Myrtle Beach Sheraton Hotel Secures Essential 60-Day Contract Extension Amid Franchise Agreement Negotiations

Myrtle Beach Hotel Gets Crucial Contract Extension

You know what they say about time – sometimes you just need a little more of it! Well, that’s exactly what the City of Myrtle Beach has just granted the downtown Sheraton hotel. You might have caught wind that this beloved spot was just days away from closing its doors due to a looming contract deadline. But fear not, local residents, our trusty City Council stepped in and voted unanimously to bump the contract negotiations between the Myrtle Beach Convention Center Hotel Corporation and the Sheraton by an additional 60 days!

What’s the Scoop?

During a spirited meeting on Tuesday, Myrtle Beach’s Chief Financial Officer, Michelle Shumpert, dropped some important nuggets of information. The reason for this contract extension? Simply put, the parties are still ironing out a few details of the franchise agreement. Without the Sheraton flag flying high outside the hotel, Shumpert warned that they would be forced to shut down operations.

Now, how did we get here? Well, the Myrtle Beach Convention Center Hotel Corporation, which has owned the hotel for around 23 years, has been in talks about renegotiating their franchise agreement. Shumpert emphasized how close they are to a resolution but just need a tad more time. Meanwhile, a voicemail left for the hotel’s General Manager, Suzanne Hinde, echoes the same sentiment: “The parties are still in negotiation over a few details of the franchise agreement…”

Community Input Matters

During the City Council meeting, resident Dustin Ritter raised a flag (pun intended!) about transparency in these negotiations. He expressed concerns over the debt associated with the convention center hotel and noted the difficulties in accessing meeting minutes online, making it tough for residents to stay informed. It’s clear that folks around here care about what happens in their city, and they want to make sure these discussions aren’t conducted behind closed doors!

Future Plans and More

Looking ahead, Councilman Bill McClure asked Shumpert if they would need another extension after the current one wraps up on November 30. She responded optimistically, saying that they are “close enough” to get the agreement in front of the City Council in time for their November meetings. Fingers crossed!

Additionally, do you remember hearing anything about an $81 million proposal thrown out earlier this month? That money could be used to spruce up our beloved Myrtle Beach Convention Center and enhance the downtown Arts and Innovation District. It would also help refinance some existing debts. However, Council member Gregg Smith‘s motion to push this forward didn’t gather any second votes, leaving that conversation hanging in the air. Mayor Brenda Bethune acknowledged that a workshop might be necessary to clarify this for everyone moving forward.

Modernization Moves

On top of all this, the Sheraton Myrtle Beach is undergoing a room modernization project that started on September 8, 2024, and will continue through May 31, 2025. While this work is underway, you can still enjoy all the hotel’s facilities, but keep in mind that noise might be part of the stay from 9 AM to 6 PM, Monday through Saturday.

As our vibrant community continues to grow and evolve, it’s heartening to see the city take steps to ensure that essential services and beloved local spots remain open and kicking. So, Myrtle Beach, let’s keep our fingers crossed while these negotiations continue, and hope for some good news soon!