Public Meetings - Horry County, South Carolina

Chairman Johnny Gardner delivered the State of the County address, highlighting progress in public safety, infrastructure, and economic development. The council approved a consent agenda, recognized employees with 30+ years of service, received a $700,000 check from Horry Electric Cooperative, and set committee assignments for 2026. Public comment focused on a proposed landfill expansion in Starrett Swamp and the Eagle Trace Special Tax District. Council also held second readings for the Imagine 2040 Comprehensive Plan update and a vending machine concession agreement at Myrtle Beach International Airport. Consent Calendar - Approved the consent agenda unanimously, which included third readings for multiple zoning ordinances (Ords 64-2025, 65-2025, 99-2025, 100-2025, 107-2025 through 115-2025), group housing, towing regulation, and first readings for PDD amendments and other zoning map changes. (Details per agenda; no debate on the floor.) Public Comments & Testimony - Amelia Wood (Winyah Rivers Alliance) and Preston Kelly (Waccamaw Riverkeeper) opposed the proposed landfill expansion that would impact 102.4 acres of wetlands in Starrett Swamp. They argued that filling wetlands removes natural flood protection, violates a 1993 covenant, and poses contamination risks to the Waccamaw River. They urged the council to halt the process, conduct a transparent alternative analysis, and enact a local wetland ordinance. - Tandra Hodum (Eagle Trace resident) challenged the creation of the Eagle Trace Special Tax District, stating that many homeowners signed a petition without understanding it would raise property taxes by $2,000–$4,000 per year for 15 years. She noted that the millage rate was set at 300 mills without proper community notice, and that the county’s proposed straw poll lacks safeguards. She requested the council abolish the district. Presentations & Recognitions - Horry Electric Cooperative presented a $700,000 check from utility tax credit funds for economic development, with an additional $43,000 from Central Electric. Chairman Gardner noted the funds will support a premier rural civic center on Hardwick Road. - Employee Recognition: Tim Tyler (30 years, Assessor’s Office) and Lieutenant Judy Boyd (40 years, Horry County Sheriff’s Office) were honored for their service. Discussion Items - Standing Committee Assignments for 2026: Chairman Gardner announced committees: Administration (Chair Tyler Servant), Infrastructure & Regulation (Chair Al Allen), Public Safety (Chair Danny Hardee), and a revived Transportation Committee (Chair Dennis DiSabato). - Vote for Vice-Chairman: Councilman Dennis DiSabato nominated Tom Anderson; the motion passed unanimously. Anderson assumes the role of Vice-Chairman. - Second Reading – Ordinance 106-2025: Adopt the Horry County Comprehensive Plan Imagine 2040 five-year review, including the resilience element. No public comment; passed unanimously. - Second Reading – Ordinance 116-2025: Authorize a concession agreement with Compass Group USA, Inc. for food and beverage vending machines at Myrtle Beach International Airport (21.5% of gross revenue). No public comment; passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - The consent agenda, including all listed ordinances, was approved unanimously. - Ordinance 106-2025 (Comprehensive Plan update) and Ordinance 116-2025 (Airport vending concession) each passed second reading unanimously. - Committee assignments for 2026 were adopted as presented. - Tom Anderson was elected Vice-Chairman by unanimous vote. - No further action was taken on the landfill or Eagle Trace issues; the council noted public comments but did not schedule follow-up items during this meeting.

The Horry County Council held its regular meeting on December 9, 2025, in the Council Chambers, with Chairman Johnny Gardner presiding. The agenda listed a 6:00 p.m. start; the source meeting timestamp was 2025-12-09 11:00:00+00:00. Council heard public input, approved the consent calendar, recognized two mayors and a long-serving employee, conducted second readings and public hearings on multiple zoning and ordinance items, and referred one ordinance back to committee for minor adjustments. Consent Calendar - Approved the consent agenda en bloc by voice vote, including: - Third reading of Ordinance 93-2025 (Imagine 2040 future land use map amendment for PINS 29000000049 and 29000000050 from Rural to Rural Communities) and Ordinance 94-2025 (rezoning a 64.4-acre portion from Forest Agriculture/MSF 10 to Multi-Residential District MRD 1). - Third reading of Ordinance 105-2025 updating the standardized business license class schedule. - First reading of Ordinance 116-2025 authorizing the county administrator to execute a concession agreement with Compass Group USA, Inc. for food and beverage vending machines at Myrtle Beach International Airport. - Resolutions accepting road/drainage dedications: R-158-2025 for Jordanville Farms Phase 4 and R-159-2025 for Sessions Point Phase 2. - R-160-2025 supporting RJ Corman’s CRISI grant application and authorizing a local match of up to $1,500,000. - R-161-2025 designating the Horry County Emergency Operations and Communications Center. - R-162-2025 revising the Horry County Employee Guidelines. - R-163-2025 awarding Horry County HOME Consortium funding totaling $1,020,004, including $360,000 to Habitat for Humanity of Horry County, $400,000 to Eastern Carolina Housing Organization, and $260,004 to Habitat for Humanity of Georgetown County. - R-166-2025 increasing jury pay from $15.00 to $25.00 per day and mileage reimbursement from $0.205 to $0.342 per mile. - R-167-2025 revising the Eagle Trace Special Tax District inter-fund loan to a draw-down structure. - Community Benefit Fund allocations totaling $36,000 to Love 4 Paws Rescue, Coastal Carolina Sertoma, American Legion Post 40, Tidal Paws Animal Rescue, All 4 Paws, Kind Keeper, Inc., and Beach Ball Classic. Public Comments & Testimony - Michael Tomkinson of Little River, District 1, raised concerns about code violations, unpermitted renovations, non-resident vehicle tags, a red-flagged shipping container that remained on a property, a person living in a garage, and alleged undocumented residents in apartment buildings. He asked the county to enforce existing rules. - Tandra Hodum, an Eagle Trace resident, opposed the Eagle Trace Special Tax District. She stated the district was created through a petition with 39 signatures from 52 parcels, without a referendum, and that many homeowners were not told it would create a tax district. She said tax bills increased by approximately $2,000 to $4,000, the ordinance set the millage at 300 mills while earlier estimates were around 255 mills, and some Habitat for Humanity homeowners were told they would be exempt. She presented a new petition with 27 signatures asking council to invalidate or unwind the district. - Kathleen Hodum, also an Eagle Trace resident, said she signed a paper to get roads fixed but did not know it involved a tax increase. She stated her taxes rose from about $700 to $2,700, that the increase would total roughly $30,000 over 15 years, and asked for a valid community vote or dissolution of the district. Chairman Gardner indicated the January community meeting would help determine what the community wants. - During the public hearing for Ordinances 64-2025 and 65-2025, Michelle Smith of Ashley Circle expressed opposition to the proposed 99-home development, citing flooding risk, the area known as “Camp Swamp,” blocked evacuation routes, and a lack of flood control. She said she had 250 names against the development. Patricia Cannon Macaulay spoke about her great-great-great grandfather buried in Pond Field Cemetery on the property and asked that the cemetery be protected and maintained. - During the public hearing for Ordinance 114-2025, Pam Lopez of Log Cabin Road expressed concerns about the approval process and buffers, stating her 10-home subdivision would see 106 of the 111 proposed homes placed behind it. She said the developer had promised to put something in writing about privacy trees. Albert Libera asked for a larger buffer on Log Cabin Road. Presentations and Resolutions - Barry Spivey announced that the fifth police precinct’s software implementation had occurred as planned, making the fifth precinct operational and answering calls under new sectors. - Resolution R-164-2025 recognizing Marilyn Hatley, outgoing Mayor of North Myrtle Beach, was approved by voice vote. Mayor Hatley thanked Council for the partnership and noted it was bittersweet to step down after 24 years as mayor. - Resolution R-165-2025 recognizing Brenda Bethune, Mayor of Myrtle Beach, was approved by voice vote. Mayor Bethune thanked Council and said she would encourage the incoming mayor to continue the collaborative relationship. - Sheila McKella was recognized for more than 35 years of service with Horry County Government, including 25 years in the treasurer’s office. She thanked Council and credited her faith and family. Ordinance Readings and Discussion - Ordinances 64-2025 and 65-2025 (Hwy 66, LLC / Ashley Circle): Council approved an amendment to Ordinance 64-2025, then passed the second reading of both ordinances as amended. These approve a development agreement and rezone PIN 27100000058 from Limited Forest Agriculture (LFA) to Multi-Residential District-Preservation (MRD-P) for a maximum of 99 single-family detached homes, with a 35-foot height limit, 12,000-square-foot minimum lots, perimeter buffers, and improvements to Ashley Circle. During discussion, Councilman Hardee said the proposal had been reduced from more than 500 homes to under 100. Councilman DiSabato noted the property could yield about 68 lots by right versus 99 under the MRD-P plan with enhanced buffers and water retention. - Second readings of individual rezoning ordinances (all approved by voice vote): - Ord 99-2025: Clovis Belanger – rezone 0.95 acres in Conway from SF 20 to MSF 20. - Ord 100-2025: John Pinto for Pinto Partners, LLC – rezone 1.9 acres in Socastee from MSF 6, SF 6, and HC to RE 4 for a trade shop. - Ord 107-2025: William Oram for Carolina Real Estate Holdings, LLC – rezone 8.14 acres from MHP to MHP and MSF 6 for 43 manufactured homes and one stick-built home. - Ord 108-2025: Diamond Shores for Master Home Builder, LLC – rezone a 1.17-acre portion from SF 20 to SF 10 for five single-family homes. - Ord 109-2025: Karl T. Gore – rezone 1.6 acres in Nichols from FA to MSF 20 for property-line adjustments. - Ord 110-2025: Thomas & Hutton for Eastern Shores Realty Holding, LLC – rezone 5.89 acres on Forestbrook Road from GR 6 to RE 4. - Ord 111-2025: Jason White for Dana C. Faircloth – rezone 1.64 acres near Conway from LFA to MSF 20. - Ord 112-2025: Jon D. McDonald – rezone 0.84 acres from MSF 20 to MSF 10. - Ord 113-2025: Thomas & Hutton for Saks & Company Inc. – rezone 12.42 acres from PUD to MRD 3 for 58 single-family in-common units. - Ord 114-2025: Antioch Farms, LLC – rezone 73.3 acres on Log Cabin Road in Loris from FA to MRD 1 for 111 single-family homes. After public comments, Councilman Causey encouraged the applicant to continue working with residents on buffer improvements before third reading. - Ord 115-2025: Earthworks for Sampit River Investments, LLC – amend the Jones Road PDD for 16 townhomes, 2 duplexes, and a mini warehouse facility on 16.81 acres. - Ordinance 101-2025 (group housing): Second reading and public hearing were held; no public comment. The ordinance amends Articles II and XIV of the Zoning Ordinance related to group housing definitions, including Fair Housing Act compliance, and aligns uses such as community care facilities, halfway facilities, and inpatient drug/alcohol treatment facilities with appropriate zoning districts. Approved by voice vote. - Ordinance 102-2025 (MA1 permitted uses): Second reading and public hearing were held; no public comment. The ordinance adds uses such as repair services, community and personal services, fitness centers, laundromats, high bulk retail, gas stations, and mixed industrial uses to the Limited Manufacturing and Industrial (MA1) District. Approved by voice vote. - Ordinance 103-2025 (consensual towing): Second reading and public hearing were held; no public comment. The ordinance reduces regulation for businesses performing only consensual towing by exempting them from storage lot requirements, certain insurance requirements, and wrecker inspections. Approved by voice vote. - Ordinance 104-2025 (prohibiting camping on county property): Second reading and public hearing were held; no public comment. Council first passed the second reading, then voted to refer the ordinance to the Infrastructure & Regulation Committee for minor tweaks and boundary adjustments. The original ordinance would prohibit camping on county-owned property, amend boat landing rules, and enact rules of conduct for county parks and facilities. Key Outcomes - The consent agenda and all resolutions on the agenda were approved by voice vote. - Second readings were passed for Ordinances 64, 65, 99, 100, 107, 108, 109, 110, 111, 112, 113, 114, 115, 101, 102, 103, and 104. - Ordinance 104-2025 was referred to the Infrastructure & Regulation Committee after second reading for minor revisions. - Third readings for most ordinances are scheduled for the January 6, 2026, regular council meeting. - The next regular council meeting is January 6, 2026, at 6:00 p.m., where committees for 2026 will be organized. - The meeting was adjourned in memory of the individuals listed during memorial dedications, including Judy Roberts, Angel Woodard, Annie Chiles, Elise Dix, Russell Wise, Todd Howard, Charles McKinney, Tim McCormick, Janet Hardwick, Timmy Webb, Barry Williams, Merle H. Holmes, Bobby H. Porter, Alyssa Elaine Golly, Francis J. Singleton, C. Saxena, Patrol Officer Henry H. Scarborough, Larry Filiberti, and Steve Luton. Votes were by voice vote; no roll-call tallies were reported in the source transcript.

The Horry County Administration Committee met on Tuesday, December 2, 2025, at 1:00 PM in the County Council Conference Room. Chairman Tyler Servant presided. The committee approved the agenda and the minutes from the October 28, 2025 meeting unanimously. Key topics included the annual independent audit report, a financial update for October 2025, and several resolutions. Two items were deferred to the next meeting. Public Comments & Testimony No members of the public provided input. Discussion Items - Independent Auditor Required Communications: Grant Davis presented the fiscal year 2025 audit results. The county received an unmodified (clean) opinion. No material weaknesses or significant deficiencies in internal controls were noted, and no instances of noncompliance were found. Total revenues across all funds were $875 million, expenditures $592 million, ending equity $2.8 billion. The general fund had a fund balance of $203 million, with $69 million unassigned. The federal single audit is pending the final compliance supplement, but no issues have been identified in the three major programs audited. - Financial Update – October 2025: Jamie Norman reported that for the four months ending October 31, 2025, total revenues across all funds were $88 million (65% from the general fund) and expenditures $111 million (76% from the general fund). General fund revenues were $57.2 million (20% of annual budget) and expenditures $84.2 million (28.7% of budget). Property tax revenues are expected in December and January. All special revenue funds are performing as expected. - Resolution to Revise Horry County Employee Guidelines: Patrick Owens presented proposed revisions including policies on covert recording, hiring and selection, a return to a single paid time off (PTO) bank, and ethics reporting. After discussion, the committee voted to defer the paid leave portion to the next meeting for further review. The remaining revisions were approved unanimously. Key Outcomes - Resolution to Revise Employee Guidelines (amended): Approved except for the paid leave portion, which was deferred. - Resolution Authorizing Payout of COVID-19 Leave Bank Hours: Deferred to the next administration committee meeting. - Resolution to Award Horry County HOME Consortium Funding: Approved unanimously. Awards: $400,000 to Eastern Carolina Housing Organization (tenant-based rental assistance for 50 households), $360,000 to Habitat for Humanity of Horry County (6 new construction townhomes), and $260,004 to Habitat for Humanity of Georgetown County (2 new homes). - Resolution Recognizing Mayor Marilyn Hatley: Approved unanimously to recognize her public service and conservation leadership. - Resolution Recognizing Mayor Brenda Bethune: Approved unanimously to recognize her public service and preservation efforts. - Resolution to Increase Jury Pay and Mileage Reimbursement: Approved unanimously. Jury pay increased from $15 to $25 per day (67% increase) and mileage reimbursement from $0.205 to $0.342 per mile, effective immediately. - Resolution Amending Inter-Fund Loan Structure for Eagle Trace Special Tax District: Approved unanimously. Changed from a lump-sum to a draw-down loan with interest on drawn amounts only. - Community Benefit Fund Requests: Approved unanimously. Allocations included: Love 4 Paws Rescue ($4,000), Coastal Carolina Sortoma ($7,000), American Legion Post 40 ($4,000), Tidal Paws Animal Rescue ($2,000), All 4 Paws ($2,000), Kind Keeper Inc. ($2,000), and Beach Ball Classic ($15,000).

The Infrastructure & Regulation Committee of Horry County Council met on December 2, 2025, at 9:00 a.m. in the County Council Conference Room. Chairman Al Allen presided. The meeting covered discussion on asphalt and concrete batch plant regulations, acceptance of subdivision roads into the county maintenance system, support for a rail infrastructure grant with a $1.5 million local match, renaming of the emergency operations center, and zoning ordinance amendments. The committee also advanced an ordinance to allow vending machine concessions at Myrtle Beach International Airport and received departmental reports. Public Comments & Testimony - No public input was received. Discussion Items - Update on Asphalt and/or Concrete Batch/Bulk Plants (Raj Myana): Deputy Director Myana presented an overview of current regulations for temporary and permanent batch plants in Horry County. There are currently three active asphalt plants and 14 concrete plants. Permanent plants require zoning in MA-3 or HI districts and must meet conditions including a 550-foot setback, enclosure of all operations, dust-free roads, and landscaping. Staff suggested reviewing the future land use map to create more economic development centers or industrial corridors along major state roads, and reconsidering the requirement for all plants to be enclosed, as that is cost-prohibitive. Committee members expressed the need to reduce road construction costs for upcoming RIDE IV projects and to increase competition. Chairman Allen directed staff to come back with recommendations on amending the zoning ordinance to allow more batch plant locations. The direction was approved by consensus. Resolutions - Acceptance of Roads into County Maintenance System: The committee approved, on a motion by Mr. Anderson seconded by Mr. Gardner, the acceptance of roads in Jordanville Farms Phase 4 (Country Grove Way, Strawberry Field Way, Silage Hill Run Drive) and Sessions Point Phase 2 (McCorkle Place) into the county maintenance system. Discussion included concerns over long-term funding for road maintenance; Mr. Howard suggested an incremental fee increase, while Chairman Allen noted the need to revisit batch plant zoning to lower material costs. The motion passed unanimously. - Support for RJ Corman’s CRISI Grant Application: The committee approved a resolution supporting RJ Corman’s application for a Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements (CRISI) grant and authorizing a local match of up to $1,500,000. The project would replace 13,000 feet of rail, 25,500 ties, and multiple crossings in Horry County. The total project cost is $16 million, with $11.2 million from federal funds, $3.4 million from RJ Corman, and the county’s $1.4 million match. Discussion included adding specific crossings (e.g., 12th Avenue, Lakeland) and exploring passenger rail potential. The motion passed unanimously. - Designation of Emergency Operations and Communications Center: The committee approved a resolution renaming the former Randall S. Webster Emergency Operations and Communications Center as the Horry County Emergency Operations and Communications Center. The motion passed unanimously. Ordinances - Amendment to Highway 17 South Overlay Zone (Section 809): The committee considered an ordinance amending Article VIII, Section 809 to establish additional design requirements for gas stations/convenience stores within the overlay (from Surfside Beach to Georgetown County line). Requirements include 75% brick/stone/concrete facades, integrated fuel canopies, and gable/hip roofs. The language mirrors the recently adopted Highway 707 overlay. Discussion included a request from Councilman Anderson to also address noise from car washes. The committee voted to amend the ordinance to include a 5% mixed-use requirement (instead of the staff-recommended 10%) for Planned Development Districts earlier in the meeting, but this item was not affected. The motion to approve the Highway 17 South Overlay amendment passed unanimously. - Concession Agreement for Vending Machines at MYR Airport: The committee approved an ordinance authorizing the County Administrator to execute a five-year concession agreement with Compass Group USA Inc. (Canteen) for food and beverage vending machines at Myrtle Beach International Airport. Two locations (Gate A4 hold room and near Gate B1) will each have two beverage and one food machine. The county will receive 21.5% of gross revenues. The airport’s terminal expansion was noted as completed on time and under budget, using only airport revenues and federal grants, not property taxes. The motion passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - The committee directed staff to review and bring back recommendations on amending the zoning ordinance for batch plants to encourage more competition and lower road construction costs. - Staff was also asked to explore options for road maintenance funding, including incremental fee increases, and to study how other counties (e.g., in North Carolina) handle subdivision roads. - The next meeting date is to be determined.

The Horry County Council met at approximately 6:00 p.m. on November 18, 2025 in Council Chambers, with Chairman Johnny Gardner presiding. The invocation was given by Tyler Servant and the Pledge of Allegiance was led by Mark Causey. Council approved the agenda contents and the minutes of the October 7, 2025 regular meeting, then unanimously approved the consent agenda. Consent Calendar - Approved by unanimous consent: third-reading rezonings for Ord 92-2025 (G3 Engineering/Normandy Corp & Creek Associates, staff disapproval, Planning Commission 8:1), Ord 95-2025 (Bryan Pearson), Ord 96-2025 (Rocquellia Chanta Bell), and Ord 97-2025 (Tidelands Health/Georgetown Memorial Hospital). - Approved first-reading rezonings for Ord 99, 100, 107, 108, 109, 110, 111, 112, 113, 114, and 115-2025, including multiple residential and commercial map amendments. - Approved first reading of text amendments: Ord 101-2025 (group housing definitions and Fair Housing Act compliance), Ord 102-2025 (uses in the Limited Manufacturing/Industrial MA1 district), Ord 103-2025 (less regulation of consensual towing), and Ord 104-2025 (prohibiting camping on county property and enacting park/boat landing rules). - Approved road/drainage dedications for Clear Pond Tract I/J/K Phase 2, Eden Springs Phases 1 and 2, and Carrington Woods (R-143, R-144, R-145, R-153). - Approved fund transfers: $750,000 from CIP Inflationary Contingency to IT Computer Replacement (R-146); $750,000 from CIP Contingency to the Police Lab project (R-147); and $1,200,000 from Development Impact Fees/Lifecycle funds to the North Myrtle Beach Convenience Center (R-157). - Approved R-148 allowing continued mobile food vendor operations at the Government and Justice Center; R-152 declaring a retiring officer's service weapon surplus; and R-154 modifying Recycling Convenience Center schedules effective January 1, 2026, adding Easter Sunday to the holiday schedule. - Approved Community Benefit Fund allocations: $40,000 to Public Safety Division, $1,500 to Longs Volunteers, $10,000 to North Myrtle Beach Area Historical Museum, and $2,000 to Spokes of Hope. - Confirmed board appointments: Dr. Marvin Keene and Blakley Roof to Coast RTA, and Ben Burroughs to the Historic Preservation Commission. Public Comments & Testimony - James Millward described eight flat tires this year, blamed debris from recycling centers, and proposed using juvenile community-service workers to assist at recycling centers and magnetic sweeping to find screws/staples; he asked whether the county would support such a program. Chairman Gardner responded that the county already has a related program and that staff would discuss expansion. - Stephanie Chiapetta criticized the Imagine 2040 review and rezoning trends, saying the county and planning commission are "selling out the rural nature" of Horry County and are "owned by the developers." She cited SCDOT funding shortages for roads, asked why Horry County cannot impose a temporary halt on rezoning for large-tract development like Mount Pleasant, and concluded "it should be about people, not profit." Presentations & Resolutions - Brent Carey, watershed planner, presented the Horry County Oyster Stewardship Program, describing more than 400 manufactured wire reefs, the largest man-made oyster reef in South Carolina, and about 7,000 oysters per basket. Note: the written agenda resolution stated an estimated 133 million gallons filtered per day, while the presentation stated 210 million gallons per day. - Resolution R-156-2025 recognized the 2025 Horry Soil and Water Conservation District Essay Contest winners: fifth grader Kaislee Blanton of Green Sea Floyds Elementary and seventh grader Kyleigh Sessions of Myrtle Beach Middle School. The contest dates to 1943 and draws about 5,600 student participants annually. The resolution passed unanimously. - Shane Willoughby, chairman of the Horry Soil and Water Conservation District, presented the district's 2025 Conservation Service Award to Chairman Johnny Gardner. Willoughby also noted the district's partnership with Horry County Stormwater helped repair more than 1,300 failing septic systems over the past 10 years. - Brian Piasik of Coast RTA presented the Transportation Association of South Carolina's 2025 "Making the Difference in Transit" award to the Horry County RIDE 4 Committee. He announced that Senator Graham's office had awarded $25.5 million for Coast RTA's bus operations/maintenance facility and transit center in Myrtle Beach. - Council recognized long-serving county employees: Deputy Bobby Frazier (40 years), Sharon Lilly (35 years), and Deputy Chief Lance Winburn (40 years). Reading of Ordinances - Third Reading, Ord 80-2025, Highway 707 Overlay Zone amendment: Council first approved an amendment contained in the meeting materials, then unanimously approved the ordinance as amended. The revised overlay includes enhanced landscaping/buffer standards and new gas station/convenience store design requirements. - Second Reading/Public Hearing, Ord 93-2025 and Ord 94-2025: Council unanimously approved the future land use map amendment from Rural to Rural Communities and the related 64.4-acre rezoning (PINS 29000000049 & 29000000050) from FA & MSF 10 to MRD 1 for the Shelly Farm conceptual plan with 124 single-family homes. No public comments were offered. - Second Reading/Public Hearing, Ord 105-2025: Council unanimously approved updating the county business license tax schedule to the latest standardized state class schedule, effective January 1, 2026. No public comments were offered. - First Reading, Ord 64-2025 and Ord 65-2025: Council approved the development agreement with Hwy 66, LLC and Equity Trust Company Custodian FBO Mark Philip Karavan and the related rezoning of PIN 27100000058 from LFA to MRD-P (Boyd Tract). The amended proposal allows 99 single-family detached homes on minimum 12,000 sq ft lots, with a 35-foot height limit, perimeter buffers, cemetery preservation, and Ashley Circle/SC 66 intersection improvements. After a point of order, Council re-voted on the ordinances as amended; both passed unanimously. - First Reading, Ord 106-2025: Heather Davis of Planning & Zoning presented the Imagine 2040 Comprehensive Plan Five-Year Review, including the new resilience element. The review used a public survey with 799 responses, open houses in August 2025, and a 30-day comment period from September 30 to October 31, 2025. Council unanimously approved first reading; second reading is scheduled for January 6, 2026 and third reading for January 20, 2026. Key Outcomes - Consent agenda approved unanimously. - Ord 80-2025 approved on third reading as amended unanimously. - Ord 93-2025 and 94-2025 approved on second reading unanimously; third reading scheduled for December 9, 2025. - Ord 105-2025 approved on second reading unanimously; third reading scheduled for December 9, 2025. - Ord 64-2025 and 65-2025 approved on first reading as amended unanimously; second reading scheduled for December 9, 2025. - Ord 106-2025 approved on first reading unanimously; second reading scheduled for January 6, 2026. - Upcoming meetings listed: Council meeting December 9 at 6 p.m.; I&R Committee December 2 at 9 a.m.; Administration Committee December 2 at 1 p.m.; joint HCG & HCS meeting November 21 at noon.

The Horry County Council held its fall planning retreat to prepare for the FY 2027 budget and next steps on growth, service levels, and strategic direction. County Administrator Barry Spivey, Finance Director Jamie Norman, consultant Bill Tomes, and department staff presented. Council directed staff to prepare a three-year one-mill property tax reduction, approved a resolution supporting the updated strategic plan, adjusted the Eagle Trace Special Tax District millage, and gave first reading to a state-required business license class schedule update. Meeting minutes were not provided. The agenda header lists Tuesday, November 4, 2025, but the meeting date used here is November 5, 2025, per the provided metadata. FY 2025 Financial Update - Jamie Norman presented unaudited FY 2025 results, noting the audit was still in progress and figures could change. - General fund revenues were $299 million, $25 million above budget and $28 million above prior year. Expenditures were $242 million, $25 million under budget. Other financing sources/uses totaled $15.5 million. The general fund added $42 million, ending FY 2025 with a $202.9 million fund balance. - Revenue increases: property taxes +$11.4 million, interest income just over $7 million, EMS fees almost $2 million. Personnel services were $10.4 million under budget, and combined savings in contractual services and supplies/materials were just over $12 million. - Special revenue funds: fire fund revenues $45 million, expenditures $42 million, +$4 million fund balance; road maintenance/CTC $25.3 million revenues and almost $23 million expenditures, +$2.6 million; beach renourishment +$2.4 million; stormwater $18.3 million revenues and $13.3 million expenditures, +$4.3 million; recreation $11.6 million revenues and $7.8 million expenditures, +$331,000; waste management almost $22 million revenues and $13 million expenditures, +$5.5 million. - Governmental funds overall added $165.8 million, ending at about $1.4 billion. Unassigned fund balances: general fund $69.2 million; fire $11.7 million; recreation $5.3 million; stormwater $6.4 million; waste management almost $11 million. - In discussion, council members asked about recreation fund capital transfers, CTC committee spending, Ride 2/Ride 4 funding, and the use of surplus fund balance. Staff said Ride 2 was essentially complete except for two right-of-way items tied to property issues. Strategic Plan Update - Consultant Bill Tomes described the process: interviews with each of the 12 council members, employee and department head surveys, and six facilitated staff sessions between February and September 2025. - Department head survey strengths: hardworking staff. Weaknesses: recruitment/retention, interdepartmental communication, and technology infrastructure. Employee survey showed lower scores on compensation, communication, and recognition. - Council member priorities included public safety personnel pay, managing growth, and Ride 4/road connectivity. - The proposed mission was: "We are committed to building a bright future for Horry County by delivering public services with excellence, protecting what makes our community special, and creating opportunities through progress and partnerships." - The proposed vision references a safe, healthy community respecting rural heritage, focusing on growth and economic diversification, and partnering to provide infrastructure for long-term sustainability. - Proposed core values were reduced to five, expressed through the "Horry Way" acronym: Character, Collaboration, Service, Caring, and Quality. - Four strategic focus areas were presented: community relations, employee relations and internal trust, growth and quality of life, and fiscal responsibility. Strategies included annual community surveys, quarterly town halls, "Gov on the Go" outreach, leadership pipelines, mentorship and job shadowing, recognition programs, internal communications upgrades, behavioral health partnerships, smart growth communication, and budget ownership scorecards. - Staff highlighted the new Department of Behavioral Services, the "Elevate Horry" process improvement program, and online business license routing as early examples. Growth, Service Level Needs, and Fiscal Outlook - Economic briefing: inflation was 2.9%, above the Federal Reserve target; the Fed funds rate was about 4.22–4.25% in September 2025, with a forecast of about a one-percentage-point drop by 2027–2028. Unemployment in Horry County was slightly above state and national averages, and the labor market remained tight. - Local government job gaps in South Carolina were projected to grow to as many as 10,000 positions by 2040. - Population: current estimate about 416,000 permanent residents. The state's adopted forecast of 2.4% annual growth would produce 473,000 by 2030, 533,000 by 2035, and 621,000 by 2042. Using the last five years' trend would produce 490,000 in 2030, 578,000 in 2035, and 728,000 in 2042. Staff said they are planning on the lower "blue line" trajectory. - To maintain the current service level of 7.92 employees per 1,000 residents with 3,383 approved positions, staff estimated about 91 additional positions per year, reaching 4,295 total employees within ten years and 2,419 public safety positions. Public safety's actual request was roughly double that. The county currently has 323 vacancies, concentrated in 911, police, fire rescue, and detention. - Revenue outlook: 2027 property tax revenues projected about 10% higher; the value of a mill was projected at about $4 million for 2026 and $4.37 million in 2027. Staff said they were not recommending a base millage increase for FY 2027. - Economically sensitive revenues: the 1.5% hospitality tax was flat to slightly down; the 1% hospitality tax was up 2.6%; business licenses were up 41% year-to-date and expected to finish up about 9%; code enforcement was down 11%; recording fees were up 9.6%; interest income was expected to beat budget by 12–13%; sales tax was essentially flat. - Needs discussed included EMS station and unit expansions/relocations; firefighter recruitment challenges and possible hybrid staffing; a consultant report on J. Reuben Long Detention Center; possible sixth police precinct; waste management convenience centers; public works and fleet facilities; recreation center and field timelines; airport terminal, runway, and passenger bridge needs; radio tower upgrades; and behavioral health/homeless services. - Detention center specifics: current average inmate population 863; projected 1,000 by 2030, nearly 1,150 by 2035, and 1,300 by 2040, with an 18% additional capacity factor for inmate separation requirements. The consultant's first phase would build a new housing unit with about 318 beds including medical and female housing, at roughly $90 million. Renovating the existing "bow tie" building was estimated at about $33 million; replacement was estimated at $84–102 million. The CIP includes a $60 million placeholder, and the public safety committee was expected to take up the report. - Fiscal options discussed included redoing the impact fee study, the eventual termination of the Air Force base TIF district and BNC multicounty business park, and a possible local option sales tax, which would provide a property tax credit and unrestricted revenue, with tourists paying a substantial share. Key Outcomes - Council reached consensus on a motion directing staff to prepare a plan to reduce the county millage by one mill per year for three years, for a total of three mills. The motion was seconded and approved by voice vote with no opposition. Council members framed it as giving money back to taxpayers while preserving capacity for public safety pay and growth needs; the county administrator noted the plan would have to balance one-time versus recurring funds. - Resolution R-149-2025 was approved unanimously, expressing support for the updated strategic plan and adopting the updated mission, vision, and values of Horry County Government. - Resolution R-151-2025 was approved unanimously, adjusting the Eagle Trace Special Tax District millage rate to zero for the 2025 tax year and amending FY 2026 Budget Ordinance 39-2025 to reduce related revenues and expenditures. The action was described as pausing the district while property owners are given an informal, non-binding poll in January 2026 to reconfirm whether they want the special tax district to proceed. The district covers a 52-lot subdivision whose roads were not built to county standards and were never turned over to the county. - First reading of Ordinance 105-2025 was approved unanimously, amending the county business license ordinance to adopt the latest state standardized business license class schedule. The state now determines business classifications and updates them every two years; the timing required three readings before December 31, 2025, with second and third readings planned for the November and December meetings. - No executive session was held. The retreat adjourned after the three action items.

The Horry County Public Safety Committee met on November 4, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. in the County Council Conference Room. The meeting was called to order by Chairman Danny Hardee, with an invocation by Jenna Dukes. The committee reviewed resolutions, received updates from the 911 and Emergency Management departments, and voted to reconsider a resolution limiting residential rezonings that increase density. Consent Calendar - The committee approved the agenda and the minutes from the October 14, 2025 meeting. (Motion by Tom Anderson, seconded; unanimous) - Resolution – Declaring a Service Weapon as Surplus Property for Retiring Officer Charles B. Powell: Approved unanimously. (Chief Leonhardt presented) - Resolution – Approving Allocation of Council Community Benefit Funds: $2,000 to the Hopeful Restoration Group (Folks of Hope) for an annual Christmas giveaway, with $1,000 from District 3 and $1,000 from District 10. Approved unanimously. (Ashley Carroll presented) Discussion Items - 911 Update (Renee Hardwick): Hardwick recognized two employees: Michelle Johnson as 911 Supervisor of the Year (SC NAPCA) and Ginger Day receiving the Palmetto Award. She reported a successful round‑robin test with neighboring centers (Berkeley, Beaufort, Charleston, Orangeburg) and cross‑state coordination with Palm County, Florida. The department has hired 20 new employees, though current staffing is 12 per shift (target 16). Training takes 16 weeks, and retention remains a challenge due to the demanding nature of the job. Hardwick expressed gratitude for council support in addressing staffing and mental health resources. - Emergency Management Update (Sam Hodge): Hodge provided a five-month overview since June 1, 2025. He introduced his team and noted that the department’s comprehensive emergency management plan is updated annually. The hazard mitigation plan was completed internally, saving approximately $200,000. Key activities included community engagement (preparedness events, church vulnerability assessments under the non-profit security grant program), training exercises (Myrtle Beach airport exercise with 18 agencies and 200 participants, Hurricane Jolene exercises, Skywarn training), and participation in committees (Brunswick Nuclear Task Force, state association mentoring). Upcoming events: winter weather preparedness, Operation Powerback (utility coordination in December), and a tsunami exercise (LANTEX 25) in November. Hodge highlighted the team’s receipt of the Agency of the Year award from the South Carolina Emergency Management Association. Key Outcomes - Reconsideration of Resolution to Limit Residential Rezonings: The committee voted to reconsider the resolution previously discussed in October, which aims to limit residential rezoning that increases density on parcels served by volunteer fire stations and ISO‑10 areas. The motion passed unanimously, allowing future discussion. - Department Reports: Written reports were provided in packets for Police, Fire/Rescue, Animal Care Center, Emergency Management, 911, Sheriff’s Office, and Detention Center. No questions were raised. - Next Meeting: Announced that the next meeting will likely be in early 2026 due to holiday scheduling. Note: The agenda item “Recognizing G. Scott Bellamy for his Service on the Public Defender Selection Panel” was postponed and not discussed.

Date: November 4, 2025 Time: 9:00 AM Location: County Council Conference Room The Infrastructure & Regulation Committee, chaired by Al Allen, met to discuss railroad infrastructure, road maintenance, solid waste operations, environmental stewardship, and zoning amendments. The meeting featured a presentation on the CRISI grant for rail improvements, debate on solid waste hours, and a split vote on Planned Development District (PDD) requirements. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public signed up to speak. Discussion Items - CRISI Grant Presentation – R.J. Corman Railroad: Adam Boyles presented a $16.04 million project to upgrade the Carolina Line, with $11.2 million in federal funds, $3.4 million from R.J. Corman, and a requested $1.41 million Horry County match. The project includes replacing crossings (French Collins Road, Winyah Road, Woodward Avenue), installing 25,500 ties, surfacing 133,600 feet, and replacing rail between MP 336.3 and MP 342. Councilmember Howard suggested redirecting county funds to repair the Intracoastal Waterway bridge (estimated at $500,000 to $2 million) to enable future passenger service. The committee requested a study on bridge repair costs and passenger rail feasibility. - Road Maintenance Funding: Councilmember Causey raised concerns about long-term funding for county roads, noting that current projections show adequate funding only until 2034. Councilmember Howard proposed gradually increasing the gas tax or exploring zoning changes for asphalt batch plants to reduce construction costs. Staff agreed to return with recommendations on batch plant ordinance amendments. - Comprehensive Plan 5-Year Review: Heather Davis presented Imagine 2040’s five-year update, including a new Resilience Element required by state law. The plan incorporated 799 survey responses and two public open houses. The committee forwarded the plan to County Council for adoption. Resolutions - Carrington Woods Road Acceptance: Approved unanimously to accept Duvall Street, Ridley Street, Carrington Woods Way, and Anders Street (0.66 miles) into the county maintenance system, with a three-year warranty. - Solid Waste Convenience Center Hours: Approved modification to close all centers at 6:00 PM (previously 7:00 PM) and add Easter Sunday as a holiday. The change was based on traffic counts showing only 6% of users in the last hour, with safety and recruitment cited as drivers. Effective January 2026. - Recognition of Oyster Stewardship Program: Unanimously passed a resolution celebrating the installation of over 400 manufactured wire reefs, filtering an estimated 133 million gallons of water daily. Next project planned at Cypress Avenue. - Essay Contest Winners: Recognized fifth-grade winner Kaislee Jane Blanton (Green Sea Floyds Elementary) and seventh-grade winner Kyleigh Sessions (Myrtle Beach Middle School) for the 82-year-old Horry Soil and Water Conservation District contest. Ordinances - Planned Development Districts (PDD) Amendment: The committee debated a proposed ordinance amending Articles II & III of the zoning code to require at least two residential uses and one commercial use, each comprising minimum 10% of buildable area. Developer Craig Wooten urged reducing the commercial minimum to 5%, arguing 10% was excessive for residential-focused projects. After discussion, the committee voted 9–2 to amend the ordinance to 5% for each use type, rejecting staff’s recommendation of 10%. The amended ordinance will proceed to Planning Commission and then to County Council. - Imagine 2040 Comprehensive Plan Adoption: Approved for forwarding to County Council with a recommendation for adoption, including the Resilience Element. Key Outcomes - CRISI Grant: No formal vote; committee directed staff to study bridge repair costs and passenger rail potential. - Batch Plants: Staff to return in December 2025 with recommendations to amend zoning to allow more asphalt batch plants. - Solid Waste Hours: Approved effective January 1, 2026; Easter Sunday closures added. - PDD Ordinance: Amended to 5% minimum per land use (instead of 10%), forwarded to Planning Commission. - Comprehensive Plan: Forwarded to County Council for adoption. - Next Meeting: December 2, 2025.

The Administration Committee met on October 28, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. to discuss financial updates, employee wellness recognition, updates on state privacy laws, and several fiscal resolutions. The committee unanimously approved all agenda items, including an ordinance updating the business license class schedule, two fund transfers for capital projects, a resolution to make the mobile food vendor pilot program permanent, and community benefit fund requests. Consent Calendar - Approval of the agenda and the minutes from the September 23, 2025, meeting passed unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - None. Discussion Items - Financial Update for September 2025: Jamie Norman reported that total revenues across all funds were $35.5 million, with 68% in the general fund. General fund revenues were $24 million (8.4% of the annual budget) and expenditures were $63.6 million (22% of the budget). Compared to the prior year, revenues increased 4.7% and expenditures increased 7.8%. All special revenue funds (fire, road maintenance, beach renourishment, stormwater, recreation, waste management) were performing as expected, with most revenues expected in the December–January property tax collection period. - 2025 Healthiest Employers of South Carolina: A representative from the county employee wellness committee announced that Horry County placed 12th in South Carolina for the Healthiest Employers award. They highlighted increased participation in wellness programs and expressed a goal of reaching the national top 100 next year. - South Carolina Privacy Laws Update: Marion Foxworth detailed the upcoming state privacy laws effective January 2026, which affect how the Register of Deeds handles public information online. He explained that the county will hide parcel identification numbers (PINs) from the public index and require a paid subscription (account/paywall) to access full records, meeting the law's exemption criteria. He also announced that the Register of Deeds office will begin accepting credit and debit cards on the following Monday. - Business License Class Schedule Update: An ordinance to amend Section 12.5-114 of the county code to update the business license class schedule, as required by state law every odd year. The changes affect approximately six codes with minimal impact. The presenter also noted the successful launch of a new online business license application. - Mobile Food Vendor Pilot Program: Randy Haldi reported that the pilot program allowing food trucks on county property has been successful, with 20 vendors approved. All feedback from vendors and employees has been positive. The committee approved a resolution to make the program permanent. Key Outcomes - Approved Ordinance: Unanimous approval of the ordinance to update the business license class schedule to the latest standardized version. - Approved Resolution: Unanimous approval of a resolution to transfer funds from the Capital Improvement Program (CIP) Inflationary Contingency Account to the Information Technology (IT) Computer Replacement Capital Account to cover inflationary increases. - Approved Resolution: Unanimous approval of a resolution to transfer funds from the CIP Contingency Account to the Police Lab Capital Project to fund additional costs associated with a new metal prefab building behind the ML Brown facility. - Approved Resolution: Unanimous approval of a resolution authorizing the county administrator to allow mobile food vendors on certain county property on a permanent basis. - Approved Community Benefit Fund Requests: Three requests were approved unanimously: - $40,000 from District 5 for the Public Safety Division to purchase message boards for roadways. - $1,500 from District 9 for Long Volunteers to provide supplies for the elderly, sick, and children. - $10,000 from District 9 for the North Morton Area History museum for advertising. - Next Meeting: The next Administration Committee meeting is scheduled for December 2, 2025.