Public Meetings - Horry County, South Carolina

Date: October 14, 2025 The Infrastructure & Regulation Committee met to discuss several agenda items including a CRISI grant presentation for the R.J. Corman railroad, an update on the Myrtle Beach International Airport terminal expansion, progress on landscape buffer ordinance amendments, and multiple resolutions and ordinances. Public input was heard from a long-time resident regarding open space preservation. The committee voted on several ordinances and resolutions, while other items were held for further discussion. Public Comments - Millie (long-time resident, age 86) spoke passionately about the loss of open space in her subdivision (Well Run) due to a tax sale. She urged the county to protect open space in perpetuity, prevent developers from re-zoning it, and require tree preservation for hurricane breaks and environmental health. She also requested that the county consider taking ownership of such spaces to avoid future tax issues. Discussion Items - CRISI Presentation – R.J. Corman Railroad (Adam Boyles, Ed Quillens, Tyler) The railroad has grown from 68 carloads in 2016 to an estimated 8,000–9,000 carloads in 2025, removing approximately 32,000 trucks from Horry County roads. The presentation focused on a $16 million infrastructure improvement project for the county-owned portion of the line (milepost 336 to 342), including replacing 100-year-old 85-pound rail, upgrading crossings, and surfacing track. The project would be funded 70% federal (CRISI grant) and 30% local match, with the county asked to provide 50% of the match for the county portion (approximately $1.5 million). The committee requested more time to review and asked staff to explore grant opportunities with the state and other partners. No formal vote was taken. - Status Update – MYR Terminal Expansion Project (Judi Olmstead) The terminal expansion is approximately four weeks from completion and three weeks ahead of schedule. Photos showed the wall of glass, electrochromic glazing, seating, and gate areas. The project is expected to have a $4.7 million budget savings, which the airport plans to use for renovating the ticketing-level restrooms and flooring (estimated $10 million total, with the balance from passenger facility charges). Spirit Airlines' uncertainty was noted, but the airport had its busiest August to date. - Update on Landscape, Buffer, and Tree Preservation Ordinance Amendments (Stevie Brown) Staff has held two productive meetings with developers, engineers, realtors, and council members. Key points discussed: buffer width requirements, vegetation standards, and implementation. The ordinance will focus on major single-family developments. Two more meetings are planned, and the goal is to bring the ordinance to Planning Commission, INR, and Council for approval. The committee emphasized the importance of inviting all council members to participate in the discussions to avoid surprises. Resolutions - Resolution to Accept Roads into County Maintenance System The committee approved (motion and second) the acceptance of roads in Clear Pond Tract I, J, & K Phase 2, Eden Springs Phase 1, and Eden Springs Phase 2 into the county maintenance system. A brief discussion occurred about the financial burden of maintaining 1,500+ miles of roads, with staff noting that the county budget is approximately $300,000 per mile for resurfacing (every 20–25 years). The committee asked staff to research other counties' approaches to private roads. - Resolution to Modify Hours of Operation at Solid Waste Convenience Centers Esther Murphy presented a proposal to close all centers at 5:30 PM (from the current 12-hour schedule) and to add Easter Sunday as a closed holiday. The proposal aimed to improve staffing and reduce out-of-county use. Committee members expressed concern about cutting off after-work access and suggested alternative hours (e.g., 7:30 AM or 8 AM to 6 PM). The motion was withdrawn, and the item will be brought back to the next INR meeting for further discussion. Ordinances - Ordinance Amending Articles II & XIV – Group Housing The ordinance clarifies group home definitions by creating four categories: group homes, community care facilities, halfway facilities, and inpatient drug/alcohol addiction treatment facilities. It also updates the definition of “family” to comply with the Fair Housing Act. The committee voted to move the ordinance forward (motion and second, all in favor). - Ordinance Amending Article II – Permitted Uses in MA1 District This ordinance expands allowed uses in the Limited Manufacturing and Industrial (MA1) district to include repair services, gyms, laundromats, high-voltage retail, and gas stations. The committee voted to approve (motion and second, all in favor). - Ordinance Amending Towing and Wrecker Services The ordinance creates a narrow exception for consensual towing (e.g., a car owner calling a tow truck to a repair shop), removing higher insurance requirements for non-rotational towing. It does not apply to non-consensual (predatory) towing. The committee voted to approve (motion and second, all in favor). - Ordinance to Prohibit Camping on County Property, Amend Boat Landing Rules, and Enact Park Rules The ordinance prohibits camping on all county-owned property, bans alcohol consumption and open display at boat landings, restricts nighttime use, and requires pets on leashes no longer than seven feet in parks (with an amendment to allow designated areas for off-leash). The committee approved the amendment and then the ordinance as amended (motion and second, all in favor). Key Outcomes - Approved: Road acceptance for three subdivisions (Clear Pond, Eden Springs Phase 1 & 2). - Approved: Group housing ordinance (clarifying definitions and fair housing compliance). - Approved: MA1 district use expansion. - Approved: Towing ordinance (consensual towing exemption). - Approved: Camping and park rules ordinance (with amendment for designated off-leash areas). - Deferred for further discussion: Solid waste center hours (to next INR meeting). - No formal action: CRISI grant request; staff will explore funding options. - Future action: Landscape buffer ordinance expected to be drafted after two more meetings. - Directive: Staff and legal counsel to look into eliminating duplicative historical review processes for buildings within municipalities.

The Horry County Council met in regular session at 6:00 p.m. on October 7, 2025, in Council Chambers in Conway, SC. Council deferred a Highway 707 overlay text amendment, approved a large consent agenda, heard a public complaint about leased-land rents, recognized two 35-year Sheriff's Office employees, and approved four rezoning ordinances on second reading. The meeting adjourned in memory of the individuals read during memorial dedications. Consent Calendar - Council unanimously approved the consent agenda as amended, including: - Third reading of Ordinances 83-2025 and 84-2025, changing the Imagine 2040 Future Land Use Map for PIN 26712040017 from Rural Communities to Suburban and rezoning the 1.5-acre Roper Lane property in Longs from Residential (MSF 10) to Retail with Accessory Outdoor Storage (RE 4). - Third reading of Ordinances 85-2025 and 86-2025, changing the Future Land Use Map for PIN 20300000018 from Rural to Rural Communities and rezoning the 44.36-acre Vaught Road/Hwy 129 property in Galivants Ferry from Forest Agriculture (FA) to Residential (SF 14.5). - Resolution R-135-2025 approving Horry County's application to the South Carolina Opioid Recovery Fund Board's Guaranteed Political Subdivision Subfund and appropriating $2,899,593.20 in opioid settlement funds to continue Harm Reduction, Jail Diversion and Reentry, Treatment Court, and Crisis Intervention Team programs in CY 2026. - Resolution R-136-2025 approving planning and design of excess county-owned property on Highway 90 for possible conveyance to the Horry County Community Land Trust. - Resolution R-138-2025 supporting the Future Interstate Highway Formula Program. - Resolution R-139-2025 approving the Waccamaw Regional Transit Authority FY2026 budget and authorizing the county administrator to release October and future payments. - Resolution R-140-2025 temporarily relieving the agricultural exemption filing deadline for PINs 29600000011 and 29610040009. - Resolution R-141-2025 ending the state of emergency declared by Emergency Ordinance 98-2025 on September 26, 2025. - Thirteen Community Benefit Fund allocations totaling $48,000 to organizations including GFWC North Myrtle Beach Women's Club, Beautify Carolina Forest, Aynor High School groups, Myrtle Beach Corvette Club, Carolina Forest Community Church, Habitat for Humanity of Horry County, Blue Star Mothers of Coastal Carolina, Spokes of Hope, Horry County Police Department, Horry County Behavioral Services, and Journey Church of Myrtle Beach. - Appointment of Bernadette Taylor to the Vereen Memorial Historical Garden Committee (District 1) and approval of the 2026 Regular Council Meeting Schedule. Public Comments & Testimony - Patricia Molly was signed up for public input but was not present. - Robert Vostasi, a Conway Plantation resident, said the 300-home park has been renamed Carolina Tides and is owned by Carlisle Investment Group, which he described as worth $2.2 billion. He said current leased-land rent is $475 per month, set to rise to $500 by January 1, while new tenants are charged $883 per month ($10,514 per year). He said 16 homes are for sale, and one neighbor spent $20,000 to move a manufactured home and sold it for $70,000 though it was worth $120,000. He argued leased land in Horry County is being exploited and asked where he could seek recourse. - Chairman Johnny Gardner responded that the county has no rent-control authority under state law, suggested the speaker might have a civil cause of action, and offered to discuss the lease after the meeting. Public input was then closed. Discussion Items - Sheriff's Office 30-plus-year service recognition: Sheriff Thompson recognized Jeanette Falk, an employee at J. Reuben Long Detention Center, and Chief Deputy Tom Fox, each with 35 years of service, totaling 70 years of combined service to Horry County. - Resolution R-137-2025: Councilman Dennis DiSabato sponsored and Council unanimously approved a resolution honoring Premier School of Dance's 2025 Competition Team, including its national championship-winning routine "Bon Voyage." Catelyn Gesford thanked Council on behalf of the dancers, instructors, and parents. Reading of Ordinances - Second Reading & Public Hearings - No public comments were offered on any of the four rezoning ordinances. All four passed unanimously, moving to third reading on November 18, 2025. - Ordinance 92-2025: Rezoned 4.91 acres at Hwy 57 and Wailea Circle in Little River from RE 3 to RE 4 for outdoor storage (G3 Engineering for Normandy Corporation & Creek Associates LLC). Staff had recommended disapproval, while Planning Commission recommended approval 8:1. Councilwoman Jenna Dukes moved approval, noting the request removes the multifamily component that could otherwise be developed by right at up to 15 units per acre on a road already over capacity. - Ordinance 95-2025: Rezoned 0.7 acres on Bryan Road in Little River from Commercial Forest Agriculture (CFA) to Residential (SF 14.5) for an accessory dwelling (Bryan Pearson et al.). - Ordinance 96-2025: Rezoned 1.08 acres on Old Forest Drive in Loris from Limited Forest Agriculture (LFA) to Residential (MSF 20) for an accessory dwelling (Rocquellia Chanta Bell). - Ordinance 97-2025: Rezoned 8.08 acres on Forestbrook Road in Myrtle Beach from RE 4 to Inpatient Medical Services (ME 1) for a freestanding emergency department (Oxner & Stacy Law Firm agent for Georgetown Memorial Hospital DBA Tidelands Health). Key Outcomes - The agenda and the minutes of the September 16, 2025 regular meeting and September 26, 2025 emergency meeting were approved by acclamation. - Ordinance 80-2025, the Highway 707 Overlay Zone text amendment, was deferred to the November 18, 2025 County Council meeting. - The consent agenda was approved unanimously. - Resolution R-137-2025 was approved unanimously. - The four second-reading rezoning ordinances were approved unanimously and will go to third reading on November 18, 2025. - No executive session was held, and the meeting adjourned in memory of the individuals listed during memorial dedications. Upcoming Meetings - Next Council Meeting: November 18, 6:00 p.m.; I&R Committee: October 14, 9:00 a.m.; Public Safety Committee: October 14, 11:00 a.m.; Administration Committee: October 28, 1:00 p.m.; Fall Planning Retreat: November 4, 1:00 p.m. (dates/times subject to change).

The Administration Committee met on September 23, 2025, to discuss financial updates, EMS write-offs, and several resolutions. All actions were approved unanimously. Consent Calendar - Approval of agenda and minutes from July 22, 2025, passed unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were received. Discussion Items - Financial Update – July & August 2025: Jamie Norman presented financials for the new fiscal year. General fund revenues at $15.3 million (5.3% of annual budget), expenditures at $39.8 million (14%). Property tax revenues expected to increase in December/January. - EMS Write-Offs: Norman presented a write-off of $5,927,169 in uncollected EMS charges from fiscal year 2022. The committee noted continued collection efforts and historical recovery rates. - Financial Reporting Award: Shannon Todd announced that Horry County received the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting from GFOA for the 38th consecutive year. - Opioid Recovery Fund Application: Beth Tranter presented a resolution to apply for and accept $2,899,593.20 from SCORF for continuation of opioid programs in CY2026, with amendments including funds from Conway ($277,743) and North Myrtle Beach ($610,833) for services provided. - Community Land Trust Property: Tranter presented a resolution authorizing subdivision of excess VA nursing facility land for possible conveyance to the Horry County Community Land Trust for workforce housing development. - Premier School of Dance Resolution: David Jordan presented a resolution honoring the competition team for winning a national championship. - Community Benefit Fund Requests: Ashley Carroll presented multiple fund allocations totaling over $30,000 for various organizations. - Future Interstate Highway Formula Program: Shannon Todd presented a resolution supporting a new federal funding program for future interstate highways. - Coast RTA FY2026 Budget: Brian Piascik presented the transit authority's budget and compensation plan, including wage increases for drivers and mechanics to reduce turnover, and use of Ride 4 sales tax revenue for service improvements and capital needs. - Agricultural Exemption Extension: Sanford Graves presented a resolution to extend the filing deadline for agricultural property tax exemptions for two parcels, based on reasonable cause from a taxpayer. Key Outcomes - EMS Write-Offs: Noted for financial reporting purposes; collection efforts continue. - Opioid Recovery Fund Resolution: Approved with amendment to include funds from Conway and North Myrtle Beach. - Community Land Trust Resolution: Approved to proceed with planning and design. - Premier School of Dance Resolution: Approved to honor the team. - Community Benefit Fund Requests: Approved multiple allocations as presented. - Future Interstate Highway Formula Program: Approved to support the federal initiative. - Coast RTA Budget and Compensation Plan: Approved FY2026 budget and authorized county administrator to release payments. - Agricultural Exemption Extension: Approved to allow late filing for two properties. Note: All votes were unanimous unless otherwise noted. The next meeting is scheduled for October 28, 2025.

The Horry County Council held its regular meeting on September 16, 2025, at 6:00 PM in the Council Chambers. Chairman Johnny Gardner called the meeting to order. The invocation was given by Councilmember Dennis DiSabato, and the Pledge of Allegiance was led by Councilmember Cam Crawford. No members of the public signed up for public input. The agenda contents, minutes from the September 2, 2025 regular meeting, and the consent agenda (comprising multiple ordinances, resolutions, and appointments) were approved unanimously by acclimation. Presentations & Resolutions - Recognition of 30-Year Employee: Cheryl Williams, from the Register of Deeds office, was recognized for 30 years of service with Horry County Government. - Resolution R-126-2025: Designating October 5–11, 2025, as Fire Prevention Week with the theme "Charge into Fire Safety™: Lithium-Ion Batteries in Your Home." (Approved unanimously) - Resolution R-127-2025: Commending Firefighter/EMT-Advanced Marek Kruszewski for receiving the South Carolina State Firefighters’ Association 2025 Meritorious Action Award for rescuing a semi-responsive victim from a structure fire on December 8, 2024. (Approved unanimously) - Resolution R-128-2025: Proclaiming September 2025 as Suicide Prevention Awareness Month in Horry County, noting that approximately 80 county residents died by suicide in 2024. (Approved unanimously) - Resolution R-133-2025: Honoring the Coastal Carolinas Association of REALTORS® for 80 years of service to the community. (Approved unanimously) - Resolution R-134-2025: Recognizing September 25, 2025, as the National Day of Remembrance for Homicide Victims. (Approved unanimously) Reading of Ordinances - Third Reading & Public Hearing – Ordinance 82-2025: Finding that the Horry County Higher Education Commission may issue up to $7,100,000 of general obligation bonds for purchasing approximately 32.21 acres near Coastal Carolina University. The public hearing was opened and closed with no comments; the ordinance passed unanimously on third reading. - Second Reading & Public Hearing – Ordinances 83-2025 and 84-2025: To amend the Future Land Use Map (PIN 26712040017) from Rural Communities to Suburban and rezone the same parcel from Residential (MSF 10) to Retail with Accessory Outdoor Storage (RE 4) for a restaurant supply warehouse. Heard together; passed unanimously on second reading. - Second Reading & Public Hearing – Ordinances 85-2025 and 86-2025: To amend the Future Land Use Map (PIN 20300000018) from Rural to Rural Communities and rezone the same parcel from Forest Agriculture (FA) to Residential (SF 14.5) for a residential development. Heard together; passed unanimously on second reading. - First Reading – Ordinance 92-2025: To rezone PINs 31404020008 and 31404020007 from Convenience and Auto-related Services (RE 3) to Retail with Accessory Outdoor Storage (RE 4) for outdoor storage use. Councilmember Jenna Dukes moved to forward it to second reading and public hearing, which was approved unanimously. Memorial Dedications Councilmembers read the names of individuals to be honored: Walden Graham, Travis Dudley, Parmer Lee Skipper, Ralph Ford, Edward "Shorty" Bryant, James Wilson, Jimmy Webb III, Michael Lynn Stevens, Rebecca K. Cox, Anna R. Bullock, and Al Jordan. The meeting was adjourned in their memory. Key Outcomes - All resolutions (R-126 through R-134) were adopted unanimously. - Ordinance 82-2025 received final approval (third reading). - Ordinances 83-2025, 84-2025, 85-2025, and 86-2025 were advanced to third reading after unanimous second reading votes. - Ordinance 92-2025 passed first reading and was scheduled for a second reading and public hearing at the next meeting. - No executive session was held. The meeting adjourned at approximately 6:15 PM.

On September 9, 2025, the Horry County Infrastructure & Regulation Subcommittee on the Rural Civic Center met to review arena layout options, cost estimates, and authorize the next phase of design. The committee moved forward with the preferred master plan concept (Option 1) for schematic design. Consent Calendar - The agenda was approved unanimously. - The minutes from the March 15, 2024 meeting were approved without objection. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were offered. Discussion Items - Arena Layout Options: The master planning consultants (Charlie Johnson, Margaret Butler, Jay Renkens) presented four options for the arena and associated facilities. Option 1, the preferred concept from the master plan, included a 150x300 ft arena floor with 3,800 fixed seats, a covered warm-up, and a 200-stall barn, with an estimated cost of $115 million. Option 2 featured only the arena ($99 million). Option 3 added a covered warm-up and prefab stalls ($104 million). Option 4 was a simpler design with two stall barns and a 90,000 sq ft arena ($85.5 million). - Funding & Next Steps: David Gilreath and Barry Spivey reviewed available funding: $35.5 million in cash on hand, potential state grants ($5–10 million), and hospitality tax revenue. The schematic design phase (Phase 3) was estimated at $729,607 and would produce refined cost estimates and design details. - Committee Support: Members expressed strong support for Option 1, citing the county's growth, regional significance, and the need for a flexible, multi-purpose facility. Several members noted the economic development potential and the importance of not undersizing the project. Key Outcomes - Motion to Move Forward: A motion was made and seconded to authorize the schematic design phase for Option 1 (the preferred master plan concept). The motion passed unanimously. - Next Steps: The design team will proceed with schematic design, including civil, structural, and landscape consulting, and will return with updated cost estimates. The road improvements (Hardwick Road) will be coordinated with the facility timeline. - Funding Strategy: The committee acknowledged the need to pursue state and private funding to supplement the county's $35.5 million allocation and hospitality tax revenues.

The Horry County Public Safety Committee met on September 9, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. in the County Council Conference Room. Chairman Danny Hardee called the meeting to order, followed by an invocation and pledge of allegiance. The committee unanimously approved the agenda, the minutes from the August 12, 2025 meeting, and several resolutions, including a late-added resolution recognizing the National Day of Remembrance for Homicide Victims. The main discussion centered on a comprehensive update from the Behavioral Services Department, featuring presentations from multiple public safety and treatment programs highlighting significant progress in mental health, substance use, and juvenile services. Resolutions - Designating October 5–11, 2025, as Fire Prevention Week – Chief Joey Tanner presented the resolution, emphasizing the 2025 theme “Charge into Fire Safety: Lithium-Ion Batteries in Your Home.” The resolution noted that Horry County Fire Rescue has been a Fire Safe South Carolina Community for four consecutive years and responded to over 200 confirmed structure fires in 2024. The motion passed unanimously. - Commending Firefighter/EMT-Advanced Marek Kruszewski – Chief Tanner recognized Firefighter Kruszewski for receiving the 2025 Meritorious Action Award from the South Carolina State Firefighters’ Association for rescuing a trapped occupant from a house fire on December 8, 2024. The victim was treated and discharged with an expected full recovery. The motion passed unanimously. - Designating September as Suicide Prevention Month – Michelle Smith, Behavioral Services Director, presented the resolution. She highlighted that approximately 80 Horry County residents died by suicide in 2024, with the county’s rate higher than the state average. She also noted upcoming awareness events, including International Suicide Remembrance Day (September 10) and a Mental Health Care Fair for county employees on September 26. The motion passed unanimously. - National Day of Remembrance for Homicide Victims – (Added by motion) The committee added and unanimously approved a resolution recognizing this day, with the police department emphasizing the importance of honoring victims and supporting their families. Discussion Items - Behavioral Services Update – Randy Webster (Assistant County Administrator) and Michelle Smith led an extensive update, showcasing the county’s coordinated behavioral health efforts. Key presentations included: - Next Steps Program (J. Reuben Long Detention Center) – Marcus Rhodes reported that 73 incarcerated individuals are in recovery programs, with a waiting list of 1,380. He described a successful intervention where a woman with serious mental illness was transported to her home in Florence and helped back inside after no family responded. - Treatment Court (15th Circuit) – Candy Townsend noted that the program is the largest in South Carolina, having accepted 248 new participants in FY 2023–2024 (compared to 4–24 in other circuits). The completion rate was 73%, and 34 clients graduated vs. 7–15 in comparable courts. Over 1,200 clients have graduated since 2005. The court is hiring two part-time peer support specialists. - Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) – Horry County Police Department – Sergeant Calderwood reported that from September 1, 2024 to August 31, 2025, the team responded to 4,011 calls, contacted 2,647 individuals at 2,995 addresses, and connected approximately 30% to services. Calls have increased 20% since May 2025, averaging 400 per month. A fifth team member will focus on follow-ups. Success stories included helping a suicidal individual on a highway overpass obtain housing and medical care, and coordinating with the harm reduction team to place a jailed substance user into a 28-day treatment program within hours of release. - Harm Reduction Team (Horry County Fire Rescue) – Christian Edwards stated that since inception, the team has engaged 1,597 individuals through follow-up, 2,834 through outreach, and distributed 1,682 doses of Narcan. They are averaging 25 individuals per month connected to substance use disorder treatment. A new mobile medication-assisted treatment (MAT) program is being developed to allow paramedics to administer buprenorphine (Suboxone) in the field, pending Schedule 3 authorization for South Carolina paramedics. The team also plans to hire two additional positions and expand prevention education in schools. - Juvenile Services & Project Lifesaver – Chief Leonhardt introduced a new juvenile services unit focused on crimes against youth, internet crimes against children (ICAC), and the Project Lifesaver program (radio wave tracking for at-risk individuals, already in use by SOS and others). A dedicated investigator is launching this effort, with another officer joining soon. Department Reports Committee members noted that written reports from Police, Fire/Rescue, Animal Care Center, Emergency Management, 911, Sheriff’s Office, Detention Center, and EMS Write-Offs were included in their packets. No questions were raised. Key Outcomes - All resolutions were approved unanimously. - The committee expressed strong support for the behavioral services initiatives, with Chairman Hardee and members praising the collaborative, multi-agency approach. - The next Public Safety Committee meeting is scheduled for October 14, 2025. - No executive session was held; the meeting adjourned at approximately 11:19 a.m.

The Infrastructure & Regulation Committee convened on September 9, 2025, to discuss and act on several items, including a proposed Rails-to-Trails project, amendments to landscaping and camping ordinances, a road funding update, and multiple resolutions. The committee directed staff on next steps for several items and approved all resolutions unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public signed up for public input. Discussion Items - Rails to Trails (City of Myrtle Beach) – Fox Simons and Bill Mullins presented a proposal to railbank a 2.5-mile railroad corridor east of the Intracoastal Waterway and convert it into a multi-use trail. They emphasized federal grant eligibility, preservation of the corridor for future rail reactivation, and potential economic benefits. Committee members expressed general support but requested staff compile existing studies and concept plans before moving to full council. The committee agreed to bring the item back to the next meeting for further discussion. - Camping and Park Regulations – Ray Dunham, Parks and Recreation Director, presented a proposed ordinance to prohibit camping on all county-owned property, amend boat landing rules (including prohibiting open alcohol containers and clarifying hours of operation), and enact new park rules (e.g., leash requirements, fire prohibitions). The committee voted to send the ordinance to full council for consideration. Chairman Al Allen made the motion, which was seconded and passed. - Local Road Funding – Andy Markunas provided an update on the county’s road network, resurfacing cycles, and funding. He reported that the current $50 road user fee generates about $21 million annually, with an additional $10 million from interest. The resurfacing budget is approximately $10–12 million per year, covering 30–35 miles. He noted that the network is in good condition for the next 5–8 years, but a fee increase may be needed after that. RIDE 4 will add about 10 miles of resurfacing per year. No action was taken; the update was for information only. - Landscaping, Buffer, and Tree Preservation Standards (Ordinance Amendment) – Stevie Brown, Planning Director, presented proposed amendments to Article V of the zoning ordinance, including expanded buffer requirements (e.g., 100-foot buffers for major residential adjacent to single-family, 200-foot roadsides, 500-foot buffers near industrial uses) and penalties for clear-cutting before development. Committee members expressed concern about complexity and the need for stakeholder input. A motion to send the ordinance back to staff for further refinement and stakeholder engagement was made by Councilman Tom Anderson, seconded, and passed unanimously. The item will return to the committee in October. Key Outcomes - Rails to Trails – Committee directed staff to compile existing studies and concept plans for review at the next committee meeting; no formal vote. - Camping Ordinance – Committee voted to send the proposed ordinance to full council (motion by Chairman Allen, seconded, passed). - Landscaping Ordinance – Committee voted to send the amendment back to staff for further discussion with stakeholders and to return in October (motion by Anderson, seconded, passed). - Resolutions (all passed unanimously): - Resolution R--2025 – Accepted Edge Field Phase 1A (River Birch Drive, Brooke Drive, Battle Way) into the county road maintenance system. - Resolution R--2025 – Approved the grouping order for RIDE 4 dirt road paving projects, with 200 miles to be paved in three groups over 15 years. - Resolution R--2025 – Established the Carolina Forest Recreation Center playground as a capital project and authorized transfer of $750,000 from the Recreation Lifecycle Maintenance account and $750,000 from Parks Impact Fees (total $1.5 million). - Resolution R--2025 – Authorized transfer of $23.3 million from Project A0128 (MYR Taxiway B Pavement Rehab) to Project A0132 (MYR Runway Reconstruction) to accelerate the runway reconstruction. - Resolution R--2025 – Honored the Coastal Carolinas Association of Realtors on its 80th anniversary, recognizing its 5,100 members and $1.49 billion economic impact in Horry County in 2024. Next Steps - The next Infrastructure & Regulation Committee meeting is scheduled for October 14, 2025.

The Horry County Council held its regular meeting on Tuesday, September 2, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. in Council Chambers. Chairman Johnny Gardner presided. The council approved the agenda as amended (deferring Ordinance 80-2025 to November 18, 2025) and the August 19, 2025 meeting minutes by acclamation. All votes taken during the meeting were unanimous. Consent Calendar - Approved the consent agenda as amended, which included: - Third Reading – Ordinance 73-2025 amending the Future Land Use Map for PIN 42912010011 from Rural Communities to Suburban. - Third Reading – Ordinance 74-2025 rezoning PIN 42912010011 from Neighborhood Commercial (NC) to Retail with Accessory Outdoor Storage (RE 4). - Third Reading – Ordinance 75-2025 amending the Future Land Use Map for PIN 28900000039 from Rural to Rural Communities. - Third Reading – Ordinance 76-2025 rezoning a 13.38-acre portion of PIN 28900000039 from Forest Agriculture (FA) to Residential (MSF 14.5). - Third Reading – Ordinances 77-2025, 78-2025, and 79-2025 approving rezoning requests for Ralph A. Pandure Jr. et al., St. Mark the Apostle Coptic Orthodox Church, and Kenneth James DeMarse et al. - Resolution R-115-2025 recognizing Jamie Norman, Director of Finance, as one of GFOA’s Outstanding Professionals of the Year. - District Board Appointments: Thomas Wallace, II to the Board of Assessment Appeals and Billy Wayne Todd to the Museum Board of Trustees. - (Ordinance 80-2025, the Highway 707 Overlay amendment, was deferred to the November 18, 2025 meeting.) Public Comments & Testimony - James Milward, a frequent speaker, thanked the council and staff for improvements at the Socastee Recycling Center. He displayed the new painted lane markings and traffic flow changes, calling it a “simple fix” and encouraged other districts to consider similar measures. He also shared his upcoming 50th wedding anniversary and expressed gratitude for the county’s care. Presentations/Resolutions - Resolution R-111-2025: Adopted the Horry County HOME Consortium Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report (CAPER) for fiscal year 2024-2025. A procedural technical amendment was proposed and passed, followed by unanimous approval of the amended resolution. - Resolution R-114-2025: Honored the 2025 Coastal Carolina University Baseball Team. Head Coach Kevin Schnall accepted the resolution and thanked the community for its support, noting the team’s 56-13 record, a 26-game winning streak, and their runner-up finish at the College World Series. The resolution passed unanimously. Reading of Ordinances - Ordinance 81-2025: Amended the fiscal year 2026 budget to recognize additional revenue and expenditures, including four new Behavioral Services positions, three library positions funded by state aid, $5,000,000 for the Murrells Inlet Dredging Project, $4,746,300 for the Windy Hill EMS project, and updated tire disposal fees. No public comment; passed unanimously. - Ordinance 82-2025: Found that the Horry County Higher Education Commission may issue up to $7,100,000 in general obligation bonds for land acquisition near Coastal Carolina University. No public comment; passed unanimously. - Ordinance 87-2025: Approved an amendment to the existing MRD 1 zoning for PIN 26712010066 (Birchwood), reducing the unit count from 79 to 77 and adjusting an external buffer width. Councilman Causey clarified this was not a new rezoning but a property-line correction. Passed unanimously. - Ordinance 88-2025: Rezoned PIN 36611010006 from RE 1 to RE 4 for a commercial center. Councilman Hardee noted it was a commercial rezoning for a business. Passed unanimously. - Ordinance 89-2025: Rezoned PIN 44207020009 from Mobile Home Park (MHP) to Residential (MSF 6) for 10 duplexes. Passed unanimously. - Ordinance 91-2025: Rezoned PIN 31108030005 from SF 10 to SF 6 for a duplex. Passed unanimously. Memorial Dedications - The council recognized and honored the memory of Melinda D. Sasser, Daniel Thomas Nelson, and Mutt McDaniels, and adjourned in their honor. Key Outcomes - All motions and resolutions passed unanimously. - Ordinance 80-2025 was deferred to the November 18, 2025 meeting. - The next regular council meeting is scheduled for September 16, 2025.

The Horry County Council held its regular meeting on August 19, 2025, at 6:00 PM in the Council Chambers. Chairman Johnny Gardner presided. The meeting included an invocation by Dr. Jenna Dukes, the Pledge of Allegiance led by Mr. Tyler Servant, public input, approval of the agenda and minutes from July 15, 2025, unanimous approval of the consent agenda, presentations recognizing employees with 30 years of service and Jamie Norman as GFOA Outstanding Professional of the Year, and several second-reading ordinances with public hearings, followed by one first-reading ordinance and a memorial dedication. Public Comments & Testimony - Ashley Cowan expressed gratitude to the Council and Parks and Recreation for preserving the 18-hole disc golf course at Socastee Recreation Park. She urged that user groups be involved throughout the planning process for other capital projects. - Matthew Robinson, part owner of Another Round Myrtle Beach, thanked Councilman Servant and Councilman Crawford for working with the disc golf community to retain a championship-level course at the park. He noted the course is one of South Carolina's most played and important to local tourism and small business. Presentations & Recognitions - 30-Year Service Recognitions: Stephen Thompson (Auditor’s Office, 30 years) and Vanessa Bell (Solicitor’s Office, 35 years) were honored for their service. - Resolution R-115-2025 – Jamie Norman: Director of Finance Jamie Norman was recognized for being named one of the Government Finance Officers Association’s (GFOA) Outstanding Professionals of the Year. She is the first and only recipient from Horry County and the State of South Carolina. Council commended her leadership and dedication. Consent Calendar (Approved Unanimously) - Third readings for Ordinances 61–62 (rezoning PIN 40506020005 from FA to MSF 14.5 and FLU amendment from Rural to Rural Communities). - Third readings for Ordinances 63, 66–70 (various rezoning requests). - Third readings for Ordinances 71–72 (development agreement with Hwy. Nine Industrial Holdings, LLC and rezoning to MA2/MA3). - First readings for Ordinances 81–86 (budget amendment, higher education bonds, FLU amendments, rezoning). - First readings for Ordinances 87–89, 91 (rezoning requests). - Resolutions R-109–110 (FEMA Fire Prevention & Safety Grant, Opioid Recovery Fund staffing). - Resolution R-112 (abatement of unfit dwellings). - Resolutions R-113, R-116 (public hearing for higher education bonds, Emergency Management Performance Grant). - Resolutions R-117–125 (road and drainage dedications for subdivisions). - Community Benefit Fund allocations (19 items) and cancellation of the October 21, 2025 regular meeting. Second Reading & Public Hearing – Ordinances - Ordinances 73-74 (Crawford): Rezone PIN 42912010011 from Neighborhood Commercial (NC) to Retail with Accessory Outdoor Storage (RE 4) and amend future land use from Rural Communities to Suburban. Approved unanimously with no public comment. - Ordinances 75-76 (Allen): Rezone a 13.38-acre portion of PIN 28900000039 from Forest Agriculture (FA) to Residential (MSF 14.5) and amend FLU from Rural to Rural Communities. Approved unanimously with no public comment. - Ordinance 77 (Pandure et al.): Rezone PIN 31108020016 from Neighborhood Retail Services (RE 1) to Residential (MSF 10). Approved unanimously. - Ordinance 78 (St. Mark the Apostle Coptic Orthodox Church): Rezone PIN 39813010001 from General Residential (GR) and Neighborhood Commercial (NC) to Resort Housing (RH) for a religious spiritual center/retreat. Approved unanimously. - Ordinance 79 (DeMarse et al.): Rezone PIN 27101040001 from Limited Forest Agriculture (LFA) to Residential (MSF 20) for an accessory dwelling. Approved unanimously. - Ordinance 80: Amendment to Article VIII, Section 804 of the Zoning Ordinance pertaining to the Highway 707 Overlay Zone, enhancing buffer and landscaping standards. Approved unanimously. First Reading – Ordinance 90 (Manning) - Ordinance 90-2025: To rezone PIN 27907010003 from Commercial Forest Agriculture (CFA) to Residential (SF 6) for a duplex. Councilmember Allen moved to disapprove, consistent with staff recommendation and the Planning Commission’s unanimous disapproval. The motion to disapprove passed unanimously. Memorial Dedications - Councilmembers read names of deceased individuals to be honored. The list included many community members and first responders. Key Outcomes - All consent agenda items and second-reading ordinances were approved by unanimous votes. - Ordinance 90-2025 was disapproved unanimously on first reading. - The Council approved a resolution to hold a public hearing on September 16, 2025, for the issuance of up to $7,100,000 in general obligation bonds by the Horry County Higher Education Commission. - The meeting adjourned after an executive session for legal advice on a pending claim.