Myrtle Beach Honors Steve Gosnell with Order of the Palmetto Ahead of Retirement

Myrtle Beach Celebrates a Local Legend: Steve Gosnell Receives Order of the Palmetto

Last week, the sun shined just a little brighter here in Myrtle Beach as Horry County Administrator Steve Gosnell was honored with the prestigious Order of the Palmetto, South Carolina’s highest civilian award. With a remarkable 31 years of dedicated service to our community, Gosnell is not just leaving behind a legacy but a transformed Horry County as he prepares for retirement this December.

A Journey of Dedication

When Steve first joined Horry County back in 1993, he hit the ground running as a talented engineer. Over the years, he worked his way up, becoming the assistant county administrator focused on infrastructure and regulation before ultimately taking the reins as county administrator. Imagine being part of the team that literally transformed our roads and infrastructure – that’s exactly what Steve has done! The county has seen an incredible leap in employment from 976 to 3,200 over his tenure, which speaks volumes about his impact.

Recognizing Excellence

The award was presented to Gosnell on September 12 by local dignitaries, including South Carolina Rep. Kevin Hardee and Sen. Kent Williams, along with Horry County Chairman Johnny Gardner. In a heartfelt news release, it was noted, “Driving through Horry County today, there is no road you can ride on that Steve and his team have not touched.” What a tribute to his work!

A Bright Future Ahead

As we get ready to say goodbye to one of our county’s stalwarts, it’s also exciting to look ahead. Barry Spivey has been chosen as the next county administrator, and we’re all eager to see how things will unfold under his leadership. Change can be refreshing, and we know Horry County has a bright path ahead.

What Makes Steve Special?

So, what is it about Steve that has made such a lasting impression on our community? It’s more than just time served; it’s his deep-rooted passion for improving the area we call home. He’s always put the residents first, ensuring we have smooth roads, effective infrastructure, and an overall quality of life that makes Myrtle Beach such a wonderful place to live. His commitment is something that we will carry forward, and it’s a big part of his legacy.

Community Love and Appreciation

The outpouring of love and gratitude from our community has been heartwarming. Local residents have shared stories of how Gosnell’s work directly impacted their lives, whether through improved roads or the growth of local employment opportunities. It’s clear that Steve has not only been a hardworking administrator but also a dedicated community member who truly cares about our future.

Looking Backward, Moving Forward

As we reflect on Gosnell’s incredible career, it’s important to recognize how far Horry County has come and the exciting future awaiting us. Thanks to leaders like Steve, our community is thriving, and we have every reason to look ahead with optimism. We’ll miss his steady leadership, but we also know the foundations he built will help propel our county onward.

So, let’s raise a toast (and maybe a beach umbrella) to Steve Gosnell and the incredible impact he has had on our beautiful Horry County. We wish him all the best in his retirement! Here’s to new adventures and warm memories!