Myrtle Beach City Council Takes Big Steps Forward!
It was a lively Tuesday evening on Oct. 8 as the Myrtle Beach City Council gathered to discuss some hefty financial moves that could change the landscape of our beloved beach town. The councilors were back in action after a previous meeting where an ordinance got a bit stuck in the mud. But it looks like they found their footing and are ready to stride ahead!
A New Bond on the Horizon
So, what exactly is the scoop? Well, the council members voted 5-2 in favor of issuing an $81 million bond. Yes, that’s right—eighty-one million big ones! This funding plan will help tackle several important projects in our community. The breakdown goes like this:
- $40 million to pay off existing 2014 bonds,
- $20 million dedicated to sprucing up the Myrtle Beach Convention Center, and
- $16.5 million for infrastructure and parking upgrades in the Arts and Innovation District.
What’s in the Plan?
City Manager Fox Simons provided some insight during the meeting, assuring everyone that a significant chunk of this bond—almost half—is about refinancing existing debt, much like you would when you get a better rate on your home mortgage. This refinancing is expected to save us around $5 million in costs. Now that’s what we call a smart financial move!
When it comes to the Convention Center, improvements are on deck, including repairs for leaking skylights, cool new upgrades to the façade, new ceiling tiles, fresh carpeting, and more vibrant lighting. If you’ve been to any event in the Convention Center, you know how needed these updates are!
But it doesn’t stop there! Mayor Brenda Bethune emphasized that the work in the Arts and Innovation District goes beyond décor. Sure, it’ll look great, but it’s also about increasing stormwater capacity to prevent flooding and improve conditions for surrounding areas. That’s a win-win for everyone!
What’s Next?
Now, before you get too excited, keep in mind that this bond issuance still has a couple of steps to go through. The ordinance needs to pass two readings, and it made it through the first reading without a hitch on the 8th. So fingers crossed for the next meeting!
As for the voting, not every member was on board with the plan. Councilors Bill McClure and Mike Lowder voted against the bond issuance, so it’ll be worth watching how this plays out in future discussions.
Final Thoughts
It’s clear that Myrtle Beach is taking some bold steps to invest in our community. Whether it’s enhancing the Convention Center or improving our neighborhoods, it’s all about making our town a better place for residents and visitors alike.
So, Myrtle Beach, what do you think about these proposed changes? Are you excited for a revitalized Convention Center and cleaner streets? Let’s keep the conversations going. Make sure to tune into the council’s next meeting and see what unfolds—we’re all in this together!
