Public Meetings - Horry County, South Carolina

This regular meeting of the Horry County Council began at 11:00 AM on March 4, 2025, with an invocation led by Mr. DeSabato and the Pledge of Allegiance led by Mr. Anderson. The meeting opened with extensive remarks regarding the Carolina Forest wildfires that began on March 1, 2025, during which eight neighborhoods were evacuated. Council members, including Chairman and Mr. Webster, expressed gratitude to first responders and county staff. The fire had burned 2,059 acres and was 30% contained at the meeting time, with concerns about upcoming severe winds (60–70 mph). One arrest was made for an illegal burn unrelated to the wildfire. The meeting then proceeded through agenda items, rezoning ordinances, and a memorial dedication. Consent Calendar - The agenda was adopted by acclamation without objection. - Minutes from the February 18, 2025 regular meeting were approved by acclamation. - The consent agenda (unidentified specific items) was moved, seconded, and passed unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke during the scheduled public hearing for six rezoning ordinances (Ordinances 20-2025 through 27-2025). No public testimony was given for Ordinance 16-2025 or its associated development agreement (Ordinance 17-2025). Discussion Items - Carolina Forest Wildfire Update (March 1-4, 2025) - Chairman and Mr. Webster (county administrator) reported that the fire started Saturday afternoon, leading to eight neighborhood evacuations. 500 personnel worked the event, supported by state assets. The fire was 30% contained at 2,059 acres. One citation was issued for an illegal outdoor burn, with one arrest (now at J. Reuben Long Detention Center). The source of the wildfire remains under investigation. Severe winds (60-70 mph) were expected the next day, potentially forcing firefighters to shelter temporarily. Council members praised the coordinated response, including Parks and Rec, emergency management, PIO, forestry commission, and aerial support. Councilman West (whose district includes Carolina Forest) thanked all agencies and noted that only melted siding was the worst damage, attributing the lack of destroyed homes to divine intervention. - Rezoning Ordinances (Multiple) - Six rezoning ordinances (20-2025 through 27-2025) were presented for public hearing. No public or council comments were made. All passed unanimously on a single vote. - Ordinance 16-2025 – Rezoning for Multi-Residential - This ordinance rezones parcels (PINs 349-000-00028-2930 and a portion of 3-1) from Commercial Forest Agriculture to Multi-Residential District. Councilman Causey noted it is a generational farm being sold, and the site could otherwise be annexed into North Myrtle Beach with no county benefit. Passed unanimously. - Ordinance 17-2025 – Development Agreement for Same Property - Councilman Causey described the agreement: the developer will install turn lanes on Highway 90, dedicate right-of-way for future expansion, improve Coates Road, pay standard impact fees, and provide an additional $1.3 million for area projects. A traffic signal will be installed at Highway 90 and Highway 57 at the start of the project. The amendment to the agreement was moved, seconded, and passed unanimously; the main motion as amended also passed unanimously. - Memorial Dedications - Councilman Allen read a list of deceased individuals to be honored by adjourning in their memory: former council member Janice Jordan, Joelan Hardwick, Irwin Duby Otal, Patsy Carroll, Barbara Hooks, Nancy Dalcy, Joanne Lewis, Sabrina Cox, Lily Graham, Reuben Edge, Randall Dale Cox, Shelby Long James, Lonnie Joe Chestnut, and Cory Lee Nars Sr. An attempt by another council member to recognize appointed boards was ruled out of order. The meeting was then adjourned in their memory. Key Outcomes - All six rezoning ordinances (20-2025 through 27-2025) passed unanimously. - Ordinance 16-2025 (rezoning) passed unanimously. - Ordinance 17-2025 (development agreement) passed unanimously after an amendment (also unanimous). - Meeting adjourned in memory of the listed individuals. - No executive session was held.

The Horry County Administrative Committee met on February 25, 2025, to discuss property tax reassessment results, Coast RTA budget revisions and transit plans, employee health assessment changes, congressional funding requests, an interfund loan for a special tax district, community funding allocations, and a proposed trial of wind-driven shading devices on county beaches. Reassessment Update - The County Assessor reported a "ridiculously successful" reassessment with minimal appeals. Appeals per council district ranged from 0.2% to 0.3% of parcel base, indicating fair and equitable assessment across political boundaries. - New growth data was mapped by council district for the 2024 year, showing the percentage of new construction each district received. - The office plans to use appeals data over the next 30 days to refine appraisal models and use new software for visual analysis of growth areas and hot spots. - The Public Information Office was credited for effective outreach, reducing the number of constituent phone calls. Coast RTA FY25 Budget Amendment & Transit Development Plan - Budget Amendment: Coast RTA Director Brian presented a revised FY25 budget that restores a 20% service cut that would have been necessary if the Ride 4 sales tax had not passed. The revised budget increases expenses by approximately $500,000, while revenue from the sales tax (starting May 1, 2025) will provide about $3 million for the last five months of the fiscal year. - To bridge the gap between the end of road use fees (June 30) and the first sales tax payment (October), Coast RTA will need to borrow between $1 million and $1.4 million, with full repayment expected by the January 15, 2026 sales tax payment. - Federal formula funds (75% cap on operating use) will be reallocated: $533,000 from FY21 shifted to capital for a technology RFP covering rider app, fare collection, and automation. - Capital Program: The Grissom Parkway facility was acquired via eminent domain with $4.38 million in escrow; a transit center and new bus operating maintenance facility are planned. Total capital needs are about $70 million, including 17 buses at $10.6 million. Ride 4 includes $25 million for facilities. - Transit Development Plan (TDP): A five-year plan will be delivered soon. Priorities include increasing frequencies on Routes 7, 15, and 77 to hourly (requiring 3–4 additional buses), improving bus stop ADA compliance (currently only a handful of 410 stops are compliant), and expanding van pools and microtransit. Van pools cost $700/month per vehicle and can cover 6–12 riders; one bus investment can fund 45 van pools. Four van pools are already operating. - Georgetown County: Their contribution is about $400,000/year (road use fees), but ridership from Georgetown is proportionally higher. The director noted the need for additional Georgetown funding for a proposed new route. - The committee passed a resolution authorizing the budget amendment and loan acquisition. Employee Health Risk Assessment Changes - A resolution was proposed to change employee health risk assessments (HRAs) from mandatory annual worksite events to voluntary PIBA screenings available year-round. Currently, over 90% of eligible employees participate, but the worksite events strain the wellness center's capacity for acute visits and incur rising costs from the medical vendor. - The PIBA screening includes the same tests but offers a more comprehensive panel, with a vendor able to visit worksites monthly. Pilot results showed easier scheduling and faster results. Congressional Directed Funding Requests - Executive leadership identified five projects for U.S. congressional funding consideration, selected for their progress and alignment with transportation priorities from the Ride referendum. Projects include U.S. 701 widening north of Conway; funding requests reflect escalated costs since the referendum. Eagle Trace Special Tax District Interfund Loan - A resolution authorized an interfund loan of approximately $600,000 to the Eagle Trace Special Tax District for road, drainage, and public improvements. The loan is amortized over 15 years at 4.63% interest and will be repaid through tax bills within the district. The committee approved, noting that banks have little appetite for such small loans. Community Funding Requests - Four allocations from council district funds were presented: - $1,824 to Horry County Parks and Recreation for North Strand Football all-state team transportation (district 9). - $1,500 to Forever Home Cat Sanctuary for a wellness shed (districts 6 and 9). - $4,000 to Grand Strand Christian Church for townhomes for elderly and less fortunate (district 8). - $2,599 to Green Sea Floyds Athletic Booster Club for a baseball pitching machine (grades 7–12). Beach Umbrella Ordinance Amendment (Wind-Driven Shading Devices) - An amendment to the county’s umbrella ordinance was introduced to allow wind-driven shading devices (e.g., Shibumi shades) on a one-year trial period. The temporary status can be amended, extended, or canceled by resolution. - Discussion: Kevin Lark, Beach Patrol Supervisor for Myrtle Beach, opposed the trial, citing public safety concerns: these devices are large (up to 144 sq ft in off-season), obstruct views of the water, and complicate enforcement of the simple "umbrella-only" rule. Myrtle Beach and North Myrtle Beach restrict them to off-season; Surfside Beach allows them year-round. - Council members expressed mixed views. Some noted the conflict when Surfside allows them but county beaches do not. Others referenced prior public safety committee opposition. The committee decided to move the amendment to full council without a recommendation, allowing council to debate the time frame and specifics. Key Outcomes - Approved: Coast RTA FY25 revised budget amendment and loan authorization. - Approved: Change to employee health risk assessment process (use of PIBA screenings). - Approved: Interfund loan to Eagle Trace Special Tax District ($600,000 at 4.63% over 15 years). - Approved (forwarded to full council): Beach umbrella ordinance amendment for a one-year trial of wind-driven shading devices, without committee recommendation. - Noted: Community funding requests were presented; no vote recorded (likely administrative approvals). - Next Meeting: Scheduled for March 25, 2025.

The Horry County Council held its regular meeting on February 18, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers. The meeting was called to order by Chairman Johnny Gardner, followed by an invocation by Councilman Bill Howard and the Pledge of Allegiance by Councilman Cam Crawford. The council approved the agenda as amended (deferring one item), approved the minutes from the February 4, 2025 meeting, and approved the consent agenda. A presentation was made designating February 21, 2025, as Government Communicators Day. The meeting concluded with memorial dedications, announcements of upcoming meetings, and a recognition of a citizen for work on the Legends Drive Special Tax District. Consent Calendar - The agenda was amended to defer Ordinance 29-2025 (conveyance of excess road right-of-way to The Lakes POA, Inc.) to the March 18, 2025 meeting. - The council approved the consent agenda (motion by Councilman DiSabato, second by Councilman Anderson, passed by acclamation) which included: - Third Reading of six rezoning ordinances (Ordinances 06-2025, 09-2025, 11-2025, 12-2025, 13-2025, and 14-2025). - First Reading of eight rezoning ordinances (Ordinances 16-2025, 19-2025, 20-2025, 23-2025, 24-2025, 25-2025, 26-2025, and 27-2025). - First Reading of Ordinance 17-2025 (development agreement with SC Hwy 90 Investments, LLC) and Ordinance 18-2025 (Future Land Use Map amendment for Waterfront Villas). - First Reading of Ordinance 28-2025 (amending Heavy Manufacturing zoning regulations). - Resolutions R-03-2025 through R-23-2025, covering ARPA funding transfer, HOME-ARP plan amendment and award, housing rehabilitation program, surplus property declarations (two service weapons and a police K-9), acceptance of roads/drainage for six subdivisions, fund transfers for capital projects, approval of Community Land Trust bylaws and budget, East Coast Greenway project funding, consulting budget transfer, tree mitigation fund allocations for beautification, and a non-binding MOU for Pelicans Ballpark lease extension. - District Board Appointments: Holly Gragg Capone to the Museum Board of Trustees (District 4) and six appointments to the Legends Drive Special Tax Commission (Terrance Anderson, Donna Crouch, Dawn Elrod, John Hrabic, Tom Tiscione – District 8). Presentations - Resolution R-16-2025: Mikayla Moskov, Public Information Officer, presented a resolution designating February 21, 2025, as Government Communicators Day in Horry County. The resolution was read aloud and approved by acclamation. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda Approved: All items on the consent agenda were approved unanimously, with the exception of Ordinance 29-2025 which was deferred to March 18, 2025. - Government Communicators Day Designated: February 21, 2025, was officially recognized as Government Communicators Day. - Memorial Dedications: Sixteen individuals were memorialized at the close of the meeting. - Recognition: Councilman Masciarelli recognized Mr. Tim for his years of work on the Legends Drive road project, thanking him for his perseverance and noting the project will commence soon. - Upcoming Meetings: The Administration Committee meeting was rescheduled to February 25, 2025, at 9:00 a.m. All other meetings are subject to change.

The Horry County Public Safety Committee met on February 11, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. in the County Council Conference Room. The committee approved several resolutions and received annual year-in-review presentations from the Police, Fire/Rescue, Emergency Management, 911, and Public Information Office departments. All resolutions were passed unanimously. Consent Calendar - Approval of the agenda and minutes from the October 8, 2024 meeting. - Resolution to transfer $719,215.60 in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds from the Homelessness and Mental Health budget category to create a mental health services project within Public Safety, funding a coordinating director position for opioid and mental health initiatives. - Resolution to amend the Horry County HOME Consortium HOME-ARP Allocation Plan, reallocating $600,000 from non-congregate shelter development to supportive services ($400,000 increase) and tenant-based rental assistance ($400,000 increase). - Resolution to award HOME-ARP funding: $700,000 to Eastern Carolina Housing Organization for rental development (4 units) in the Racepath community, and $75,000 to Veterans Welcome Home and Resource Center for homelessness prevention supportive services. - Resolution adopting the Horry County Owner-Occupied Housing Rehabilitation Program Policies and Procedures Manual, codifying repair programs (emergency, essential, substantial, reconstruction) and affordability periods. - Resolution declaring surplus a service weapon (Glock Model 45, serial BLHH188) for retiring LT. Terry Adkins (Sheriff’s Office, 30 years of service). - Resolution declaring surplus a service weapon (Glock serial BZXC871) for retiring Sgt. Jill Domogauer (Police Department, 16 years of service). - Resolution declaring retiring Police K9 Vanda as surplus for retired officer Jeff Whitmire. Public Comments & Testimony - None. Discussion Items - Penalty for Running from Police: Chief Leonhardt reported an increase in vehicles fleeing law enforcement. First offense is a misdemeanor with a $500 fine and a minimum 90-day sentence. He advocated for bond reform at the state level. Councilman Anderson noted a state bill is being pursued. - Police End of Year Review: Chief Leonhardt highlighted 2024 statistics: 82 new hires, 383 sworn officers, 72 civilian staff. Calls for service increased by approximately 10,000 to over 122,000. Part one crime data was provided. Special operations included 65 SWAT calls, 139 bomb calls, 87 K9 deployments, 44 negotiations. Drug seizures: 640 pounds of drugs, 367 firearms, over $500,000 cash, 936 arrests, and nearly 4,500 traffic stops. The Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) handled 2,520 calls, serving 1,650 individuals, with 31% connected to critical services. The Animal Care Center maintained a live release rate over 90%. Plans for the fifth precinct and SRO program expansion into middle schools were discussed. - Fire End of Year Review: Chief Tanner reported 83,000 calls (highest on record), with 82% medical. The department responded to 607 structure fires, 276 hazmat incidents, and 740 wildfires. Community risk reduction efforts reached 55,000 people. Staffing includes 532 career, 57 administrative, and 128 volunteer personnel. 80 recruits were in the academy. The advanced EMT program is awaiting state approval. The harm reduction program expanded to four members. Three new stations were opened, and rapid intervention team packs were installed on all engines. - Emergency Management End of Year Review: Sam Hodge reported receiving the SC Emergency Management Agency of the Year award. The department coordinated responses to Tropical Storm Debbie and deployed staff to upstate counties for Hurricane Helene. Over 10,000 'Know Your Zone' hurricane guides were distributed. More than 30 training sessions and exercises were conducted. The multi-jurisdictional all-hazard mitigation plan is being updated. Unified command structure with public safety partners was emphasized. - Brief on Full Scale Exercise (March 12-13, 2025): Sam Hodge outlined 'Operation Outage Watch', a two-day exercise simulating a long-term power outage. Day 1 activates the Emergency Operations Center with 80 participants from 50 agencies. Day 2 involves field exercises: base camp setup, emergency fuel distribution, and a point of distribution for commodities, with 100 participants from 20 agencies. - 911 End of Year Review: Renee Hardwick reported 555,352 phone calls, 320,557 incidents dispatched, 672,413 NCIC transactions, and 4.66 million radio transactions. Average 911 call duration is 2 minutes 24 seconds. The center dispatches for 14 agencies. A round-robin with coastal cooperatives was successfully implemented. An electronic policy tracker was introduced. Radio communications software and hardware were fully upgraded. 10 new hires will start February 24. The center has 3 vacancies. - PIO Office End of Year Review: Mikayla Moskov reported 7 full-time team members (8 positions). The team manages 443,000 followers across public safety social media accounts. In 2024, they conducted 2,000 media contacts/interviews, processed 4,000 FOIA requests and 2,000 incident report requests. They battled misinformation and scam accounts. A social media feed tool was added to the county website. Team members completed various training programs. Special events support included the PGA Tour, Bike Week, and visits from the Vice President and President. Key Outcomes - All eight resolutions were approved unanimously by the committee. - The committee received annual reviews and will continue to monitor staffing, response, and program developments. - The next Public Safety Committee meeting is scheduled for March 11, 2025.

On February 11, 2025, the Horry County Infrastructure & Regulation Committee convened to discuss forest management, an update from RJ Corman Railroad, aligning board term expirations, and several resolutions and ordinances. The meeting began with an invocation and pledge, followed by approval of the agenda and minutes. No public comments were received. Consent Calendar - Road and Drainage Acceptances: Unanimously approved acceptance of roads and drainage in Cameron Village Phase 2A3, Forestbrook Estates Phase 5, Glasgow Village, and Ridgefield Phases 1, 2, and 3 into the County maintenance system, as recommended by staff. - Resolution Designating Government Communicators Day: Approved unanimously to designate February 21, 2025, as Government Communicators Day in Horry County. - Resolution Approving Transfer of Bond Funds: Approved the transfer of $467,729.45 from bond issuance costs, $843,000.76 from interest income, and savings from three fire stations ($116,249.21, $41,875.40, $41,875.39) to fund $700,000 for Animal Care Center additions, $611,729.21 for Public Works Complex expansion, and $200,000 for Prestwick Fire Station preconstruction design. - Resolution to Transfer Funds from New Town Park to Carolina Forest Expansion: Tabled at the request of a council member who wished to explore alternative uses such as the Rails-to-Trails project. - Resolution Approving Bylaws and Three-Year Budget for Horry County Community Land Trust: Approved unanimously, designating $241,819.88 from ARPA interest and $1,869,914.00 from developer fee excess interest for affordable workforce housing. The CLT will be governed by a tri-partite board. - Resolution Identifying East Coast Greenway as Capital Improvement Project: Approved the transfer of $274,023.51 from impact fees for trails to the East Coast Greenway Phase 1 project, with a $1.34 million SC DOT grant requiring a $335,075 local match. - Resolution Authorizing Transfer of Consulting Expenditure Budget: Approved the transfer of up to $100,000 from consulting budget to secure federal and state funding assistance for the RIDE 4 transportation initiative. - Resolution Allocating Tree Mitigation Funds: Approved two allocations: $21,630.92 to Carolina Forest Middle of the Road for median landscaping and mulching, and $3,375 to Beautify Carolina Forest for median maintenance, both from tree mitigation fees. Public Comments & Testimony - No public input was provided. Discussion Items - Forest Management/Timber Cutting: Representatives from the South Carolina Forestry Commission and Forestry Association discussed the balance between sustainable forestry and development. They noted that the state's Right to Practice Forestry Act limits local restrictions on forestry operations. Options presented included a one-year development delay after final harvest (as in Greenville County) or up to a five-year building permit deferral (as in Beaufort County) for violations of local regulations. Council members expressed interest in increasing the 18-month hold period for development after clear-cutting and exploring buffer requirements. Staff will draft an ordinance incorporating these ideas for the next meeting. - 2024 RJ Corman Carolina Line Update: Adam Boyle, Senior Director of Commercial Development, reported a 20% growth in carloads year-over-year, reaching 10,000 carloads in 2024, with 18 customers on the line. The railroad has 13-14 miles leased from Horry County. He noted efforts to address issues with the Conway swing bridge and no major projects planned for 2025. Council members appreciated the reduction in truck traffic (estimated 40,000-50,000 truckloads avoided). - Aligning Board/Committee/Commission Term Expirations with Councilmember Terms: Discussion centered on allowing new council members to appoint or reappoint board members within six months of taking office. Council members favored reducing terms from four to two years to allow for accountability and flexibility. The proposal includes all boards (Planning Commission, Library Board, etc.) and will be drafted for a future meeting. Key Outcomes - Forest Management Ordinance: Staff will draft an ordinance to increase the development hold period after clear-cutting and consider buffer requirements, with input from the Forestry Commission. To be presented at a future meeting. - Board Term Alignment: Committee directed staff to draft an ordinance reducing board member terms to two years, with a six-month transition period for new council members, and allowing removal by the appointing council member and majority council vote. - Hwy 544 Overlay Ordinance (removing Dick Pond Road): Deferred to allow council members to discuss with the district's representative. - Heavy Manufacturing Ordinance (adding general grinding operations): Approved unanimously. The amendment clarifies that general grinding operations (e.g., mulching, concrete recycling) are permitted in Heavy Industrial (HI) and MA3 districts, subject to existing noise ordinances. - Conveyance of Excess Right-of-Way to The Lakes POA: Approved unanimously, authorizing the County Administrator to execute a quitclaim deed for unused portions of access roads. - Executive Session: The committee entered executive session to discuss contractual arrangements involving airport facilities and legal advice. No decisions or votes were taken.

The Horry County Council held its regular meeting on February 4, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers. The meeting was called to order by Chairman Johnny Gardner, followed by an invocation by Dr. Jenna Dukes and the Pledge of Allegiance led by Tyler Servant. No members of the public signed up for public input. The agenda and minutes from the January 21, 2025 regular meeting were approved unanimously. Consent Calendar - Third Reading – Ordinance 109-2024 to amend the Future Land Use Map from Suburban to Rural Communities for PIN 25800000003. - Third Reading – Ordinance 110-2024 to rezone PIN 25800000003 from Commercial Forest Agriculture (CFA) and Forest Agriculture (FA) to Multi-Residential (MRD 1) for up to 65 single-family homes. - Third Reading – Ordinance 150-2024 to rezone PIN 44003040002 from Commercial Forest Agriculture (CFA) to Residential (SF 10) for an additional home. - Third Reading – Ordinances 01-2025, 02-2025, 03-2025, and 04-2025 approving various rezoning requests: (01) from RE 3 to RE 4 for a storage building; (02) from LFA to AG 2 for RV and boat storage; (03) from FA to AG 2 for a 10,640 sq ft retail store; (04) from CFA to MSF 20 for an additional home. All consent agenda items passed unanimously. Presentations & Recognitions - Employee Service Recognition: Assistant County Administrator David Gilreath recognized employees with 30+ years of service. Tammy Barnhill was honored for 30 years of service (retired that week), and Sheriff Thompson was recognized for 45 years of service, including his tenure as Sheriff since 2001 and awards such as South Carolina Sheriff of the Year. - Youth Football Championship: The North Strand Recreation 10-and-under youth football team and their coaches were recognized for winning the South Carolina Athletic Program State Championship. Nicole Herrera, Deputy Director of Recreation, presented the recognition. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public signed up to speak during the public input period or during the public hearing for second-reading ordinances. Discussion Items - Second Reading & Public Hearing – Six Rezoning Ordinances: Chairman Gardner read the following ordinances as a group: Ord 06-2025 (Venture Engineering, agent for Timothy D. Rivito and RV Rescue, LLC – rezone to SF 40); Ord 09-2025 (Diamond Shores, agent for JMB Pine, LLC – rezone from MSF 10 to MSF 6); Ord 11-2025 (Earthworks, agent for Acie V. Blake Jr. et al. – rezone from MHP to MSF 6); Ord 12-2025 (Venture Engineering, agent for Jessie E. McKnight et al. – rezone from MHP to RE 4); Ord 13-2025 (Brenda Gerald Rowell et al. – rezone from FA to MSF 10); and Ord 14-2025 (Benjamin T. DeLamar, agent for MyKayla G. Melton & Alice L. DeLamar – rezone from SF 20/SF 14.5 to RE 1 for a daycare). No public testimony was offered. Council voted unanimously to approve all six ordinances (second reading). - Memorial Dedications: Council members read the names of deceased individuals to be honored, including Frank Barnhill, Jake Beasler, Irene Lambert, Bobby Jean Woodle, Charles Purvis, Desse Wright, Suzanne Shelley, Irvin Way William Wade Jr., John Mills Graham, James Hayward Housend, Christopher Michael Ship, Margaret Chatham Adam Ammons, Naomi Robinson, and Cynthia Hernandez (struck and killed on Clay Pond Road). - Upcoming Meetings: Chairman Gardner noted upcoming meetings (subject to change): I&R Committee on Feb 11 at 9 a.m., Public Safety Committee on Feb 11 at 11 a.m., Administration Committee on Feb 25 at 1 p.m., and Council Meeting on Feb 18 at 6 p.m. Councilman Al Allen announced that the Feb 11 I&R meeting will include a presentation by the State Chief Forest Management Officer and State Forestry Attorney to discuss options regarding zoning and clear-cutting. Key Outcomes - All consent agenda items (five ordinances) received final unanimous approval. - All six second-reading ordinances were advanced to third reading with unanimous approval. - The meeting adjourned without an executive session after completing all business. Memorial dedications were entered into the record.

Chairman Johnny Gardner called the regular meeting to order at approximately 6:00 p.m. on January 21, 2025. The meeting addressed a range of zoning ordinances, a state of emergency declaration for an impending snow event, and the election of a new Vice Chairman. All 12 council members were present. No public comments were received. Consent Calendar - Approved the consent agenda as amended, which included third readings for several ordinances and a resolution transferring funds for airport audio system upgrades, as well as first readings for various zoning map amendments. Councilmember Michael Masciarelli requested to be recorded as a no vote on Ordinance 153-2024. The consent agenda passed 9-1. Public Comments & Testimony - None. No members of the public signed up to speak. Discussion Items - Emergency Ordinance – Local State of Emergency: Council unanimously passed an emergency ordinance declaring a localized state of emergency due to an impending snow event, effective 7:00 p.m. that evening. Randy Webster (Public Safety) noted preparations had been made and the declaration would support response efforts. - Third Reading – Wild Game Processing (Ordinance 155-2024): Council approved an ordinance to allow wild game processing in FA, CFA, AG1, and AG2 zoning districts, with an amendment requiring all processing be conducted within a fully enclosed structure. The motion passed as amended unanimously. - Second Reading – Comprehensive Plan Amendment and Rezoning (Ordinances 109-2024 & 110-2024): Two linked ordinances to amend the Future Land Use Map from Suburban to Rural Communities and rezone a 32.66-acre parcel from CFA/FA to MRD-1 for 65 single-family homes. Passed unanimously. - Second Reading – Rezoning to SF-10 (Ordinance 150-2024): A motion to defer consideration of this rezoning failed (vote count not clear, but recorded as 9-1 against deferral). The underlying ordinance then passed 9-1 with one nay. Councilmember DiSabato supported moving forward per the district councilmember’s request. - Second Reading – Four Rezoning Ordinances (01-2025, 02-2025, 03-2025, 04-2025): All four ordinances to rezone parcels for commercial and residential use were approved unanimously in a single vote. - First Reading – Denied Rezoning (Ordinance 07-2025): Council voted unanimously to deny a rezoning from CFA to MRD-1 for 23 single-family homes due to safety concerns about a bad curve on Cates Bay Highway and strong public opposition. - First Reading – Deferred Rezoning (Ordinance 08-2025): A rezoning from FA to RE-4 for a self-serve gas station was deferred unanimously. - First Reading – Denied Rezoning (Ordinance 10-2025): Council voted unanimously to deny a rezoning from LFA to MRD-P for 147 homes after the applicant withdrew, with opposition citing traffic, flooding, and density concerns. - First Reading – Approved Rezoning (Ordinance 14-2025): Council approved a rezoning from residential to RE-1 for a daycare facility on Highway 90, despite public opposition. Councilmember Hardee noted the need for daycare services in the area. Passed unanimously. - Election of Vice Chairman: Council unanimously elected Dennis DiSabato as Vice Chairman for 2025. - Executive Session and Settlement Agreement: Council entered executive session to discuss legal matters and subsequently voted unanimously to approve a settlement agreement discussed in that session. Key Outcomes - Emergency Declaration: Approved (unanimous) – effective immediately. - Wild Game Processing Ordinance: Approved as amended (unanimous). - Comprehensive Plan Amendment and Rezoning (109 & 110): Approved (unanimous). - Rezoning to SF-10 (150-2024): Approved 9-1. - Four Rezoning Ordinances (01-04-2025): Approved (unanimous). - Denied Rezoning (07-2025): Denied (unanimous). - Deferred Rezoning (08-2025): Deferred (unanimous). - Denied Rezoning (10-2025): Denied (unanimous). - Approved Rezoning (14-2025): Approved (unanimous). - Vice Chairman Elected: Dennis DiSabato (unanimous). - Settlement Agreement: Approved (unanimous).

Chairman Johnny Gardner opened the meeting with a State of the County address, highlighting accomplishments in 2024 including public safety improvements, new fire stations, a record-breaking year for Myrtle Beach International Airport, the Triple A bond rating, and the voter-approved RIDE 4 infrastructure program. The meeting proceeded with a consent agenda, presentations, second readings and public hearings on numerous rezoning and ordinance amendments, and other business. No public comments were made during the public input period. Consent Calendar - Approved as amended: The consent agenda included three third-readings (Ordinances 137-2024, 138-2024, 139-2024, 140-2024, 141-2024), first readings (Ordinance 109-2024, and several rezoning ordinances), and resolutions. Ordinance 05-2025 was pulled from consent by Councilman Allen and moved to regular readings. Ordinance 150-2024 was reconsidered and moved to the end of the agenda. The consent agenda passed unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Jesse Houtz was signed up to speak but did not provide comments; the public input period was closed immediately. Discussion Items - State of the County Address: Chairman Gardner reviewed 2024 achievements, including over 320,000 calls handled by 911, three new fire stations opened, record passenger counts at the airport, the Triple A bond rating, and the RIDE 4 program approved by 56.78% of voters. - Presentation – 30 Years of Service: Randy Webster recognized Janice Queen for 40 years of service with the county (magistrate’s office), noting it was also her birthday. - Second Readings & Public Hearings: - Ordinance 142-2024 (Eagle Trace Special Tax District) – Passed unanimously. - Ordinance 143-2024 (Diamond Shores/KA Benton Holdings rezoning) – Passed as amended (unanimous). - Ordinance 144-2024 (Melinda Johnson Cavallini rezoning to AG2) – Failed unanimously. Councilman Causey expressed concerns about traffic and stormwater impacts from nearby North Carolina developments. - Ordinance 145-2024 (Christopher K. Lawrence rezoning to MSF 20) – Passed unanimously. - Ordinance 146-2024 (Randy L. Skipper rezoning to MSF 20) – Passed unanimously. - Ordinance 147-2024 (Racheal Zupcic/Beach Family Worship Center rezoning to RE1) – Passed unanimously. - Ordinance 148-2024 (DRG/Conway Hospital rezoning to ME1) – Passed unanimously. - Ordinance 149-2024 (Earthworks/Palmetto Shores Church rezoning to RE4) – Passed 11-1. - Ordinance 151-2024 (Diamond Shores/Kelly Royals Hardee rezoning to MA2) – Passed unanimously. - Ordinance 152-2024 (G3 Engineering/Silver Palmetto Development rezoning to PA1) – Passed unanimously. - Ordinance 153-2024 (David Curry/Curry Family Holdings rezoning to RE4) – Passed 11-1. - Ordinance 154-2024 (Amend Chapter 18, Land Development Regulations) – Passed unanimously. - Ordinance 155-2024 (Amend Zoning Ordinance for wild game processing) – Passed unanimously. - First Reading – Ordinance 150-2024 (Rezoning PIN 44003040002 from CFA to SF 10) – Passed unanimously. - Ordinance 05-2025 (Tyler Thomas/Sellers General Construction rezoning to MA2) – Tabled by motion of Councilman Allen pending further information and code compliance. - Old Business – Standing Committee Assignments: Chairman Gardner announced that committee assignments would remain unchanged. - Memorial Dedications: Council members read names of deceased community members, including Charles Everett Brown, M.D. Carmichael, and others. - Executive Session: Council entered executive session to discuss negotiations incident to proposed contractual arrangements. No decisions or votes were taken. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda approved as amended. - Ordinance 142-2024 (Eagle Trace Special Tax District) passed on second reading. - Ordinance 143-2024 (KA Benton Holdings rezoning) passed as amended. - Ordinance 144-2024 (Johnson/Cavallini rezoning) failed unanimously. - Ordinances 145-2024, 146-2024, 147-2024, 148-2024 passed unanimously. - Ordinance 149-2024 passed 11-1. - Ordinances 151-2024, 152-2024 passed unanimously. - Ordinance 153-2024 passed 11-1. - Ordinances 154-2024, 155-2024 passed unanimously. - Ordinance 150-2024 passed first reading. - Ordinance 05-2025 was tabled. - Committee assignments remained unchanged. - Executive session held with no action taken.

On December 12, 2024, the Horry County Council convened for a fall planning retreat at the MPR B/C/E in Conway, SC. The retreat focused on the FY 2026 budget process, strategic issues, and key action items. Council members received updates on finances, capital improvements, public safety, transportation, and other county operations, and provided direction for the upcoming budget. Discussion Items - FY 2024 Financial Update & Five-Year Forecast – Chief Financial Officer Shannon Todd reported that the General Fund ended FY 2024 with revenues of $271 million (exceeding budget by $19 million) and expenditures of $220 million (under budget by $24 million), adding $25.6 million to fund balance, bringing the total to $160.7 million. Other funds (fire, road maintenance, stormwater, recreation, waste management) also showed positive net changes. The five-year forecast appears generally positive, with some yellow flags for fire apparatus replacement and potential state reduction in E911 funding. - Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) / Debt Service – Jamie Norman presented the 10-year CIP totaling $477 million, including major projects such as the Preswick Fire Station, detention center renovations, and recreation centers. No bond issuances are planned for FY 2025; all projects funded with cash on hand. Future debt issuances are projected within existing debt millage. - Airport Update – Judi Olmstead reported on completed projects (rental car booths, fire truck, expanded parking) and ongoing work (parking lot E, new hangars, terminal expansion scheduled for completion around Christmas 2025). The airport requested 22 new positions due to 14.2% passenger traffic growth. - SC Opioid Recovery Fund (SCORF) Update – Beth Tranter highlighted that Horry County received $2.9 million from the opioid fund board and an additional $3.1 million in external grants. Programs include harm reduction specialists (2,000+ individuals served since Nov 2023), crisis intervention team (1,746 contacts since April 2024), treatment court expansion (40% increase in participation), and Next Steps program for female inmates. A multi-jurisdictional planning effort is underway. - American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Update – Beth Tranter reviewed completed projects (Oak Tree Farm housing, Habitat for Humanity land acquisitions, water/sewer improvements) and proposed set-asides: $750,000 for New Directions women's shelter expansion and $250,000 for The Compass Community, plus $750,000 from ARPA interest for Racepath Neighborhood Revitalization. Council later approved these as part of Resolution R-142-2024. - Public Safety Update – Randy Webster reported rising call volumes: Horry County Fire Rescue projected to exceed 83,000 calls for FY 2025; E911 handled 457,000 incoming calls in FY 2024; police department has 48 vacancies; animal care center at 100% capacity. A public safety training facility design is underway, and a detention center space needs assessment is in progress. - RIDE III & IV Update – David Gilreath and Jason Thompson reported that RIDE III projects are progressing (Carolina Forest Boulevard widening, etc.) and RIDE IV passed in November 2024 with 56.78% support, continuing the sales tax for 25 years or $6.6 billion. Discussion included concerns about Highway 31 extension requiring North Carolina cooperation; council directed staff to explore delaying that project until North Carolina commits funding. Council also expressed interest in bringing RIDE program in-house (Horry County managing projects directly) to keep funds local. - Local Road Plan Funding – Andy Markunas presented that the paved road network is in excellent condition (less than 5% in poor condition). RIDE IV will provide additional resurfacing funding, pushing the need for a road fee increase out to about 2032-2034. Discussion included proactive incremental fee increases to smooth future costs. The road fee lawsuit is still pending with an unfavourable decision; staff will brief council after January 9, 2025. - ADA Website Compliance – Justin Schools reported that the county must comply with WCAG 2.1 by April 24, 2026. The county is ahead of schedule, having already updated font sizes and color contrast. Vendor selection expected by end of 2024, with full compliance by early 2025. - Hospitality Update – Barry Spivey reviewed the hospitality fund: $157 million collected to date, $94 million in revenue, $62 million in debt issued. Unspent balance of $31.7 million awaits council direction on new projects. Major projects include Augusta Plantation Interchange ($100 million, funded by RIDE IV), Tadlock Intersection, and Socastee Rural Civic Center. - Strategic Issues & Budget Guidance – Council confirmed priorities: maintain current level of service (requires adding 110-120 employees), prioritize market salary adjustments to retain workforce, and consider service level gaps only if additional revenue (millage increase) is identified. Council also expressed support for adopting a vacancy variance policy to more accurately budget for expected vacancies, and for pursuing a local option sales tax (if legally permissible) to provide tax relief and generate new revenue. - Legislative Platform – Staff outlined legislative priorities including state infrastructure bank funding (especially after Charleston County referendum failure), local option sales tax eligibility, insurance cost relief, and mental health services expansion. Council emphasized that securing state infrastructure money should be the top priority. - Wetland Mitigation Bank – Announced that the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers approved the Horry County wetland bank on November 25, 2024. The bank, located on International Drive, will provide credits for future projects. A mulcher has been purchased for firebreak installation; initial credit release expected soon. Key Outcomes - Resolution R-142-2024 (Designation of ARPA Projects) – Approved unanimously. The resolution transfers $1,000,000 in ARPA funding to homelessness efforts ($750,000 to New Directions for women's shelter expansion, $250,000 to The Compass Community) and $750,000 from ARPA interest funds to the Racepath Neighborhood Revitalization Plan. - Resolution R-143-2024 (Debris Reserve Increase) – Approved unanimously. The resolution authorizes the County Administrator to commit $2.5 million from the Waste Management Recycling Fund’s unassigned fund balance to further fund the disaster debris reserve. - Staff Direction – Council directed staff to: (1) maintain current service levels and prioritize market salary adjustments within projected revenues; (2) develop a vacancy variance policy for inclusion in the FY 2026 budget; (3) explore the feasibility of a local option sales tax referendum; (4) continue legislative advocacy for state infrastructure bank funding; (5) accelerate planning for the detention center space needs study and potential integration with the public safety training facility; and (6) update the strategic plan and bring recommendations to the spring budget retreat. - RIDE Program – Council expressed strong interest in transitioning to an in-house management model for RIDE IV to keep local funds and contracts within Horry County. Staff will provide a detailed plan and cost analysis. The retreat concluded with the two actions and a reminder of upcoming commemorative events: America250 (July 4, 2026) and Horry225 (December 19, 2026).