - No executive session was held. The next meeting is scheduled for November 10, 2026, on a one-month interval.

The Infrastructure & Regulation Committee of Horry County, South Carolina, met on October 13, 2026, in Multipurpose Room B/C of the Horry County Government & Justice Center. Chairman Al Allen presided. The committee approved routine agenda items, heard public testimony urging stricter mining regulations, discussed mining regulation and the Highway 319 Rural Heritage Area Plan, received a Citizen Planning Academy update, adopted a resolution honoring Reverend Dr. James “Jim” McManus, and approved three airport lease ordinances. After an executive session, the committee adjourned. Consent Calendar and Routine Approvals - No formal consent calendar was used. The committee approved the agenda and approved the August 11, 2026, meeting minutes. Public Comments & Testimony - Sarah Rich, a Conway resident and representative of the Coastal Conservation League, spoke in favor of adopting a mining ordinance. (The raw transcript also renders her name as “Sarah Ridge.”) Rich said the League was pleased mining regulation was on the agenda and suggested Horry County follow models used in Florence and Beaufort counties. She listed resident concerns including noise and light pollution, disrupted sleep and resulting school/work performance, hydrological changes to wells and streams, asphalt road damage, ground vibrations, dust-related chronic pulmonary conditions, falling home values, flying debris and shifting rock, children unable to play outside safely, drowning risks in water-filled pits, and sinkholes. Rich cited Florence County requirements such as truck access via major arterial roads, 1,000–2,000 foot buffers from residential property lines, six-foot security fencing, operating hours from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, a 65-decibel noise limit measured at the property line, penalties, and annual renewal of zoning compliance. She noted Beaufort County requires forested buffers and approved end-use/reclamation plans. She submitted written comments with links to the ordinances and recent Sun News reporting. Discussion Items Regulation of Mining - Desiree Jackson reviewed Horry County’s regulatory history: mining was a permitted use before 2000; a special exception from the zoning board of appeals was required beginning in 2000; council approval via a one-reading resolution was required from 2005; agricultural districts IAG1 and AG2 were added in 2017; a once-per-year application limit was added in 2018; and most county mining regulations were removed in 2020. Under current rules, state or federally permitted mines are exempt from county mining standards and are allowed in all zoning districts. - County attorney Jordan explained that after the council denied a mine permit near 905 and Red Bluff in 2019, the applicant sued in federal court and the county lost; requiring a county permit was found to be unlawful because the state has exclusive authority to permit mines. He said possible regulatory approaches include a special exception, a zoning district, or a floating zone requiring case-by-case approval. - Committee members discussed the need for mined fill for road and construction growth, the risk of lawsuits, and the desire to protect existing homes. A member noted a proposed mine came within roughly 37 feet of a resident’s property line despite a 25-foot planted buffer and six-foot berm. Another member said the county should not regulate mines out of existence because road construction depends on fill. - The committee directed staff to study regulatory options, including floating-zone standards with buffers that may be larger adjacent to existing residences, and to return with an update at the next I&R meeting. Highway 319 Rural Heritage Area Plan - Rajiv Myana explained that the Highway 319 Rural Heritage Area Plan was adopted in 2011 as part of the county comprehensive plan and amended in 2022 near the rural civic center area. It generally covers the highway corridor with about a 1.5-mile buffer on either side. - Chairman Allen asked the committee to review the plan because it is aging and has allowed what he called loopholes, including strip residential development adjacent to the highway. He said the intended rural character is being undermined, commercial development is restricted except for small areas near certain interchanges, and the rural civic center may need supporting businesses that the plan currently prevents. He also cited driveway access and safety concerns on Highway 319, where the highway has become a commonly used shortcut. - Staff noted that a full plan review and amendment would be a Planning Commission-led process involving updated analysis and public input, estimated at 8 to 12 months. Committee members asked Chairman Allen to work with staff to define specific changes and bring a more pointed request back to the committee. Horry County Citizen Planning Academy - Rajiv Myana reported the fourth Citizen Planning Academy began July 1, 2026. Approximately 150 people applied, and 30 were selected for the session. Participants attended sessions presented by Infrastructure & Regulation department heads, observed the Planning Commission and Zoning Board of Appeals, and were completing an assignment to help them educate neighbors and serve as planning advocates. A short participant testimonial video was shown. No action was taken. Resolutions - By unanimous voice vote, the committee adopted a resolution honoring Reverend Dr. James “Jim” McManus on his 96th birthday and his lifelong dedication to community service in Horry County. Ordinances - The committee approved three airport lease ordinances in one motion: - STS Line Maintenance: lease of 191 square feet of terminal office space at Myrtle Beach International Airport for $10,917 annually, set by the airport’s published rates and charges; month-to-month, contingent on STS having an agreement with existing air carriers. - Direct Charter Service Inc.: lease of a modular building on the general aviation side, originally acquired from LIFT Academy, for about two to three years; month-to-month after that with 120-day notice; annual rent $18,593, CPI-adjusted annually; tenant handles non-structural maintenance. - Royal Farms (Two Farms Inc.): lease of approximately 3.19 acres at Harrelson Boulevard and Highway 15 for a community store, fuel station, and car wash. Royal Farms was the only respondent to the airport’s solicitation. The term is three years with two five-year renewal options. Staff initially stated the annual rent would be $205,000 for years one through five; when asked to repeat the annual amount, the response was transcribed as “$25,000 per year.” The source transcript is internally inconsistent on the rent amount. The lease provides for a 10% increase every five years beginning in year 11 and periodic reappraisals to maintain rent at or above fair market value as required by the FAA. Executive Session - The committee voted to enter executive session for legal advice regarding pending litigation. After returning, Mr. Turner announced that no votes were taken during the executive session. Key Outcomes - Approved the agenda and the August 11, 2026, minutes. - Directed staff to return with mining regulatory options and an update at the next Infrastructure & Regulation Committee meeting, scheduled for December 1, 2026. - Asked Chairman Allen and staff to develop a more specific Highway 319 Rural Heritage Area Plan review and amendment request. - Approved the resolution honoring Reverend Dr. James “Jim” McManus. - Approved all three airport lease ordinances. - Held an executive session on pending litigation; no votes were taken; the meeting was then adjourned.

The Horry County Council met on October 6, 2026 at 6:00 PM in Council Chambers. The meeting included public comment, approval of a consent agenda with several amendments, recognition of employees, and second readings of three zoning ordinances. Council unanimously approved two ordinances and unanimously rejected a third after extensive public testimony. Consent Calendar - All items on the consent agenda were approved as amended, including: - Third reading of Ordinance 83-2026 adding the “Industrial Corridors” Future Land Use designation to the Imagine 2040 Comprehensive Plan. - Resolution R-119-2026 approving the Waccamaw Regional Transit Authority's FY2027 budget. - Resolutions accepting road dedications for Garden Grove Ph. 1, Harper Meadows Ph. 1, King Farm Subdivision, and Ranch Haven Subdivision. - Resolution R-124-2026 to apply for S.C. Opioid Recovery Fund Board funds and appropriate $1,907,812.39 for opioid remediation programs. - Resolution R-125-2026 designating $100,000 for the Horry County Community Land Trust. - Resolution R-126-2026 authorizing a grant application for the Conway Swing Bridge rail rehabilitation and a local match of up to $290,000. - Resolution R-127-2026 designating $1,000,000 for the Salem, Wilderness, and Longwood Sidewalks Project. - Eleven Community Benefit Fund allocations totaling $75,200 for various local organizations. - At-Large Board Appointment: Joe C. Chestnut to the Historic Preservation Commission. - Amendments to the consent agenda: Councilmember Allen added $1,000 to item 33 (Boys & Girls Club), and Councilmember Dukes added $1,000 to the same item. These were approved by acclamation. Public Comments & Testimony - Donna Kidd (District 10, Green Sea) spoke on animal overpopulation. She proposed a countywide pet registration system at $15 per pet annually, which she estimated could generate over $5 million in revenue to fund spay/neuter programs and enforce rabies vaccination codes. She also highlighted the shortage of animal control officers and the burden on senior citizens who are often asked to capture animals themselves. - Elizabeth Bowens (resident at 8747 Hwy 707) opposed the rezoning request for PIN 45703020027 (Ordinance 99-2026). She expressed concern about a potential business shining lights into her home and questioned the size of the lot (0.68 acres), arguing it was too small to accommodate a business while meeting setback requirements. - Willie Finley (applicant for Ordinance 99-2026) spoke in favor, noting the property is on busy Hwy 707 where residential development is impractical, and that the rezoning to RE-3 would allow a commercial use that must comply with all zoning standards, preventing a disruptive business. He acknowledged purchasing the property as a real estate investment without a contingency for rezoning. Discussion Items - Public Input on Animal Overpopulation: Donna Kidd’s proposal sparked no immediate council action but was noted. - Recognition of Long Serving Employees: Captain Sharon Myers was recognized for 40 years of service with the Horry County Detention Center, and Barry Spivey was acknowledged for 15 years of service. Both received standing ovations. - Ordinance 99-2026 (Willie Finley rezoning): This item sparked the most debate. Councilmember Loftus, the district representative, indicated he would vote no. The Burgess Community Association submitted a letter of opposition. Councilmember Servant argued that buyers should have a contingency clause for rezoning to protect themselves. Councilmember Hardee recommended the applicant come back with a specific business and a contract contingent on rezoning. Councilmember Anderson emphasized protecting historical neighborhoods and the rights of long-time residents. The motion to approve failed on a unanimous voice vote (0 ayes, all nays). - Resolution R-128-2026 (Fire Apparatus Fund transfer): Councilmember Crawford moved to amend the resolution to reflect the red-line version (corrected principal amount of $160,000 instead of $233,780.83 and total transfer of $233,780.83 instead of $307,489.66). The amendment passed unanimously, and the main motion as amended passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda Approved as Amended (unanimous voice vote). - Ordinance 98-2026 (Johnson rezoning): Approved unanimously on second reading (public hearing held). The ordinance rezones PIN 32706020011 from MSF-10 to AG-2 for a home office and chickens. - Ordinance 99-2026 (Finley rezoning): Failed unanimously (0-11). The request to rezone PIN 45703020027 from MSF-10 to RE-3 for a future commercial use was defeated. - Ordinance 100-2026 (Richardson Family Investments rezoning): Approved unanimously on second reading. The ordinance rezones a 1.32-acre portion of PIN 29014030001 from MA-2 and FA to AG-2 to allow subdivision for residential use. - Resolution R-128-2026: Approved as amended, authorizing a $233,780.83 transfer within the Fire Apparatus Fund for debt service on fire apparatus lease DL014. - Memorial Dedications: Council recognized and closed the meeting in memory of several deceased individuals: Tritt DeWitt, John Lewis Walters, Todd Bryce Chestnut II, Jerry M. Graves, Theresa La DeWitt, James Calvin Washington, John D. Cartret, Henry Bill Stanley, Paula Huggins, Robert Junior Hopkins, Johnny McKay, Billy Joe Brown, Kenneth Johnson, Moselle Taylor, Donald Race Sr., and Nancy Wilhelm. - Next Meeting: Regular Council Meeting scheduled for October 20, 2026 at 6:00 PM.

The Transportation Committee met on September 22, 2026, at 3:00 PM to discuss transportation infrastructure updates, approve budgets, accept roads into the county maintenance system, and amend a zoning ordinance for boating/marine commercial districts. No public input was received. All votes were unanimous. Consent Calendar - Approval of the agenda and the minutes from the May 26, 2026 meeting. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public signed up to speak. Discussion Items - RIDE Program Update (John Kristensen): Provided a comprehensive update on RIDE III and IV projects. Under RIDE III, dirt road pavings are underway (Bonnie Bay, Booth, Harrelson, New Dawn, Turner roads under construction; Minick and Watts roads upcoming). The 501 realignment and mainline widening projects have resumed after summer lane restrictions were lifted; signalization work is progressing with completion expected in spring 2027. The Highway 17 Business intersections project in Garden City began construction with utility relocations; completion targeted for mid-2029. The Forest Brook Road early clearing package is nearly complete. Upcoming RIDE III projects include the Conway Perimeter Road and Carolina Bay's North Extension (alternate 10 functional design received). For RIDE IV, the Garden City Streetscapes project received a notice to proceed on September 8, 2026, and construction has started. The Kings Highway improvements designer (AECOM) has been selected. The Sand Ridge Road contract with Kimley Horn is under review. The Augusta Plantation/Revolutionary War Way project is expected to bid early 2027. A new Southern Extension (extending SC 31 from 707 to US 17) via Pine Ridge Development Group was presented; discussion included potential property condemnation needs. Committee members inquired about the completion of the Main Street widening and roundabout maintenance responsibilities, noting that the city may mow within DOT right-of-way due to infrequent state mowing. - Coast RTA Facility Project Update (Brian Piascik): Presented the new transit facility on Grissom Parkway, which has been annexed into the city. The 15% design is complete, including a maintenance facility, administration building, 12-bay transit center, and a new city fire station. A construction manager is on board, but initial cost estimates exceeded the budget, requiring value engineering. Opening target for the transit center is April 2029, with the maintenance facility shortly after. - Coast RTA FY27 Budget (Brian Piascik): Presented the proposed budget with an 11% increase, primarily due to a 40% rise in fuel costs (from $880,000 to $1.2 million). The authority has had a clean audit for nine consecutive years. Wage increases are planned at 4–5% to remain competitive. A fare increase is being considered (first in 12 years) to improve fare box revenue, possibly using distance-based or monthly cap systems. The capital program includes $1.7 million for long-lead items for the new facility. Committee members asked about the size of the administrative building relative to total employees (13 total staff) and about bus stop shelter plans; the response noted only 5 of 420 stops meet ADA requirements, so sidewalk improvements are needed. Key Outcomes - Resolution approving the Waccamaw Regional Transit Authority FY2027 Budget: Passed unanimously. Authorizes the County Administrator to release payments for FY2027. - Resolution accepting roads into the Horry County Maintenance System: Passed unanimously. Accepted roads from Garden Grove Phase 1, Harper Meadows Phase 1, King Farm Subdivision, and Ranch Haven Subdivision (approximately 2 miles total). During discussion, Public Works Director Andy Markunas noted that the county accepts 15–20 miles of new subdivision roads per year on average. Committee members expressed concern about long-term maintenance funding; the director confirmed the resurfacing program is in good financial health, with reserves of $10–20 million and an average annual spend of $10 million on resurfacing. The RIDE program also contributes resurfacing (about 10 miles per year from RIDE III, and 400 miles over 25 years from RIDE IV). - Ordinance amending Articles II & IX of the Zoning Ordinance (BO1 – Boating/Marine Commercial District): Passed as amended. The original amendment allows accessory retail and restaurant uses (limited to 2,000 square feet) on the same site as a permitted principal use, with the accessory structure not located forward of the principal use. A committee member successfully moved to amend the ordinance to also include campers and utility trailers. The final ordinance passed unanimously. - Next meeting scheduled for November 10, 2026.

The Horry County Administration Committee met on September 22, 2026, at 2:00 PM to hear updates from the Council on Aging, review EMS write-offs, receive a financial update for July–August 2026, and act on nine resolutions and community benefit fund requests. All action items were approved unanimously. Council on Aging Update - Elaine Gore reported that 25.75% of Horry County’s population is over 65. Key statistics: 48,453 congregate meals served, 79,794 transportation miles to centers, 40,000 home-delivered meals, 3,200 home acre units, and 17,000 medical transportation miles. The Conway Senior Center relocated to 2213 North Main Street; a new Wamp Senior Center (former fire station) is in permitting with two additional restrooms. Gore thanked the county for its support. EMS Write-Offs - Jamie Norman presented a write-off of $5,834,287 for EMS accounts more than three years old (on or before June 30, 2023). Collection efforts continue through an outside vendor. Councilmember Mascarelli asked if further recovery options exist; Norman stated current efforts are exhausted. Financial Update – July/August 2026 - Jamie Norman reported across all funds: revenues of $23 million (68% in the general fund) and expenditures of $57.6 million (81% in general fund). General fund revenues were $15.7 million (5% of annual budget), expenditures $46.9 million (16% of budget). Vehicle taxes, building permits, ROD fees, and interest income performed better than expected. Property tax collections are expected in December–January. Special revenue funds (fire, road maintenance, beach renourishment, stormwater, recreation, waste management) are all performing as expected. GFOA Financial Reporting Award - Shannon Todd announced that Horry County received the GFOA Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting for the 39th consecutive year. She credited the finance team, grants team, and airport finance department. Key Outcomes (Action Items) - Opioid Recovery Fund Application (A): Approved resolution to apply for $1,907,812.39 from the SC Opioid Recovery Fund for first-half 2027 programs, including fire rescue harm reduction, crisis intervention team, treatment court expansion, next steps program, and coroner’s office initiatives. (Unanimous) - Community Land Trust Funding (B): Approved transfer of $100,000 from interest earnings to the Horry County Community Land Trust for affordable housing. The trust recently acquired 304 Third Avenue North in Myrtle Beach for 16 condo units (up to 120% AMI). (Unanimous) - Rail Rehabilitation Grant (C): Approved grant application to the U.S. EDA Disaster Supplemental program for RJ Corman’s Conway Swing Bridge repairs ($2.9 million project). County match of $290,000 to be split with RJ Corman, using prior contingency funds. (Unanimous) - Sidewalks Project Funding (D): Approved designating $1 million in local funds (originally ARPA set-aside) for the Salem, Wilderness, and Longwood Sidewalks project to cover cost overruns beyond the $4 million state appropriation. (Unanimous) - Fire Apparatus Lease Payment (E): Approved transfer of $307,489.66 within the Fire Apparatus Fund to pay principal and interest on lease DL014. (Unanimous) - Multi-County Business Park Amendments (F & G): Approved (title only) a resolution and ordinance to amend the 2000 business park agreement to add property for the Wavegarden project and remove owner-occupied residences. Items will go to full council for first reading. (Unanimous) - Community Benefit Fund Requests (H): Approved $80,100 in total for 12 organizations: Loris Library ($2,500), Socastee High School Tennis ($6,000), Journey Church Rock the Block ($7,000), North Myrtle Beach Women’s Club ($2,900), Loris High School Football Parents ($5,000), South Paw Rescue ($4,500), Love for Paws Rescue ($1,000), Spokes of Hope ($7,500), Daisy Elementary Running Club ($2,500), Conway High School ($16,700), and Boys & Girls Club of Grand Strand ($24,000). (Unanimous) Other Business - Approved the July 21, 2026, meeting minutes. No public input, old business, or executive session. Next meeting is scheduled for December 1, 2026.

The Horry County Council held its regular meeting on September 15, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. in Council Chambers. The meeting included public input on animal welfare, highway extensions, and data centers; approval of a consent agenda; presentations recognizing 30-year service and proclaiming Suicide Prevention Awareness Month; public hearings on comprehensive plan amendments and zoning changes; and final votes on ordinances including a joint industrial park with Georgetown County. Public Comments & Testimony - Suzanne Roman, representing Friends of Carolina Animals, urged continued support for spay/neuter efforts, noting they have transported over 1,000 animals to the Northeast and altered over 110 county animals. She proposed a council-formed committee to gather data and increase capacity. - Donald DeWiz, representing residents of The Farm at Timberlake, expressed opposition to the SC 22 extension through their neighborhood, citing decreased property values, forced displacement, and lack of disclosure during home purchases. He gathered 350 signatures from residents. - George Blumenthal, a Little River resident, spoke against data centers, warning of 268% electricity rate increases in Georgia, water demands from Grand Strand Water & Sewer, and environmental concerns. He asked council to be alert to legislation (SB 902) that might subsidize data centers. - Renee Ruff (Wild Wing Plantation) questioned the Industrial Corridors plan regarding water/sewer capacity, traffic impact studies, buffer zones, and cumulative impacts. - Robin Doyle (Wild Wing Plantation) asked for public access to GIS suitability scores, criteria for corridor inclusion, and consistency with comprehensive plan. - Liz Matcharowski (Wild Wing) raised concerns about wetland protections, buffer zones, and conflicts with agricultural preservation in the Industrial Corridors plan. Consent Calendar - The council approved the consent agenda (amended by moving Ordinance 82-2026 to later in the meeting) with a unanimous vote. The consent agenda included: - Third Readings: Ordinance 84-2026 (Civil Air Patrol lease modification), Ordinance 85-2026 (Superior Aircraft Services lease), Ordinance 88-2026 (development agreement for Sandridge Tract), Ordinance 89-2026 (rezoning 22.63 acres to RE 4), and 10 rezoning ordinances (86-2026 through 97-2026). - First Readings: Ordinance 98-2026 (rezoning to AG 2) and Ordinance 100-2026 (rezoning part of PIN 29014030001 to AG 2). - Resolution R-118-2026 (transfer of $1,000,000 from Fire CIP Contingency to Fire Fund). - Minutes of the September 1, 2026 regular meeting were approved unanimously. Presentations & Resolutions - Recognition of Sheriff's Deputy Jamie DeBerry for 30 years of service with Horry County Government. - Resolution R-117-2026 proclaiming September as Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. Chief Leonhardt noted that approximately 70 Horry County residents died by suicide in 2025 and highlighted the crisis intervention team. The resolution passed unanimously. Discussion Items - Ordinance 83-2026 (Second Reading & Public Hearing): Amendment to Chapter 12 of the Comprehensive Plan (Imagine 2040) to add the “Industrial Corridors” Future Land Use Designation. Several public speakers raised concerns about infrastructure, traffic, buffers, and cumulative impacts. Council noted extensive public engagement (multiple meetings, revisions). The ordinance passed unanimously on second reading. - Ordinance 99-2026 (First Reading): Rezoning PIN 45703020027 from MSF 10 to RE 3 (Convenience and Auto-Related Services) for a flooring business. Staff recommended disapproval due to inconsistency with the Burgess Community Overlay, but council voted to approve unanimously after hearing staff explanation. - Ordinance 82-2026 (Third Reading): Joint industrial and business park agreement with Georgetown County (Hwy 31 Extension Area). Council approved an amendment to add several parcels (PINs 4470000020, 4470000015, 4470000014, 4470000016, 4470000017) to the park agreement. The amended ordinance passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - All motions and ordinances passed unanimously. - The council approved the consent agenda, minutes, resolutions, and the three ordinances brought to a vote (83-2026, 99-2026, 82-2026). - Upcoming meetings were noted: Administration Committee on September 22 at 2:00 p.m., Transportation Committee on September 22 at 3:00 p.m., and next council meeting on October 6 at 6:00 p.m. - The meeting adjourned in memory of Dr. Jimmy Floyd, Wilma Jewel Sol Suggs, Beverly Dickinson, Jess Bernie Danley, Reverend Robin King, and Jefferson M. Todd.

The Horry County Council held its regular meeting on September 1, 2026, at 11:00 AM (ET). The meeting included public input on a pedestrian safety issue and animal ordinance changes, followed by approval of several resolutions and zoning ordinances. Council members also discussed planned infrastructure improvements for Highway 90. Public Comments & Testimony - Doug Christ spoke about the need for a pedestrian bridge over Highway 544 near Coastal Carolina University, citing three pedestrian fatalities over 15 years. He noted that $12 million had been allocated ($5M federal, $5M state, $2M from the 1% sales tax) but questioned why the bridge had not been built. Council members clarified that the bridge is under state and university jurisdiction, not county authority. - Carolyn Slyn, an animal advocate, requested corrections to contradictory temperature limits in the animal ordinance (85°F vs. 90°F for tethering) and proposed a three- to five-year ban on dog breeding, fines of $2,000 for illegal litters, mandatory spay/neuter, and higher fees for licensed breeders to address overpopulation at the county shelter (300% overcapacity). - Amelia Wood and Tammy Baker spoke during public hearings on several Highway 90 rezoning ordinances. They raised concerns about traffic safety, road capacity (operating at 115% capacity per recent counts), flooding from Tully Swamp, school overcrowding (e.g., Carolina Forest at 120% capacity), and cumulative impacts of approved developments. They urged the council to deny rezonings due to inadequate infrastructure. Discussion Items - Resolution R90-2026 memorializing the passing of U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham on July 11, 2026, and recognizing his contributions to Horry County – passed unanimously. - Resolution R110-2026 designating October 4–10, 2026, as Fire Prevention Week, with Chief Tanner discussing lithium-ion battery hazards – passed unanimously. - Resolution R116-2026 recognizing September 2026 as National Preparedness Month and the South Carolina State Guard – passed unanimously. - Council member Mr. Luce Blood asked staff about infrastructure improvements on Highway 90. Staff confirmed the RIDE IV program is under design for Highway 90 from S.C. 501 to Little River, including elevated bridges over Tully Swamp and Jones Big Swamp, and widening to five lanes. The project will be phased over several years, with construction expected to start within a few years. - Council member Mr. DeSabato clarified that a rezoning for an outdoor storage facility on Highway 90 (Ordinance 97-2026) was not for housing, and that the storage units could be easily moved if the dangerous intersection is realigned. Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar approved unanimously. - Amendments: Ordinance 82-2026 (joint industrial/business park with Georgetown County) was amended via redline copy and then approved as amended. - All zoning ordinances (10th through 97th readings) passed unanimously after public hearings, including: - Third reading of Ordinance 10-2026 (adding right-of-way for Carolina Bays Parkway). - Second readings of ordinances for lease agreements with Civil Air Patrol and Superior Aircraft. - Rezonings: Myrtle Beach Z D Group, G3 Engineering (Portofino Villas), Roe Professional Services (Carolina Property Systems), John D. Johnson, Sophia Liu, GYAT LLC, Brown's Mobile Home Park, Robert Russell, ATM Property Group, Taylor Hemingway (Michael Woodard), and Founders Development. - Memorial dedications: The meeting was adjourned in memory of several individuals: Steve Gossman, Sadie Graham, Randall Wemburn, Ron Teague, Betsy Helms, Linda Owens, Cindy B. Hunt, Jackie Miles Stanley, and Kalina Cat Trent. - No executive session was held. Note: The meeting date and time are derived from the transcript opening. The agenda and minutes were unavailable.