Conway Council Discusses Sea Turtle Rehabilitation and Monkey Ownership

News Summary

At the annual budget retreat held in Rock Hill, SC, Conway city council discussed a proposed sea turtle rehabilitation center and potential changes to ordinances regarding monkey ownership. Local graduates proposed the turtle center to provide immediate care locally, while the idea of allowing monkeys in the city stirred mixed reactions among council members. The council is also focused on balancing the budget before the fiscal year deadline. Exciting developments are on the horizon for Conway.

The City of Conway Explores Exciting New Initiatives at Annual Budget Retreat

On March 6-7, 2025, the city of Conway rolled up its sleeves at the annual budget retreat held in picturesque Rock Hill, South Carolina. With an eye on the future, council members engaged in lively discussions about a couple of intriguing proposals: the establishment of a sea turtle rehabilitation center and discussions around an ordinance about monkey ownership within city limits. Yes, you read that right – monkeys!

A Sea Turtle Sanctuary in the Making

In a heartwarming turn of events, local graduates from Coastal Carolina University, Taylor Garretson and Elissa Plocinik, pitched the idea of creating a sea turtle rehabilitation center right here in Conway. Unlike many attractions that draw tourists, this proposed center would serve as a serious science facility focused on the welfare of our shelled friends. The duo is already in the process of finalizing paperwork at both the state and federal levels, showing how committed they are to turning this dream into reality.

During discussions at the retreat, council members seemed quite supportive of this initiative. It seems everyone was on the same page when it came to the benefits this center could bring. According to a city administrator, there are currently just two facilities in South Carolina dedicated to caring for sea turtles – Ripley’s Aquarium in Myrtle Beach and the Sea Turtle Care Center in Charleston. Unfortunately, many turtles that need help die during transport to these facilities, and the Conway center could help save lives by providing local, immediate care.

One council member pointed out that the situation is dire for injured turtles when transported long distances. It’s not just about saving turtles; this center could eventually house a veterinary facility and an operating room, placing Conway at the forefront of sea turtle rehabilitation in the state. Plus, an educational component for children could help raise awareness and promote marine conservation!

Monkey Business in the Council Chamber

Time to Balance the Budget

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Additional Resources

• My Horry News: City of Conway Budget Retreat
• World Atlas: Unconventional Towns in South Carolina
• Carolina Coast Online: Local Regional News
• Santee Cooper: Storm Center and Outages
• Myrtle Beach Online: Local News
• Wikipedia: Sea Turtle
• Google Search: Monkey Ownership Laws
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Monkey