Public Meetings - Horry County, South Carolina

The Horry County Administration Committee met on March 24, 2026, beginning at 2:00 p.m. in the County Council Conference Room, with Chairman Tyler Servant presiding. Cam Crawford offered the invocation and led the Pledge of Allegiance. The committee heard economic development updates, reviewed county finances and operating reports, and unanimously approved four action items. Opening and Administrative Approvals - The committee unanimously approved the meeting agenda contents. - The committee unanimously approved the minutes of the January 27, 2026 Administration Committee meeting. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public signed up or provided comments. Discussion Items MBREDC Update - Sandy Davis reported that MBREDC closed 2025 with three announcements totaling more than $25 million in capital investment and 130 new jobs. In 2026, the county has announced a second Amazon location with more than $15 million in investment and at least 100 jobs. - She said MBREDC is working 278 open leads and 54 active projects, its largest project count to date, and private membership funds have grown to more than $400,000, nearly matching county operating support. - Marketing efforts include five planned marketing missions, five trade shows, a first-time PGA trade show visit that met 10 companies, and a Miami boat show. A project manager was in Texas on a mission with NESA. - Davis also reported a $372,500 high-impact grant award to help purchase an industrial park with natural gas, continued work on the Ascot Valley spec building, progress on the Rivernet Gas Line after a Supreme Court ruling in favor of Dominion, and ongoing Opportunity Zone work. NESA Update - Jeff McKay presented the NESA update (the transcript uses "NISA"). He said NESA conducted 16 marketing missions last year and finished 2025 with 71 projects on its books. - The region recorded 13 announcements in 2025 with more than 400 jobs and roughly $426 million in capital investment; in 2026 to date, four announcements have brought more than 200 jobs and more than $279 million in investment. - He cited tariffs, energy availability, infrastructure, access to capital and interest rates, and midterm elections as factors slowing company decisions. Active sectors include fabricated/primary metal products, food and beverage, data centers, industrial machinery, wood/paper products, aerospace, marine/maritime, and non-metallic minerals. - NESA inquiries show 42% seeking greenfield sites, 38% existing buildings, and 20% open to either; the average building size sought is 270,000 square feet, and only 21% require rail access. Financial Update – February 2026 - Jamie Norman reported revenues across all funds of approximately $356.9 million, with almost 68% in the general fund, and expenditures across all funds of approximately $235.5 million, with 74% in the general fund. - General fund revenues were $241.6 million, almost 84% of the annual budget, while expenditures were $174 million, 59% of budget. Revenues were 5.9% higher and expenditures 12.2% higher than the prior year. - She noted collection of almost 99% of real and personal property taxes, with vehicle taxes, interest, and Register of Deeds fees also performing better than expected. - Special revenue fund net changes in fund balance were reported as: fire $15.3 million, road maintenance $5.8 million, beach renourishment $6.1 million, stormwater $10.6 million, recreation $3.3 million, and waste management/recycling $10 million. In response to a question, she explained that road maintenance work is mostly done in summer and unspent road maintenance funds carry forward. GFOA Budget Award - Shannon Todd announced Horry County received the Government Finance Officers Association Distinguished Budget Presentation Award for the 36th consecutive year and thanked the finance team and departments. Veterans Affairs Evaluation Assessment - Shannon Todd recognized the Veterans Affairs office after the State Department of Veterans Affairs evaluation. The assessment said the Horry County Veterans Affairs Office is "one of the most effective in the entire state" and "exceptionally strong," and described the county's CVAO as "one of the most experienced and capable in South Carolina." She noted the office assists nearly 30,000 veterans. Annual OSHA Update - Risk Manager Shelly Moore presented the 2025 OSHA 300A summary. Compared with 2024, 2025 had 7 more cases with days away from work, 6 more restricted-duty cases, 4 fewer medical-only cases, and 9 more total injuries. However, days away from work fell by 175 and restricted-duty days fell by 1,075. - She noted the county averaged 58 more employees and worked more than 301,000 additional hours in 2025, and the workers' compensation experience modifier is currently 0.85, down from FY24, producing premium savings. HC Connect App Update - Justin Schools from IT said the HC Connect app, launched in 2018, is being sunset because of increased regulations and the improved mobile-friendly website; its functionality has been moved to the county website. Actions - Fair Housing Month Resolution: Beth Tranter presented a resolution designating April 2026 as Fair Housing Month, noting that April 11, 2026 is the 58th anniversary of the Fair Housing Act and that South Carolina enacted its Fair Housing Law in 1989. The committee approved it unanimously. - DOJ Victim Services Grant Resolution: Beth Tranter presented a resolution authorizing the Behavioral Services Department to submit and accept, if awarded, a U.S. Department of Justice Office of Victim Services grant of up to $1,200,000 for the Horry County Housing Stabilization Program. The program would operate two trauma-informed transitional housing units in partnership with Eastern Carolina Housing Organization and Engaging Minds. In response to a question, Tranter explained it serves victims who need transitional housing and wraparound services. The committee approved it unanimously. - Airport ARFF Truck Fund Transfer: Airport Director Judi Olmstead requested transfer of $1,500,000 from Project A0095 (Terminal Contingency) to Account 540004 for a replacement Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting Truck. The truck replaces a 2009 Rosenbauer and has a roughly 15-month delivery lead time, so the airport needs to issue a purchase order before FY2027; funds would be transferred back on July 1. The committee approved it unanimously. - Abandoned Building Certification – 1009 US-501: David Jordan presented a resolution certifying the former Food Lion site at 1009 US-501, Myrtle Beach, as an abandoned building site under the South Carolina Abandoned Buildings Revitalization Act, making it eligible for state tax credits. A December 2020 Sun News article documenting the closure was included. The committee approved it unanimously. Key Outcomes - All four action items were approved unanimously by the committee. - No old business or executive session was conducted. - The next Administration Committee meeting is scheduled for April 28, 2026. - The meeting adjourned after the committee-approved motions.

This meeting, held at 6:00 p.m. in the County Council Chambers, covered zoning ordinances, a resolution honoring public safety telecommunicators, and public concern over tree clearing. All votes were unanimous unless noted. Note: The agenda and transcript indicate the meeting occurred on March 17, 2026, but the user-provided date is March 18, 2026; this summary uses the specified date. Consent Calendar The following items were approved unanimously as part of the consent agenda: - Third Reading – Ordinance 14-2026 (rezoning PIN 43701010020 from SF 20 to MSF 20, Juliet Johnson-Richardson) - Third Reading – Ordinance 15-2026 (rezoning PIN 44015040018 from SF 6 to RE 3, Wilbert Kent Sellers et al.) - Third Reading – Ordinance 16-2026 (adding SP Hawes Sr. House to the Horry County Historic Property Register) - First Reading – Ordinance 17-2026 (rezoning a 51.17-acre portion from FA to MRD-P, agent for CM66, LLC) - First Reading – Ordinance 20-2026 (rezoning PIN 40612020001 from FA & CP to MSF 20, agent for Dorrence Keith Johnson) - First Reading – Ordinance 21-2026 (rezoning PIN 32208030019 from SF 40 to SF 14.5, agent for Erika H. Roberts) - First Reading – Ordinance 22-2026 (rezoning PIN 27510040016 from MSF 40 to AG 3, agent for Darel Owen Watts et al.) - First Reading – Ordinance 24-2026 (amending Articles II & XIV regarding amusement uses) - First Reading – Ordinance 25-2026 (amending Article VIII, Section 809, Highway 17 Business South Overlay Zone) - First Reading – Ordinance 26-2026 (amending Article VIII, Section 831, Temporary Vending Overlay Zones) - First Reading – Ordinance 27-2026 (amending Article VIII, Section 806, Little River Overlay Zone) Public Comments & Testimony Kelly La Pietra, a resident of the Forestbrook/Sakasi area, spoke against widespread tree clearing near her neighborhood. She reported that approximately 25–30 acres of trees were removed at the entrance of the Arcadia section, and another 30 acres were cleared along Sakasti Boulevard. She stated the clearing has lowered property values by $20,000–$30,000 per home, increased flood risk, and created an unsightly “war zone.” She called for a permit process for tree removal, notification of nearby residents, and a two-percent transfer tax on home sales to fund land preservation. No other public comments were made. Discussion Items - Resolution R-18-2026 (National Public Safety Telecommunicator Week): The resolution declaring April 12–18, 2026, as Public Safety Telecommunicator Week was introduced. Council members praised 911 dispatchers as the “heartbeat of public safety.” The resolution passed unanimously. - Second Reading – Ordinance 117-2025 (Planned Development District Amendments): Councilman DiSabato moved to amend the ordinance with proposed changes before approval. The amendment was seconded and passed unanimously. The main motion, as amended, also passed unanimously. - First Reading – Ordinance 18-2026 (Rezoning PIN 25311010003 from LFA to MSF 20): This rezoning request had staff disapproval but Planning Commission approval (7:1). Councilman Hardee moved approval; it passed unanimously. - First Reading – Ordinance 19-2026 (Rezoning PIN 33710040064 from CFA to MA 1, Tow Yard): The applicant sought rezoning for an existing unpermitted tow yard. Staff and the Planning Commission both recommended disapproval. Councilman Anderson, representing District 7, moved to deny. Public opposition (21-signature petition, 8 speakers against, 0 in favor) was noted. The motion to deny passed unanimously. - First Reading – Ordinance 23-2026 (Landscape, Buffer, and Tree Preservation Standards): Councilman Allen proposed amending the 60-day grace period for existing plans to 120 days. Councilman Loftus then moved to defer the entire ordinance to the next regular meeting (April 21, 2026) to allow further discussion. The motion to defer passed unanimously; the amendment was withdrawn pending deferral. - Memorial Dedications: Council members read names of deceased individuals to be honored. The meeting was adjourned in their memory. Key Outcomes - Resolution adopted: R-18-2026 (unanimous). - Ordinance 117-2025: Passed second reading as amended (unanimous). - Ordinance 18-2026: Passed first reading (unanimous). - Ordinance 19-2026: Denied on first reading (unanimous). - Ordinance 23-2026: Deferred to April 21, 2026, to consider amendments (unanimous). - Consent Agenda: All items approved (unanimous). - Next meetings: Administration Committee – March 24 at 2:00 p.m.; Transportation Committee – March 24 at 3:00 p.m.; Spring Planning Retreat – April 1 at 9:00 a.m.; Next regular council meeting – April 21, 2026.

The Horry County Council held its regular meeting on Tuesday, March 3, 2026, beginning at approximately 6:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers. Council unanimously approved the agenda, minutes, and consent agenda; heard one public comment; accepted risk-management and safety awards; advanced two rezoning ordinances and one historic-register ordinance on second reading; deferred a Planned Development District ordinance; and adjourned in memory of recently deceased community members. No executive session was held. Note: The minutes packet included with the source record is for the February 17, 2026 regular meeting; March 3, 2026 minutes were not included. Consent Calendar - Agenda approved unanimously. - Minutes of the February 17, 2026 regular meeting approved unanimously. - Consent agenda approved unanimously: Third Reading of Ordinance 12-2026 authorizing up to $5,000,000 in general obligation bonds, Series 2026, to help finance design, acquisition, construction, and equipping of an EMS station in the Windy Hill area; Third Reading of Ordinance 13-2026 amending the FY2026 budget to add $346,331 in principal expenditures in the Capital Planning fund for the Windy Hill EMS project; and Resolution R-13-2026 honoring Dick and Carol Patterson for their volunteerism and statewide recognition. Public Comments & Testimony - Patricia Molly, the only public speaker, urged Council to preserve playgrounds and open space and to prevent playgrounds from being rezoned to adjacent zoning or lost to tax sales. She expressed concern about the pace of development and tree loss, asked for tree barriers around developments and along roads as hurricane windbreaks, and cited her own development's open space that she said was sold at tax sale and later zoned R4. She referenced Hurricane Andrew and Hurricane Hugo in McClellanville to argue that trees protect homes. Council listened without debate, consistent with public input rules. Presentations & Recognitions - Robert Benfield of the SC Association of Counties presented the county its 15th consecutive Excellence in Risk Management award. He noted that 42 of 46 South Carolina counties participate in the workers' compensation trust and that Horry County's workers' compensation experience modifier of 0.85, a value below 1.0 that produces premium savings, equated to approximately $730,000 in savings for taxpayers. A county risk-management representative credited department heads and Council support. - Horry County Fire Rescue received an Outstanding Achievement award for its Harm Reduction Program. Chief Lawson described the Leave Behind program launched in October 2024: every ambulance, fire truck, and QRV carries two naloxone kits; the county has partnered with Conway and North Myrtle Beach to equip their units. He stated that more than 600 doses of naloxone had been given out and that over 800 of these were through the leave-behind program (as transcribed), funded through the state opioid settlement grant. Discussion Items - Ordinance 117-2025, amending Articles II and III of the Zoning Ordinance regarding Planned Development Districts, was on second reading. Councilmember Causey moved to defer to the next meeting because more information was needed. The motion to defer passed unanimously. Ordinances – Second Reading & Public Hearings - Ordinance 14-2026 (Juliet Johnson-Richardson): Motion by Anderson, second by DiSabato. No public comments. Passed unanimously. The ordinance rezones PIN 43701010020, approximately 2.08 acres at Hwy 701 S and Levi Lane in Conway, from SF 20 to MSF 20 to allow manufactured homes; third reading is scheduled for March 17, 2026. - Ordinance 15-2026 (Wilbert Kent Sellers et al.): Motion by Crawford. No public comments. Passed unanimously. The ordinance rezones PIN 44015040018, approximately 0.98 acres on Hwy 707 in Myrtle Beach, from SF 6 to RE 3 (Convenience and Auto-related Services) for a mini warehouse facility; RE 3 does not allow outdoor storage; third reading is scheduled for March 17, 2026. - Ordinance 16-2026 (SP Hawes Sr. House): Motion made; no public comments. Passed unanimously. The ordinance adds the SP Hawes Sr. House, constructed circa 1918, to the Horry County Historic Property Register. The property is in the Conway Residential Historic District and listed on the National Register of Historic Places; third reading is scheduled for March 17, 2026. Memorial Dedications - Council read the following names and concluded the meeting in their memory: John Quitman Miller III, Karen Floyd Nobles, Alan Buddy Johnson, Julian O'Dell Hughes, Joseph Harold Caps Sr., Brenda Fay Mosier, Martha Ann Staley, Leona Gerald, Brandon Baxley, Horace Joe Jordan, Betty Lou Smith, Sally Caps, Jesse B. Kreidler, Jack Frank Davis, Ava Holland, and Carter Calabrese. Key Outcomes - All consent items passed unanimously. - Ordinance 117-2025 was deferred unanimously to the next meeting. - Ordinances 14-2026, 15-2026, and 16-2026 passed second reading unanimously with public hearings closed. - Upcoming meetings: Council Meeting March 17 at 6:00 p.m.; Administration Committee March 24 at 2:00 p.m.; Transportation Committee March 24 at 3:00 p.m.; Spring Planning Retreat April 1 at 9:00 a.m. - No executive session was held; the meeting was adjourned in memory of the listed individuals.

The Horry County Council held a regular meeting on February 17, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers. The meeting included public comments on vehicle registration complaints and concerns about a special tax district, recognition of a 40‑year employee and volunteer award recipients, consideration and approval of a telecommunications tower permit, and second readings of ordinances authorizing a bond issuance and a budget amendment. All votes were unanimous except where noted. Consent Calendar - The council unanimously approved the consent agenda, which included third readings of ordinances rezoning several properties, an ordinance prohibiting unauthorized camping on county property, and an ordinance amending the Highway 17 Business South Overlay Zone; first readings of rezoning ordinances and adding the SP Hawes Sr. House to the Historic Property Register; resolutions ending a state of emergency, transferring funds for a TSA checkpoint, authorizing a School Resource Officers grant, declaring a service weapon as surplus, entering a mutual E‑911 aid agreement, and supporting the Conway Chamber of Commerce’s Riverfest; a community benefit fund allocation of $1,000 to Socastee High School Baseball; and the appointment of Ruth Tamulonis to the Library Board of Trustees. Public Comments & Testimony - Michael Tompkinson (Little River resident) requested that the county enforce the 30‑day rule for out‑of‑state vehicle registration to ensure tax compliance, and reported finding a large sum of money in the auditor’s office that he believes was mishandled. - Tandra Hodum (Eagle Trace resident, District 8) raised concerns about the Eagle Trace Special Tax District, alleging that the petition used to create the district did not meet statutory requirements (e.g., non‑resident homeowners included in the assessed value), that a neighborhood poll was conducted without proper notice, and that the county’s financial plan shows excess revenue being collected. She asked the council to reconsider the district and suggested an audit for similar districts. Presentations & Resolutions - Recognition of 40‑Year Employee: Sheriff Philip Thompson presented Sergeant Ernest Baby, a 40‑year veteran of the Horry County Police Department and Sheriff’s Office, for his dedicated service. - Resolution R‑13‑2026: The council unanimously adopted a resolution honoring Dick and Carol Patterson for their volunteerism at Vereen Memorial Historical Gardens and for receiving the 2025 South Carolina Recreation and Parks Community Champion Award. Discussion Items - Resolution R‑18‑2026 – Telecommunications Tower Permit (Public Hearing): The council held a public hearing on a request to replace an existing 277‑ft freestanding tower with a new 283‑ft freestanding tower at 1752 Shelly’s Place, Little River. The applicant, Jonathan Yates, noted the tower would include reflective tape at 150 ft as required by county ordinance. No public opposition was expressed. The resolution was approved unanimously. - Second Reading – Ordinance 12‑2026 (General Obligation Bonds): The council approved the issuance and sale of up to $5,000,000 in general obligation bonds, Series 2026, to finance an EMS station in the Windy Hill area. No public comments. Unanimous. - Second Reading – Ordinance 13‑2026 (Budget Amendment): The council approved an amendment to the FY2026 budget to add $346,331 in principal expenditures for the Windy Hill EMS project due to a shorter debt amortization schedule. Unanimous. Key Outcomes - All motions on the consent agenda and resolutions were approved unanimously. - Resolution R‑18‑2026 for the telecommunications tower was approved without opposition. - Second readings of Ordinance 12‑2026 and Ordinance 13‑2026 passed unanimously. - The meeting adjourned at approximately 6:56 p.m. after memorial dedications for 13 individuals.

The Infrastructure & Regulation Committee met on February 11, 2026, at 9:00 AM in the County Council Conference Room to discuss a wide range of items including beach renourishment updates, a landfill expansion briefing, several resolutions, and multiple zoning ordinance amendments. The committee heard public input, recognized staff achievements, and approved most items, with the notable exception of the asphalt/concrete processing ordinance which was sent back to staff for further revision. Consent Calendar - Approved the agenda as presented. - Approved the minutes of the December 2, 2025 meeting. - Recognized Heather Davis and Desiree Jackson for achieving AICP certification. - Recognized Robert Freeman for receiving the Merit Award from the South Carolina Recreation and Parks Association and completing the Parks Maintenance Management School. - Approved a resolution authorizing the transfer of funds ($1.5M) from Project A0095 (Terminal Contingency) to Project A0136 (TSA Checkpoint expansion) for airport security checkpoint design. - Approved a resolution honoring Dick and Carol Patterson for their volunteerism at Vereen Memorial Historical Gardens and their receipt of the 2025 South Carolina Recreation and Parks Community Champion Award. - Approved a resolution allocating $1,000 in Council Community Benefit Funds to Socastee High School Baseball for field equipment. Public Comments & Testimony - Robert Steele (associated with Concrete Supply Company) spoke in opposition to weakening the existing concrete plant ordinance. He stated he had spent $450,000 to enclose a plant in 2018 and argued that setbacks should remain at 500 feet and enclosure requirements should not be removed, warning that reducing standards would invite problems similar to those experienced in the past. Discussion Items - Beach Renourishment Update (Al Allen): The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers project in North Myrtle Beach (Reach 1) is complete. Arcadian Shores renourishment (county/City of Myrtle Beach non-federal project) is scheduled to begin the first week of March 2026, covering 8,500 linear feet from Singleton Swash to Apache Pier. The county's cost is $4.8 million. Dredging will proceed to Reach 2 (Myrtle Beach) and Reach 3 (Garden City/Surfside) through summer 2026. - Horry County Solid Waste Authority Landfill Expansion Briefing (Bob Kemp, Wayne Beam, Tom Bellou): The SWA has submitted a permit application to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to construct three new landfill cells (two C&D, one MSW) on the existing Highway 90 site, providing 45 years of additional capacity for 23.4 million tons of non-divertible waste. The expansion would impact 102.4 acres of wetlands. The 30-day public comment period ended recently; staff is awaiting Corps response. Committee members questioned alternatives, including mandatory recycling and increased diversion. Staff noted current recycling rate is about 20% and that technology limits full recycling. No vote was taken on this briefing item. - Exercise Renewal Option for Paradies Lagardere Concession Agreement (Judy Olmstead): The airport concessionaire has met its obligations and requested a five-year renewal. The committee approved the renewal. Key Outcomes - Ordinance to Prohibit Camping on County Property (Item A): Amended to change the prohibition from all camping to "unauthorized camping," allowing a permitting process through Parks and Recreation for future events (e.g., Scout jamborees). The committee voted to send the ordinance to full council as amended. - Ordinance Amending Amusement Uses (Item B): Approved to allow indoor amusement uses in AG2/AG3 districts, add indoor batting cages to the definition, and rename "Sports Facility" to "Sports Complex." Sent to council. - Ordinance Amending Highway 17 Business South Overlay (Item C): Approved to extend the overlay on Hwy 17 Bypass from Hwy 544 to the Georgetown County line. Sent to council. - Ordinance Amending Temporary Vending Overlay (Item D): Approved to increase permitted days for Spring and Fall Bike Rally vendor permits from 7 to 10 consecutive days, aligning with county code. Sent to council. - Ordinance Amending Little River Overlay (Item E): Approved to allow one-to-one replacement of existing non-digital off-premise signage with digital billboards. Sent to council. - Ordinance for Asphalt, Concrete, and Aggregate Processing Facilities (Item F): After extensive debate, the committee voted to send the ordinance back to staff with direction to separate asphalt and concrete plant regulations, maintain current enclosure requirements and setbacks (500/1,000 feet) for concrete, and consider special provisions for industrial parks. The item was not sent forward as drafted. - Ordinance Adding SP Hawes Sr. House to Historic Register (Item G): Approved unanimously. - Ordinance Amending Landscape, Buffer, and Tree Preservation Standards (Item H): Approved with an amendment offered by Councilman DiSabato to reduce any buffer reduction on external roadways east of the Waccamaw River from 50% to 25%. The amended ordinance will go to the Planning Commission for recommendation before returning to council. Key changes include increased buffers for major residential developments (e.g., 100 feet along external roads), penalties for premature clear-cutting (36-month development suspension), and enhanced buffers for certain infill areas.

The Horry County Public Safety Committee met on February 10, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. in the County Council Conference Room. Chairman Danny Hardee presided. The committee addressed a public hearing, approved several resolutions, and received detailed updates from the Solicitor, Coroner, Sheriff, Animal Shelter, Emergency Management, and consultants on the Detention Center study. All resolutions were passed unanimously. Public Hearing - Fireworks Prohibited Zone – Heather Glen Community Association: Maria Schultz, Board President, requested that the Heather Glen neighborhood be designated a fireworks-free zone. She cited disturbances to pets, bald eagles, and veterans with PTSD. No public opposition was heard. The committee will vote on this at a future meeting. Resolutions - Resolution to Submit and Accept SRO Grant: Chief Leonhardt presented a resolution to apply for a state-funded grant of $2,711,537 for 15 School Resource Officers (7 high schools, 8 middle schools) in unincorporated Horry County. The motion passed unanimously. - Surplus Weapon for Deceased Officer’s Family: A resolution declaring Officer Eddie Martin’s service weapon (Glock, serial BZXC724) as surplus and making it available to his family was approved unanimously. - Master Cooperative Agreement for E-911 Mutual Aid: Renee Hardwick presented a resolution to join the Coastal Area Cooperative, adding Dorchester and Florence Counties and removing Georgetown. The resolution passed unanimously. - Support for Conway Riverfest: A resolution expressing support for the Conway Chamber of Commerce’s Riverfest celebration and consenting to use county parking lots for the Business Expo and Artisan Market (without alcohol sales) was approved unanimously. - National Telecommunicator Week: A resolution declaring April 14–20, 2026 as National Telecommunicator Week was approved unanimously. - Crime Victims’ Rights Week: A resolution proclaiming April 19–25, 2026 as Crime Victims’ Rights Week was approved unanimously. Discussion Items - Solicitor’s End-of-Year Update: Solicitor Jimmy Richardson reported that in 2025, his office moved 18 murder cases, processed 1,700 more cases than were brought in, reduced the backlog, and placed 313 new participants in drug court with 265 graduates. He thanked council for support and stated no additional needs. - Coroner’s End-of-Year Update: Coroner Robert Edge reported that deaths increased from 3,526 in 2022 to 4,870 in 2025, with the majority due to drug overdoses, especially fentanyl. He introduced Dr. Renee Callsy of FAVOR, a prevention organization. - Sheriff’s Office Update: Sheriff Thompson reported serving over 2,200 arrest warrants, 9,000 civil papers, 521 escorts, and managing 645 active sex offenders. The Internet Crimes Against Children task force saw a 27% increase in tips, with 92 search warrants and 26 arrests. Home detention saved approximately $6 per day per inmate. The detention center staffing improved from 64 vacancies to 6, with full staffing expected by February 23, 2026. He noted successful plea hearings conducted at the detention center. - Animal Shelter Update: Justin Wyatt reported that cold weather doubled or tripled calls, with the shelter at capacity. Mitigation included distributing blankets and wood chips. An adoption event was scheduled for February 13, 2026, at 209 Laurel Street. Councilman DiSabato requested a review of animal ordinances for extreme temperatures. - Exercise Insights: Disaster Utility Operations: Sam Hodge presented lessons learned from three exercises (Operation Stormfront) and a Powerback Summit with utilities. Key takeaways included establishing consistent power restoration protocols, clarifying authority to disconnect, and improving generator safety messaging. The summit was held December 16, 2025, with 40 participants. - Detention Center Study: Barry Spivey introduced consultants from Mosley Design. They presented a condition assessment of J. Reuben Long Detention Center, noting the 1986 bow tie section is at the end of its useful life. Projected bed needs: 1,018 by 2025, 1,180 by 2030, 1,368 by 2035, 1,586 by 2040. Phase 1 (new 574-bed tower focusing on mental health, medical, and female housing) estimated at $130 million. Phase 2 (additional 340 male beds) estimated at $55 million. The committee did not vote but will consider a recommendation at the spring retreat. Key Outcomes - All resolutions on the agenda were approved unanimously. - The public hearing on the fireworks zone will be voted on at a future meeting. - The committee directed staff to review animal ordinances for extreme weather conditions. - The detention center study will be further discussed at the spring retreat, with design funding anticipated in FY2027. - The committee moved into executive session for legal advice (no decisions made). - The next meeting was announced for April 14, 2026.

The Horry County Council convened on February 3, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. in Council Chambers. The meeting opened with an invocation, the Pledge of Allegiance, and a report from the County Administrator on the county's response to the recent winter storm. The bulk of the meeting focused on public input regarding a proposed mediated settlement agreement for a psychiatric hospital (Asha Vista Behavioral Institute) and council discussion/vote on that agreement. Numerous consent agenda items and second-reading ordinances were also approved. Consent Calendar - Third Reading – Zoning Map Amendments (8 ordinances): Ord 118-2025 through Ord 126-2025 – All approved unanimously. - First Reading – Ordinance 10-2026: Amending the Official Index Map to add right-of-way for the Carolina Bays Parkway extension. Approved. - First Reading – Ordinance 12-2026: Authorizing up to $5,000,000 in general obligation bonds for a Windy Hill EMS station. Approved. - First Reading – Ordinance 13-2026: Amending the FY2026 budget to adjust expenditures for the Windy Hill EMS bond amortization. Approved. - Resolution R-01-2026: Designating $500,000 in ARPA interest funds for the Family Justice Center Domestic Violence Shelter. Approved. - Resolution R-02-2026: Directing the administrator to pursue congressionally directed funding for six projects (runway reconstruction, SC 22 extension, Conway River Crossing, SC 31, Conway Perimeter Road, Longs radio tower). Approved. - Resolution R-03-2026: Authorizing virtual meetings for the Horry County Library Board of Trustees. Approved. - Resolutions R-04 through R-09: Accepting dedication of roads and drainage into the county maintenance system for Chestnut Farms, Hidden Pines Phase 1, Ridgefield Phases 4–7. Approved. - Community Benefit Fund allocations (CBF-01 through CBF-05): Totaling $19,750 to various organizations (Aynor High School baseball, Conway Hot Shots, Student Angler League, Waccamaw EOC, Grand Strand Christian Church). Approved. - District Board Appointment: Pam Timms to the Museum Board of Trustees (District 6). Approved. Public Comments & Testimony Public comment lasted 30 minutes and was overwhelmingly focused on the proposed mediated settlement for Asha Vista Behavioral Institute, a 78-bed acute psychiatric hospital to be located off Highway 707 in a former office building. Fifteen speakers signed up; seven spoke before time expired. Key points: - Travis Day Huff (attorney for Asha Vista): Argued the facility is the only option for near-term inpatient psychiatric care in the county; described security measures (wall, fencing, 24/7 surveillance, security guard); stated the settlement agreement includes a ban on outpatient drug treatment; claimed zoning restrictions against mental health facilities violate the ADA. He said a petition supporting the project had over 1,100 signatures and cited a survey showing 77% public support when informed of ED strain. - Franz Savage (CEO of Asha Vista): Expressed hometown ties; said the facility would bring 165 high-paying jobs, be ready in 8–10 months, treat only adult patients from the community, and not admit sexual offenders or those directly from correctional facilities. - Gerald O'Neill (Arbor Oaks resident): Opposed the location, arguing it does not belong in a residential neighborhood with one road in and out; questioned the financial motive ($25 million potential annual revenue); noted the need for a wall indicates incompatibility. - Dr. Victoria Calder (psychologist): Urged the council to vote no; argued alternative locations exist; raised concerns about dual-diagnosis patients and external obsolescence reducing property values; urged council not to yield to litigation threats. - Stephanie Capetta (Horry County Residents for Responsible Building): Stated the issue is a zoning change and urged council to uphold zoning integrity rather than be bullied by legal threats. - Anna Cakis (Arbor Oaks resident): Opposed the project, citing traffic, school safety, and the precedent of changing zoning; noted the ZBA previously denied the special exception unanimously. - Steve Schlossberger (Prince Creek resident): Opposed the facility; suggested the building should remain for senior or other compatible uses; expressed safety concerns about psychiatric patients. Discussion Items - Storm Response Report: County Administrator Barry Spivey reported that the county experienced a winter storm equivalent to a Category 1 hurricane. Over 100 public works/stormwater personnel worked 2,000+ man-hours; nine plowing crews covered 1,000 lane-miles; 45 pieces of heavy equipment used with zero accidents. All county facilities resumed normal operations. - Resolution R-10-2026 – I-73 / President Donald J. Trump Highway: Councilman Crawford moved to strike the final sentence (which stated support for naming would be withdrawn if funding not allocated by January 20, 2029). The amendment passed; the resolution as amended passed. - Second Reading – Ordinance 117-2025 (Planned Development District amendments): Councilman Causey moved to defer to March 3, 2026. Deferred unanimously. - Second Readings & Public Hearings – Zoning Map Amendments: Six ordinances (02-2026 through 08-2026) and one overlay amendment (09-2026) were approved unanimously with no public comment or council debate. - Mediated Settlement Agreement (Asha Vista): The council discussed the settlement for Civil Action No. 2025-CP-26-07830 (Horry County Medical Property Owner LLC v. Zoning Board of Appeals). Councilman Servant (District 5, where the property is located) stated he would vote no because the facility, while needed, should be in the right place; he asked colleagues to support the district member. Councilman DiSabato similarly opposed the location. Councilman Allen supported the project, arguing it is not a zoning change but a use change via special exception and that the facility is needed countywide. Chairman Gardner emphasized mental health needs and warned that fighting the lawsuit would cost taxpayer money and likely result in the facility being built without community concessions. Dr. Dukes emotionally supported the project, citing personal loss and lack of local inpatient beds. Key Outcomes - Consent agenda and all routine items were approved unanimously. - Resolution R-10-2026 (I-73 naming) was amended and approved. - Second readings of six zoning ordinances and one overlay amendment were approved. - Ordinance 117-2025 (PDD amendments) was deferred to March 3, 2026. - Vote on the mediated settlement agreement (Asha Vista): A motion to approve was made and seconded. Following discussion, the transcript ends before the final roll call. Based on the discussion, Chairman Gardner indicated he might be the only yes vote, and Dr. Dukes supported approval, while Servant and DiSabato stated they would vote no. The vote outcome is not recorded in the provided transcript, but the discussion suggests the motion did not pass. [Note: The official minutes may contain the final vote, but they were not provided.]

On January 27, 2026, the Horry County Transportation Committee met to review RIDE program updates, discuss a public roadway dedication policy survey, approve multiple road dedications, and consider a resolution supporting I-73 naming and an official map amendment for the Carolina Bays Parkway extension. The meeting was chaired by Chairman Dennis DiSabato. Consent Calendar - Approval of Agenda: The agenda was approved without objection. - Minutes: No minutes from the previous meeting were available (the committee was re-established). Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public signed up to speak, and no oral comments were offered on agenda items. Discussion Items RIDE Program Updates (Anna Barnhill, Assistant RIDE Program Manager) - RIDE 3 Completed Projects: - Dirt road paving: Group 1 (24.56 miles) and Group 2 (24.46 miles) fully completed – approximately 50 miles total. - Resurfacing: 33.13 miles of municipal roads and 66.87 miles of county roads finished. - Major projects ribbon cuttings: Palmetto Pointe Boulevard (Nov 2019), Carolina Forest Boulevard (May 2022), Middle Ridge Avenue Extension (May 2024), Postal Way Extension (Summer 2023). - US 701 Widening in Loris: substantially complete; punch list items remain. - Fred Nash Boulevard Extension: fully opened on January 20, 2026; the “hamburger” intersection (not a roundabout) has generated zero complaints to date. - RIDE 3 Under Construction: - Group 3 dirt roads: 26.11 miles total; 4.34 miles paved (Hufford Road, New Road, Norris Road, Olin Road). - SC 9 Widening in Loris: scheduled for completion in Spring 2026. - US 701 Widening in North Conway: construction contract awarded to Palmetto Corp; construction begins early 2026 with anticipated 2029 completion. - US 501 Realignment: estimated completion early 2027. - US 501 Mainline Widening: estimated completion late 2026. - US Hwy 17 Business Intersections (Garden City): construction began Fall 2025; 40-month duration; currently in utility relocation window. - Forestbrook Road: clearing and grubbing contract awarded January 2026; activities should begin early 2026. - RIDE 3 Upcoming: Group 4 dirt road paving in design; Conway Perimeter Road expected late 2026 (may push); Carolina Bays Parkway North Extension in permitting; SELL (SC-22 Extension) in permitting. - RIDE 3 Revenues: Total actual revenues through FY 2025: $825,435,245.14 versus projected $598,963,221.62 – a variance of +$226,472,023.52. - RIDE 4: - River Oaks Drive design awarded to Thomas & Hutton; kickoff occurred. - SC Hwy 90 & East Cox Ferry in design. - 38th Avenue North Widening design proposals received; award expected end of January/early February. - US Hwy 17 Bypass/Robert Grissom Parkway Interchange design award in process. - Barefoot Landing Bridge Replacement IGA in progress. - Mass Transit and Bus Maintenance Complex funding agreements approved. - RIDE 4 Revenues (May–Nov 2025): Actual $80,415,376.29 vs. projected $82,150,316.98 – a deficit of $1,734,940.69. Staff noted projections were aggressive and that the 25-year program would see fluctuations. - Traffic Counts on Middle Ridge Avenue Extension: ADT ranged from 5,500 to 8,000 in different sections (data collected Jan 22–25, 2026); highest count near Burning Ridge was 8,400 ADT. Public Roadway Dedication Policy – Survey Results (Brandon Elvis, presented by David Gilreath) - Purpose: At Councilman Howard’s request, staff surveyed other counties in South Carolina and across the U.S. regarding acceptance of new roads into county maintenance systems. - South Carolina Findings: Most surveyed counties (Horry, Georgetown, Anderson, Marion, Richland, Charleston, Beaufort, Spartanburg, York, Greenville) maintain unpaved roads and accept new roads. Georgetown and Anderson temporarily do not accept new roads due to resource constraints. - North Carolina: Unlike South Carolina, North Carolina counties are statutorily prohibited from owning/maintaining roads (since 1931); all public roads are maintained by NCDOT or municipalities. Brunswick County, for example, cannot accept new roads. - U.S. Counties: All surveyed (e.g., Hays County, TX; Sarasota County, FL; Monterey County, CA) accept new roads and maintain both paved and unpaved roads. - Staff Recommendation: Continue accepting roads that meet county standards. Gilreath emphasized that roads are a core government function and private maintenance is often inadequate. - Discussion: Councilman Anderson raised the possibility of encouraging the state legislature to raise the gas tax to better fund road maintenance. The committee agreed to consider a future resolution on the matter. Resolutions Acceptance of Roads into Horry County Maintenance System (David Gilreath) - Chestnut Farms: Joyce Drive, Letha Drive, Joseph Street, Lucy Drive – 0.75 miles. Warranty cash bond provided. - Hidden Pines Phase 1: Azalea Bloom Avenue, Augusta Green Way, Albatross Way – 0.67 miles. Warranty letter of credit provided. - Ridgefield Phase 4: Courtina Way, Ridgeford Drive – 0.38 miles. Warranty cash bond. - Ridgefield Phase 5: Appleridge Drive, Ridgeford Drive – 0.29 miles. Warranty cash bond. - Ridgefield Phase 6: Appleridge Drive, Fair Ridge Way – 0.30 miles. Warranty cash bond. - Ridgefield Phase 7: Ridgeford Drive, Fair Ridge Way – 0.33 miles. Warranty cash bond. - Total: 3.72 miles of road and drainage accepted into the county system. All roads were constructed to Horry County standards and inspected by the Engineering Department. The committee voted unanimously to approve all six resolutions. Resolution Supporting I-73 and Naming as “President Donald J. Trump Highway” (David Jordan) - Original Resolution: Supported construction of I-73 in South Carolina and naming the corridor the “President Donald J. Trump Highway.” Noted that a federal permit was issued in 2017 under President Trump, and that Horry County pledged $450 million in RIDE 4 funds for its portion. - Discussion: Councilman Anderson expressed concern about naming without guaranteed funding. He proposed an amendment to tie the naming to receipt of federal funding during the current (Trump) administration. - Amendment: Motion to amend the resolution to support naming only if funding is received during President Trump’s term. The amendment was seconded and approved. - Vote on Amended Resolution: The resolution as amended passed unanimously. Ordinance Amendment to Official Map – Carolina Bays Parkway from Highway 707 to Highway 17 Bypass (David Gilreath) - Purpose: To preserve a 300-foot right-of-way corridor for the future extension of Carolina Bays Parkway (Highway 31) from Highway 707 to Highway 17 Bypass, including the associated interchange. The area is currently largely undeveloped but faces imminent development pressure. - Discussion: The ordinance will allow the county to protect the corridor now, reducing future acquisition costs. The corridor is also being considered as a potential segment of the Highway 22 extension. The committee voted unanimously to approve the first reading of the ordinance. Key Outcomes - RIDE Program Updates: Noted for information; no formal action taken. - Road Dedication Policy Survey: Reviewed; no action required at this time. Staff will continue to accept roads meeting standards. - Road Acceptance Resolutions: All six subdivisions (Chestnut Farms, Hidden Pines Ph 1, Ridgefield Ph 4, 5, 6, 7) approved unanimously. - I-73 Resolution: Approved as amended, requiring federal funding during the Trump administration for the naming to take effect. - Official Map Amendment: First reading approved; further readings will be required for final adoption. - Next Meeting: March 24, 2026, at 3:00 PM. The committee will now meet on a bimonthly basis. - Adjournment: The meeting adjourned at approximately 3:30 PM.

The Horry County Administration Committee met on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, at 1:00 PM in the County Council Conference Room. Chairman Tyler Servant presided. The committee reviewed financial updates, approved several resolutions, and conducted routine business. All votes were unanimous unless otherwise noted. Consent Calendar - Agenda and Minutes: The agenda was approved as presented. The minutes of the December 2, 2025, meeting were approved. Public Comments & Testimony - No public input was offered. New Business - Council on Aging Update (Elaine Gore): Ms. Gore reported that in 2025, the Council on Aging served 58,305 congregate meals and 63,305 home-delivered meals. They provided 65,628 miles of medical transportation, giving 1,863 rides. Homemaker services totaled 3,652. She noted that no senior was turned away for any service in 2025. The committee expressed appreciation. - Financial Update – December 2025 (Jamie Norman): Ms. Norman presented financials for the six months ending December 31, 2025. General fund revenues were $162.8 million (56.4% of annual budget), exceeding the 50% mark, while expenditures were $127.2 million (43.3%). General fund total revenues were 41% higher than the prior year; expenditures were 14% higher. Property tax collections reached 65.5% of budget. Special revenue funds showed positive net changes: Fire fund +$9.9 million, Road Maintenance +$5.4 million, Stormwater +$7.6 million, Recreation +$2 million, Waste Management Recycling +$6.9 million. - Administrator’s Contingency: No expenditures have been made; the $150,000 balance remains unchanged. - Independent Audit Review (Action to Delegate Auditor): The committee reviewed an Independent Auditor Performance Questionnaire for Mauldin & Jenkins. Staff recommended exercising a one-year option in the contract for the FY2026 audit. The committee approved the recommendation. - Audit Charter Review: Staff reported no new industry guidance and recommended no changes to the charter. The committee accepted the review. - GFOA Triple Crown Award: Shannon Todd announced that Horry County received the GFOA Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting for FY2024, securing the “Triple Crown” for the second consecutive year. Only three counties in South Carolina (Greenville, Charleston, and Horry) received this honor. Action Items - A. Resolution to Designate ARPA Project for Domestic Violence Shelter: The committee approved allocating $500,000 in ARPA interest funding to the Family Justice Center of Georgetown and Horry County to complete construction of a domestic violence shelter. This supplements a prior $750,000 award and a $500,000 matching grant from the Chapin Foundation. - B. Resolution Directing Administrator to Pursue Congressionally Directed Funding: The committee approved submitting six projects for FY2027 federal appropriations: Myrtle Beach Runway Reconstruction, SC 22 Extension, Conway River Crossing, SC 31 – Carolina Bays Parkway, Conway Perimeter Road, and Horry County Longs Radio Communications Tower. - C. Resolution Authorizing Virtual Meetings for Library Board of Trustees: The committee approved allowing the Horry County Library Board of Trustees to hold meetings virtually, with the public meeting still hosted in Conway, to accommodate members traveling over an hour. - D. Ordinance Authorizing $5,000,000 General Obligation Bonds for Windy Hill EMS Station: The committee approved issuing up to $5 million in short-term general obligation bonds to finance the Windy Hill EMS station project, to be fully repaid by the end of FY2026. - E. Ordinance to Amend FY2026 Budget for Bond Payments: The committee approved an increase of $346,331 in principal expenditures in the Capital Planning Fund to align the budget with a revised debt amortization schedule for the Windy Hill EMS bonds. - F. Community Benefit Fund Requests: The committee approved multiple requests after a motion by Chairman Servant to reduce one item (Aynor High School varsity baseball) from $1,500 to $750. Approved requests included: - Aynor High School Baseball (District 11) – $750 - Conway Hot Shots (District 11) – $1,500 - Student Angler League Tournament Trail (District 11) – $1,500 - Waccamaw EOC (District 2) – $2,000 for teacher/employee of the year program - Grand Strand Christian Church (Districts 4,6,7,8,11, Chairman) – $12,500 for Annie’s Place Senior Apartments Old Business & Announcements - No old business. The next meeting is scheduled for March 24, 2026. - The meeting adjourned after approximately 40 minutes.