Public Meetings - Horry County, South Carolina

The Horry County Administration Committee met on December 3, 2024, at 1:00 PM in the County Council Conference Room. Chairman Tyler Servant presided. The committee reviewed updates from the Council on Aging, affordable housing initiative, independent auditor's report, local vendor preference, and food truck policy, and took action on several resolutions and an ordinance. Consent Calendar - Approved the agenda and the minutes of the October 21, 2024 meeting unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - No public input was offered. Discussion Items - Council on Aging Update (Elaine Gore): Ms. Gore reported that from July to November 2024, the Council on Aging served 28,134 congregate meals at 11 senior centers, delivered 31,214 home-delivered meals, provided 3,990 hours of homemaker services, and completed 1,168 door-to-door medical transportation appointments. The agency is partnering with Horry County Libraries and Parks & Recreation to expand senior afternoon activities. - Affordable Housing Initiative – Community Land Trust (Beth Tranter and Meagan Michal): The housing committee, convened by MBREDC, is proceeding with establishing a county-wide Community Land Trust (CLT). A board has been identified, bylaws and a budget are under review, and a temporary management agreement with Habitat for Humanity of Horry County will launch the CLT. The CLT will preserve long-term affordability for households earning 30–120% of area median income. The committee previously allocated $250,000 for startup. - Independent Auditor Required Communications (Grant Davis, Molden Jenkins): The county received an unmodified (“clean”) audit opinion for fiscal year 2024. No material weaknesses, significant deficiencies, or instances of noncompliance were reported. The Single Audit covered two major federal programs ($10.2M Airport Improvement, $24.1M ARPA) with clean opinions. - Local Vendor Initiative Update (Tammy Stevens): Staff reviewed the current Local Vendor Preference (LVP) program, noting only 29 DBE firms in Horry County out of 1,054 statewide. Recommended updating thresholds: for IFBs $10,000–$1,000,000, local vendors within 5% of low bid can match; for $1M–$20M, within 2%. Also proposed outreach through QR codes, kiosks, and training to increase registration on BidNet. No formal action requested at this meeting; a future resolution is expected. - Food Trucks on County Property (David Jordan): Following direction from October, staff proposed a pilot program allowing up to two food trucks per day at the Government and Justice Center, with pre-licensing, insurance, and time restrictions. The committee voted to forward the recommendation to full council. - Legends Drive Loan Update (Shannon Todd): Engineering cost estimates did not exceed the authorized $2.5 million, so no amendment is needed. - Financial Update – October 2024 (Shannon Todd): Year-to-date across all funds, revenues were $79.2 million, expenditures $102.2 million. General Fund revenues were $55.3 million (20.4% of budget), expenditures $77.1 million (28.6% of budget), with most property tax revenues expected in December/January. Special revenue funds (Fire, Road Maintenance, Stormwater, Recreation, Waste Management) performed as expected. Key Outcomes - Opioid Settlement Funds Resolution: Approved application to the SC Opioid Recovery Fund Board for $900,556.28 to continue funding for two Harm Reduction Specialists (HCFR), four Crisis Intervention Team positions (HCPD), new equipment for the Coroner’s Office, and administrative costs. (Unanimous) - CDBG Housing Rehabilitation Affordability Periods: Amended to add a 5-year affordability period for assistance under $25,000, effective upon approval. (Unanimous) - Abandoned Building Certification: Certified the former bank building at 10207 N. Kings Highway as an abandoned building site under the SC Abandoned Buildings Revitalization Act. (Unanimous) - Community Benefit Fund Requests: Approved allocations totaling $43,500 to seven organizations: Blue Star Mothers Coastal Carolina ($3,000), Myrtle Beach Corvette Club ($2,000), Apple Breast Cancer Warrior Foundation ($1,500), Spokes of Hope ($3,000), Beach Ball Classic ($17,000), Welcome All EOC ($8,000), Boys & Girls Club of the Grand Strand ($9,000). (Unanimous) - Eagle Trace Special Tax District Ordinance: Passed the ordinance to create the Eagle Trace Special Tax District, authorizing up to 300 mills to fund road and drainage improvements (estimated $592,000), with a 15-year bond. The petition was certified with 75.11% of assessed value. (Unanimous; moves to full council) The meeting adjourned at approximately 2:00 PM.

The Infrastructure & Regulation Committee of Horry County Council met on Tuesday, December 3, 2024, at 9:00 AM in the Council Conference Room. Chairman Al Allen presided. The meeting included an invocation, pledge of allegiance, approval of agenda and minutes, a recognition award, discussion of several zoning and land development ordinance amendments, and committee member comments. Key actions included approval of road dedications, deferral or denial of several overlay and zoning amendments, and a proposed future study on heavy industrial siting. Consent Calendar - Approved the agenda for the meeting. - Approved the minutes from the November 6, 2024, meeting. - Approved resolutions accepting into the county maintenance system the roads and drainage of Belle Mer North Phase 2 (Hossa Street, Mikita Drive, Bickell Court) and Old Mill Estates (Royal Arch Drive, Caveson Way), each with a three-year warranty period. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public provided input. Discussion Items - Recognition of Jeff Bailey, SCRPA Award Winner: Parks and Recreation Director Ray Dunham introduced Jeff Bailey, who was awarded the 2024 Eastern District Merit Award by the South Carolina Recreation and Park Association. Bailey expressed appreciation to his staff and leadership. - Ordinance: Hwy 17 Business South Overlay Amendment (Item a): Proposed to include Hwy 17 Bypass in the overlay, exclude multifamily housing, and cap structure height at 35 feet. After discussion, the committee voted down the ordinance. Subsequently, a motion passed to prepare a resolution stating the council's intent not to rezone additional properties for multifamily housing within that corridor. - Ordinance: Hwy 544 Overlay Amendment (Item b): Proposed to remove Dick Pond Road from the overlay. Concerns were raised about narrow road conditions and potential negative impacts. The committee voted to defer the item to the next meeting for further staff review. - Ordinance: Heavy Manufacturing – General Grinding Operations (Item c): Proposed to add "general grinding operations" as a permitted use in Heavy Industrial (HI) and MA3 districts. Members requested a map of existing HI zones and consideration of conditional uses. The item was deferred to the January 2025 meeting. Councilman Tom Anderson also proposed forming a committee to study future locations for asphalt and concrete plants to address infrastructure needs. - Ordinance: Wild Game Processing (Item d): Proposed to allow wild game processing in FA, CFA, AG1, and AG2 districts, with the condition that all processing be within a fully enclosed structure. The committee approved the ordinance. - Ordinance: Highway Commercial Zoning – Wholesale & Distribution (Item e): Proposed to add wholesale and distribution as a permitted use in the Highway Commercial (HC) district. Several members expressed concern about creating broad new uses that could lead to issues on small lots or congested roads. After procedural motions, the committee effectively voted to not approve the ordinance; it will be forwarded to County Council with a negative recommendation. - Ordinance: Land Development Regulations – Regulatory Permits (Item f): Amended the requirement for wetland delineation from an Approved Jurisdictional Determination to a Preliminary Jurisdictional Determination or letter of concurrence, as requested by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The committee approved the amendment. - Ordinance: Lease of Hangar D at Conway-Horry County Airport (Item g): A proposed 5-year lease with H & H Air Service, LLC for an approximately 4,350-square-foot hangar at $5,700 annual rent (CPI-adjusted). The committee voted to defer the item, with plans for executive session discussion at a later date. - Council Member Comments: Councilman Tom Anderson inquired about water supply issues delaying veterans' homes, noting the issue appeared to be with water providers, not county building departments. Chairman Al Allen and others praised the county's public works team for their visible, effective work. Key Outcomes - Approved: Road dedications (Belle Mer North Phase 2, Old Mill Estates); Wild Game Processing ordinance; Land Development Regulations wetland delineation amendment. - Failed/Deferred: Hwy 17 Business South Overlay amendment (ordinance failed; resolution to study multifamily ban passed); Hwy 544 Overlay amendment (deferred to next meeting); Heavy Manufacturing amendment (deferred to January 2025 for map and conditional use analysis); Highway Commercial amendment (not approved, sent to council with negative recommendation); Hangar D lease (deferred for later executive session). - New Initiative: Councilman Anderson's proposal to form a committee to identify suitable future locations for asphalt and concrete plants was supported by the committee.

The Horry County Historic Preservation Commission met on November 18, 2024, at 5:30 PM. The meeting included a public hearing on a certificate of appropriateness for a restaurant addition, discussion of the Legacy Business Program, and approval of a historic marker text and location. The commission approved minutes, voted on the addition redesign, tabled the Legacy Business Program, and approved the Green Sea Historic Marker. Consent Calendar - Minutes: The minutes from October 28, 2024, were approved unanimously after a correction: the date of Jamie Tompkins' DAR presentation was changed from November 18 to December 15, 2024. (Commissioner Burroughs noted the correction; all voted aye.) Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were offered during the meeting. Discussion Items - Public Hearing – Certificate of Appropriateness for Parsons Table Restaurant (370 sq ft addition): The applicant, Sean Gallagher of ProCon Associates, presented a proposal to add a 370-square-foot bar on the right side of the existing historic building at 1390 Highway 17, Little River. The property is on the Horry County Historic Register (added 2015). Commission members (especially Ben Burroughs, Jamie Tompkins, and Bill Stray Sky) raised concerns that the proposed L-shaped addition would wrap around the front of the building, hiding the historic facade and altering the roof line. They suggested redesigning the addition to match the left side of the building, which is set back and preserves the historic character. The commission discussed potential impacts on parking and a large tree. The applicant acknowledged that a redesign would require going back to the architect. - Legacy Business Program Text Amendment: Staff presented a revised draft ordinance to broaden criteria for the Legacy Business Program, including requirements for 50-year minimum age, same-family ownership, same location, same name, and continuous operation in Horry County. The draft had been unanimously approved by the previous commission in March 2024. Commissioner Jamie Tompkins moved to table the item for further review, seconded by Ryan McCray; the motion carried unanimously. - Green Sea Historic Marker Statement: The commission reviewed and approved the text for a historic marker at Green Sea. The marker will be placed at the intersection of School Drive and Highway 9, on private property with the landowner's permission. The text references the historical Norton's Crossroads and the area's 18th-century settlement. Commissioner Ben Burroughs shared historical context about the area. The vote was unanimous. Key Outcomes - Parsons Table Addition (Motion Carried 7-0): The commission voted to require the applicant to redesign the addition to match the left side of the building, preserving the historic front facade. The motion was made by Commissioner Platt, seconded by Ryan McCray. All commissioners voted aye: Platt, Coprow, Tompkins, McCray, Millet, Burroughs, and Stray Sky. The applicant will work with the architect and resubmit. - Legacy Business Program (Tabled): The item was tabled by a motion from Jamie Tompkins, seconded by Ryan McCray, with all in favor. It will be brought back at a future meeting after further discussion with staff. - Green Sea Historic Marker (Approved Unanimously): The text and location were approved. The marker will be placed on private property at the corner of School Drive and Highway 9, with the landowner's consent. - Next Meeting: The commission will not meet in December 2024; the next meeting is scheduled for January 27, 2025.

The Horry County Council met on November 12, 2024, at 6:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers. The meeting included public input, approval of the consent agenda, presentations recognizing law enforcement and emergency communications personnel, and second reading and public hearings for several land use and lease ordinances. All votes were unanimous unless otherwise noted. Public Comments & Testimony - Stephanie Chapetta, representing the group "Horry County Residents for Responsible Building," spoke against overdevelopment. She cited strain on utilities, schools, public safety, roads, and the environment, and presented a petition with 947 signatures (hard copies and online). She requested that the County consider the cumulative impacts of rapid urbanization. Presentations & Resolutions - Recognition of Chief Deputy Tom Fox – Sheriff Thompson presented Chief Deputy Tom Fox with the 2024 Strom Thurmond Award for Excellence in Law Enforcement. Fox has 40 years of law enforcement experience, 30 with Horry County, and was praised for his work on the jail diversion program and domestic violence initiatives. - Recognition of E-911 Regional Cooperative Award – Randy Webster highlighted the Coastal ESInet project, a regional collaboration among six counties and two municipalities that allows 911 calls to be rerouted if one center goes down. The project received an honorable mention in the SC Association of Counties 2024 Barrett Lawrimore Memorial Regional Cooperative Award. - Recognition of E-911 Employees – Renee Hardwick presented awards to Michelle Johnson (Palmetto Award) and Debbie Lee (911 Contributor Award), along with an honorable mention for Center of the Year and Rookie of the Year. Consent Calendar - The consent agenda was approved as amended. It included third readings for ordinances 107-2024, 108-2024, 111-2024, 112-2024, and 120-2024; first readings for ordinances 118-2024, 137-2024, 138-2024, 139-2024, 140-2024, and 141-2024; resolutions R-127-2024 through R-134-2024; community benefit fund allocations; at-large board appointments; and the League of Cities appointment to the Solid Waste Authority Board. Discussion Items - Second Reading & Public Hearing – Ordinance 121-2024: Lease agreement with Mach Aero LLP for Hangar 1 at Grand Strand Airport. Approved. - Second Reading & Public Hearing – Ordinance 122-2024: Lease agreement with Horry County Council on Aging for the former Wampee fire station. Approved. - Second Reading & Public Hearing – Ordinance 123-2024: Amendment to Article IX, Section 919 of the zoning ordinance regarding non-commercial personal use buildings, reducing the minimum acreage from 3 acres to the minimum lot size of the zoning district. Approved. - Second Reading & Public Hearing – Ordinances 124-2024, 126-2024, 131-2024, 136-2024: Rezoning requests for parcels in Districts 10 and 9 (various agents), all approved in one motion. - Second Reading & Public Hearing – Ordinances 127-2024 and 128-2024: Future Land Use Map amendment and rezoning for PIN 30507020026 from Rural Communities to Suburban and from CFA to MSF 10. Approved. - Second Reading & Public Hearing – Ordinances 129-2024 and 130-2024: Future Land Use Map amendment and rezoning for PINs 37900000022 and 37911020011 from Rural & Rural Communities to Rural Communities, and from CFA & MRD 1 to MRD 1. Approved. - Second Reading & Public Hearing – Ordinances 132-2024 and 133-2024: Rezoning of 89.84 acres from FA to MRD-P (Wildwood subdivision) and approval of a Development Agreement with Lennar Carolinas, LLC for a fire and emergency services fee of $5,700 per unit. Council Member Dukes recused. Approved. - Second Reading & Public Hearing – Ordinances 134-2024 and 135-2024: Future Land Use Map amendment and rezoning for PINs 26700000011 and 26700000012 from Rural to Rural Communities, and from FA & SF 8.5 to MRD 1. Approved. Key Outcomes - All second reading ordinances were approved unanimously by voice vote. - The consent agenda was approved unanimously. - The agenda was amended by deleting paragraph 6 and referring paragraph 22 to the I&R Committee. - The meeting was adjourned in memory of several individuals named during memorial dedications.

The Infrastructure & Regulation Committee met on November 6, 2024, at 9:00 a.m. in the Council Conference Room. Chairman Al Allen presided. The meeting included approval of minutes, introduction of a new deputy director, discussion of roads to be removed from the maintenance system, acceptance of new subdivision roads into the county system, allocation of community benefit funds, and first readings of two ordinances. The meeting concluded with a unanimous vote to enter executive session. Consent Calendar - Approval of Agenda: The agenda was approved unanimously on a motion by Councilman Tom Anderson. - Approval of Minutes: The minutes from the October 8, 2024, meeting were approved unanimously on a motion by Councilman Bill Howard. Public Comments & Testimony - No public input was received. Discussion Items - Roads Identified for Removal from Maintenance System (Randy Plummer): Staff presented a list of roads proposed for removal from the county road maintenance system. No questions or objections were raised by committee members. The item was acknowledged and approved. Resolutions - Acceptance of Roads into County Maintenance System (David Gilreath): The committee approved the acceptance of roads and drainage from the following subdivisions into the Horry County Maintenance System: Belle Mer South Phase 2 (Selma Loop, Hickman Street, Jenkins Court; 0.84 miles), Heather Glen Phase 8B (Rutherford Court; 0.21 miles), Heather Glen Phase 14 (Longside Court; 0.26 miles), Heather Glen Phase 19 (Kings Acre Court, Nelson Road, Hollandbush Drive, New Galloway Drive; 0.61 miles), and Heather Glen Phase 21 (Brooks Drive, Elder Court, Player Court; 0.32 miles). The motion was made by Councilman Tom Anderson, seconded by Bill Howard, and passed unanimously. Councilman Johnny Gardner noted the need for long-term planning for road maintenance given the increasing number of accepted roads. - Allocation of Council Community Benefit Funds (Ashley Carroll): Four allocations were approved unanimously: - Horry County Police Department: $10,000 from council districts 1, 2, 4, 8, 9, 10, and 11 to support the annual Shop with a Cop program for disadvantaged youth. - Smore Academy: $650 from District 3 to purchase food for Thanksgiving dinners for families in need. - Grand Strand Humane Society: $600 from District 8 for medicine and supplies. - SOS Health Care: $750 from District 7 to purchase Project Lifesaver bracelets for individuals with disabilities. Ordinances (First Reading) - Conveyance of Former Luck Avenue Fire Station to Little River Chamber of Commerce (Randy Haldi): An ordinance authorizing the County Administrator to execute a deed conveying the surplus fire station property (approximately 0.34 acres on Luck Avenue in Little River) to the Little River Chamber of Commerce. The deed includes a reverter clause allowing the county to reclaim the property if it ceases to be used for public benefit, and restricts transfer to other governmental entities. The motion to approve was made by Councilman Tom Anderson, seconded by Mark Causey, and passed unanimously. - Lease Renewal with FAA for Grand Strand Airport (Ryan Betcher): An ordinance authorizing a 20-year lease renewal (October 1, 2023 – September 30, 2043) with the U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Aviation Administration for approximately 0.7 acres at Grand Strand Airport, including the air traffic control tower site and support facilities. The lease has no annual rental payment due to the beneficial service provided; the FAA will cover all operation and maintenance costs. The motion to approve was made by Bill Howard, seconded by Tom Anderson, and passed unanimously. Executive Session - A motion to enter executive session was made and seconded, and passed unanimously. The session was held for discussion of negotiations incident to proposed contractual arrangements, proposed sale or purchase of property, and receipt of legal advice covered by attorney-client privilege. Key Outcomes - All agenda items were approved unanimously. - The committee accepted five new subdivision road systems into the county maintenance system, totaling approximately 2.24 miles. - Four community benefit fund allocations were approved, totaling $12,000. - First readings were given to ordinances conveying the former Luck Avenue fire station to the Little River Chamber of Commerce and renewing the FAA lease at Grand Strand Airport. - The committee entered executive session; no further actions were reported prior to adjournment.

The Horry County Historic Preservation Commission met on Monday, October 28, 2024, at 5:30 PM local time (the instruction indicates 10:30 AM UTC; note the time discrepancy). The meeting included election of officers, approval of minutes, and discussions on several historic preservation projects and the Legacy Business Program. Consent Calendar - Minutes from the April 22, 2024, August 26, 2024, and September 23, 2024 meetings were approved as submitted. Motions carried unanimously. Discussion Items - Election of Officers: Ben Burris was nominated and unanimously elected as Chairperson. Pat was nominated and unanimously elected as Vice Chairperson. The new chair noted his full-time job may limit attendance at award ceremonies, relying on board members. - Vareen Gardens (Ray Memorial Gardens) Progress: Roger reported he will speak on the history of the area on November 9, 2024 at 9 AM. He also met with Raj and Ray regarding signs; information is being compiled. - Green Sea Marker Update: An amendment to the text regarding location distance was discussed. The current text is considered factually accurate and not a significant issue. The marker text will be presented at the next meeting for a vote before being sent to the state. - Atlantic Beach Historic District: A contract with Chronicle Heritage Company has been completed, and the state review board will consider designating Atlantic Beach as a historic district on November 15, 2024. The board encouraged attendance. The town owners association (over 60 members) has been notified. - Little Pee Dee / Hill River Area Survey: A final public meeting is scheduled for October 30, 2024 at CBR Station to receive comments on the draft survey, which has been accepted by the state. A copy of the booklet will be provided to all board members. - Legacy Business Program Update: An ordinance has been drafted to establish uniform criteria for the program. Criteria include 50 years in business and ownership requirements. The ordinance will be presented at the next meeting for a vote, then proceed to the Infrastructure Regulation Committee and Planning Commission as a text amendment to the zoning ordinance. - Number of Legacy Business Awards Per Year: The board discussed reducing the previous goal of 83 businesses per year. Suggestions included 10-12 (one per month) or two per month (24 annually). The decision will be informed by the new criteria. - Presentation of Plaques: The board discussed options: presenting plaques at the business location or at county meetings. It was decided to offer businesses the choice. Businesses selecting an on-site ceremony will coordinate a date with board members. - Future Meeting and Agenda Item: At the next meeting (November 18, 2024), a Certificate of Appropriateness (COA) for an addition at Parsons Table (a former church) will be reviewed. Board members were asked to attend in full. Key Outcomes - Officers Elected: Ben Burris (Chair), Pat (Vice Chair). - Minutes Approved: Unanimous approval for three sets of minutes. - Green Sea Marker: Postponed for final text review and vote at next meeting. - Atlantic Beach Historic District: State review board meeting scheduled November 15; board members encouraged to attend. - Little Pee Dee Survey: Final public meeting October 30; booklet to be distributed. - Legacy Business Program: Ordinance to be presented for final vote at next meeting; criteria and annual number of awards to be determined. - Plaque Presentation: Businesses will choose between on-site ceremony or county meeting presentation. - Meeting Conduct: The chair will recognize speakers; hand raising for voting and comments will be used; members are encouraged to state their names for the record.

The Horry County Administration Committee met on October 21, 2024, at 1:00 PM in the County Council Conference Room. The meeting covered financial updates, an election update, a discussion on food trucks on county property, a reassessment appeals update, and several action items including compensation for county boards, ARPA fund reallocations, grant matching funds, a fee agreement amendment with DC Blox Inc., transfer of Conway's municipal elections to the county election commission, and a tax exemption extension. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public signed up to speak. Discussion Items - Financial Update – September 2024 (Shannon Todd): Total revenues across all funds were nearly $33.8 million, with 67.25% from the general fund. General fund revenues were $22.7 million (8.4% of budget) and expenditures $59 million (22.5% of budget). Property tax revenues are expected in December-January. Special revenue funds (fire, road maintenance, beach renourishment, stormwater, recreation, waste management) are performing as expected. The committee also recognized the finance team for receiving the GFOA Excellence in Financial Reporting awards for budget, annual report, and popular annual report. - General Election Update (Sandy Martin): Over 11,000 absentee ballots have been issued, 8,600 ballots mailed, and 5,300 returned. Early voting began that day with all seven sites busy. The office has 7 full-time staff and 2 temporary full-time shared with IT. Sandy Martin was recognized for 40 years of service with the county. - Discussion of Food Trucks on County Property (David Jordan): The county has received inquiries from four food truck vendors (hot dog, donut, hamburger, Philly cheesesteak). Currently, commercial activity requires a franchise agreement. Staff will bring a recommendation to the next council meeting to create a regulatory framework, potentially limiting the number of trucks and designating specific areas. - Reassessment Appeals Update (Larry Roscoe): 5,565 total appeals were received (about 4,500 residential, 631 commercial, 300-400 HOAs). 66% have been responded to, and 41% are closed (agreement reached). On average, market values have been reduced 9% for residential and 13% for commercial, but taxable values only changed by 3.48% residential and 1.39% commercial due to tax caps. Total taxable value change is about 3%. Key Outcomes - Ordinance to Authorize Compensation for Members of Certain Horry County Boards (Amended): The committee approved an amendment setting compensation at $100 per meeting for members and $150 for chairpersons (previously $75/$100). Mileage reimbursement is also included. The motion passed with a vote of 3-1 (Mr. Gardner dissenting). The ordinance will go to full council. - Resolution to Designate Projects Under ARPA and Transfer Funds (Barry Spivey): Unanimously approved. The resolution (1) transfers $2,000,000 from the Atlantic Avenue/Waccamaw Drive Streetscape/Resiliency project to acquire a commercial lot for parking, (2) transfers $350,000 from the ARPA Beach Bathrooms appropriation to Garden City Beach Parking, and (3) authorizes up to $5,000,000 in ARPA funds to be swapped with general fund public safety personnel expenditures to meet ARPA obligation deadlines. - Resolution Authorizing Transfer of Funds from Grants Match to East Coast Greenway – Business 17 Project (Beth Tranter): Unanimously approved. Transfer of $232,800 from grants match to fund the 20% local match for a $1,164,000 SCDOT grant for a multi-use path along Business 17 from Atlantic Avenue to the county line. - Ordinance for First Amendment to Fee Agreement with DC Blox Inc. (Barry Spivey): Unanimously approved. Extends the investment period and adds approximately 20 acres to the fee-in-lieu-of-tax agreement for the existing data center project. - Ordinance Accepting Transfer of Authority for City of Conway’s Municipal Elections (David Jordan): Unanimously approved. The county election commission will conduct Conway's municipal elections starting immediately, with the city reimbursing costs. Conway retains candidate filing. - Resolution Authorizing Chairman to Execute SCDOR Form PT-444 for 5-Year Exemption Extension from PSI Molded Plastics to S3 Realty (David Jordan): Unanimously approved. Transfers an existing state tax credit (approx. $7,000/year reimbursed by SCDOR) to the new property owner with no cost to the county. - Community Benefit Fund Requests: Two allocations were approved unanimously: $1,000 to Surfside Area Rotary (District 6) for Happy Feet, Backpack Buddies, and holiday meals; and $1,500 to Longs Volunteers (District 9) for supplies for elderly, sick, and children.

The Horry County Council met on October 15, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. in Council Chambers. The meeting included approval of consent agenda items, several ordinance readings (second and third), a failed rezoning request, service awards, and an executive session. Chairman Johnny Gardner presided. Consent Calendar - Approved the consent agenda as amended, with recusals noted for Councilman Servant (Ordinance 100-2024) and Councilwoman Dukes (Ordinances 132-2024 and 133-2024). The consent agenda included 24 items: multiple airport concession and lease agreements (Ordinances 100-2024 through 104-2024), zoning map amendments (Ordinances 105-2024, 113-2024, 115-2024, 116-2024), bond authorization (Ordinance 119-2024), airport hangar lease (Ordinance 121-2024), lease with Horry County Council on Aging (Ordinance 122-2024), zoning ordinance amendment for non-commercial personal use buildings (Ordinance 123-2024), additional zoning map amendments (Ordinances 124-2024, 126-2024, 131-2024, 136-2024), Future Land Use Map amendments (Ordinances 127-2024 through 135-2024), a development agreement (Ordinance 133-2024), surplus property resolution (R-120-2024), opioid recovery fund application (R-121-2024), road dedication resolutions (R-122-2024 through R-125-2024), lease extension for Myrtle Beach Pelicans stadium (R-126-2024), and approval of the 2025 Regular Council Meeting Schedule. All were approved unanimously except where recusals applied. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public signed up to speak during the public input period. Discussion Items - Deferral of Paragraph 25: The council deferred Ordinance 87-2024 (amending Highway 17 Business South Overlay Zone) by acclamation. - Budget Amendment (Ordinance 117-2024, Third Reading): The council approved an amendment to the FY2025 budget that adds six positions (three records/registration coordinators for IT and Voter Registration, one administrative assistant each for Public Defender, Solicitor, and Clerk of Court, and one economic development coordinator), establishes spending schedules for various capital improvement projects, transfers $825,000 from CIP contingency to the Big Bull Landing Project, and increases council member and chairman salaries by $5,000 each effective January 1, 2025. The amendment passed on a voice vote with no dissent. - Rezoning and FLUM Amendments (Ordinances 107-2024 & 108-2024, Second Reading): The council approved changing the Future Land Use designation from Suburban to Rural Communities and rezoning from CFA/FA to MRD1 for PINs 26600000005, 26600000006, 26600000007, and 26601020001 (90 single-family homes). Passed unanimously. - Rezoning and FLUM Amendments (Ordinances 111-2024 & 112-2024, Second Reading): The council approved rezoning PIN 37800000041 from FA to MRD1 (116 single-family homes) and corresponding FLUM change from Rural to Rural Communities. Passed unanimously. - Gambling Vessel Surcharge (Ordinance 120-2024, Second Reading): The council approved an ordinance to continue and adjust the gambling vessel surcharge: $10 per boarding passenger until March 31, 2025, then $15 until January 1, 2030, when it will increase to $18. The ordinance sunsets after 10 years. Passed with Councilman Allen voting no. - Rezoning Denial (Ordinance 125-2024, First Reading): A request to rezone PIN 4480901001 from SF 40 to MSF 40 (to allow a manufactured home) failed unanimously after the Planning Commission and staff recommended disapproval. Councilman Loftus, the district representative, also opposed. - Memorial Dedications: The council honored Frank Wormy (No. 55 Harrelson), Joanne G. Wigan, Varaine Lightweight, Susan Rose Jordan, Charles Parker, Molly Nobles, and Ronald Tyler by adjourning the meeting in their memory. - Service Awards: Chairman Gardner presented a 15-year service award to Councilman Gary Loftus and a 10-year service award to Clerk to Council Ashley Carroll. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda Approved with recusals noted. - FY2025 Budget Amendment (Ordinance 117-2024) Approved on third reading, adding positions and funding for capital projects and council salary increases. - Two Rezoning/FLUM Amendments (Ordinances 107/108 and 111/112) Approved on second reading, allowing new subdivisions. - Gambling Vessel Surcharge Ordinance (Ordinance 120-2024) Approved on second reading with one dissenting vote. - Rezoning Request (Ordinance 125-2024) Denied unanimously on first reading. - Executive Session: The council moved into executive session to discuss the County Administrator's contract. No votes were taken.

The Public Safety Committee met on October 8, 2024, at 1:00 p.m. in the County Council Conference Room. The meeting covered resolutions, discussion items on beach shade devices, fire prevention week, environmental services, and budget presentations from the Coroner, Detention Center, and Solicitor. The committee also received updates on Hurricane Helene response and an upcoming storm. An executive session was held; no decisions were made. Consent Calendar - Resolution – Surplus Service Weapon: Approved declaring a Glock 45 (serial number BZXC732) surplus and making it available to retiring Police Officer Kevin Daniels. Motion carried unanimously. - Opioid Recovery Fund Grant Application: Approved a resolution to submit a CY2025 grant application to the South Carolina Opioid Recovery Fund Board for $1,193,513.80 to continue three programs: harm reduction (HCFR), jail diversion/reentry (J. Reuben Long Detention Center), and treatment court expansion (15th Judicial Circuit). The grant requires no match; accrued interest of $22,733.73 is included. The committee also authorized acceptance if awarded. Motion carried unanimously. - Approval of Agenda and Minutes: The agenda and minutes from September 10, 2024 were approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - No public input was received. Discussion Items - Beach Shade Devices (David Jordan, Randy Webster): Staff presented information on Shibumi and Sabella wind-driven shade devices, which are currently prohibited under the county ordinance (only umbrellas ≤7.5 ft diameter allowed). Shibumi representatives requested an off-season allowance. Lieutenant Mueller of the Horry County Police Beach Patrol described challenges: devices take up large areas (Shibumi fits 6 people, has a tether sandbag trip hazard), rotate with wind changes, and become curtains when windless. He noted that neighboring municipalities have varied rules (e.g., Myrtle Beach allows off-peak, Surfside allows year-round with restrictions). Committee members expressed concerns about enforcement and space. Chairman Hardee suggested staff (Mr. Jordan, Lieutenant Mueller, and Mary Mauch) analyze options and bring a recommendation to the next meeting (likely January 2025). - Fire Prevention Week (Chief Joey Tanner, Assistant Chief Mark Nugent): Proclaimed October 6–12, 2024 as Fire Prevention Week with theme “Smoke alarms: Make them work for you!” HCFR deploys over 1,000 smoke alarms annually. The department has won the SC Fire Chiefs Association Outstanding Public Education Award for 2023 and 2024 and has been named a Fire Safe Community for three consecutive years. The committee recognized the department’s efforts. - Environmental Services (Heather Wilson): Reported on the Animal Care Center (increase in owner-request euthanasia from 103 in FY23 to 240 in FY24, high demand for spay/neuter services with only one veterinarian), the Community Engagement Unit (litter and homeless response, event support), School Resource Officers (seven in high schools, seeking three more for middle schools), and calls for service increases. A need for an additional veterinarian and more space was noted. - Coroner Budget Discussion (Robert Edge, Ms. Willard): Requested one additional administrative position. Cases have risen from 1,231 in 2005 to an estimated 4,071 in FY2024, while staffing (two administrators) has not changed since 2005. The position would handle phone calls, walk-ins, and release of remains. - Detention Center Budget Discussion (Marcus Rhodes): Requested 12 additional correctional officers: four medical officers, four detox officers (to address 182 inmates detoxing in September, 2,043 medical contacts, 107 psychiatric visits, 49 suicide watches), one court officer (video court demands), and two night-shift officers. Also requested additional nursing staff for 24/7 detox monitoring. These positions would also help meet SCDC staffing recommendations. - Solicitor Budget Discussion (Kathy, Josh Holford): Requested two administrative assistants (one for jail case intake to fast-track cases, one for ending records/evidence.com integration) and two additional attorneys for the drug prosecution team (currently each of six attorneys handles 670 warrants; target is 475 per attorney). The team prosecutes about 10,000 warrants per year (5,000 unique defendants). Committee members expressed support and asked about recidivism and bond reform. Department Reports - Written reports for Police, Fire/Rescue, Animal Care Center, Emergency Management, 911, Sheriff’s Office, Detention Center, and EMS write-offs were included in the meeting packets and reviewed by the committee. Emergency Management Update (Sam Hodge) - Briefed on Hurricane Milton (potential impacts to Florida; minor effects expected for Horry County: 1–2 ft storm surge, 1–2 inches rain). Reported on Hurricane Helene response: three EMD staff deployed to Saluda, Oconee, Edgefield, and Allendale counties for EOC support. HCFR sent five members to SC Task Force 1, one engine company to Greenville County, and five firefighters to North Carolina. Teams are being demobilized and may deploy to Florida. Executive Session - The committee entered executive session to receive legal advice regarding a pending, threatened, or potential claim and other attorney-client privileged matters. No decisions were made. Next Meeting - The next Public Safety Committee meeting will be on November 6, 2024 (Wednesday, day after election day). Key Outcomes - Resolutions approved: Surplus weapon for Kevin Daniels; Opioid Recovery Fund grant application (up to $1,193,513.80). - Discussion Items: No votes were taken on budget requests or beach device changes; staff will bring recommendations on beach devices to a future meeting. - Budget Requests: The Coroner, Detention Center, and Solicitor presented needs for additional positions and resources; these will be considered in future budget discussions.