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North Myrtle Beach Approves Bold $211 Million Budget for 2026

Overview of infrastructure and development in North Myrtle Beach

News Summary

North Myrtle Beach is set to implement a $211.3 million budget for the fiscal year 2026, ensuring no increase in millage rate for homeowners. Key areas of investment include $34 million for water and sewer projects, enhanced public safety funding, and salary increases for city employees. A new $10 million fire and police station is also planned, alongside a $36 million expansion of the Sports & Tourism Park. This ambitious budget highlights the city’s commitment to growth and community safety.

North Myrtle Beach Takes a Bold Step with $211 Million Budget for 2026!

In a move that has residents buzzing with excitement, North Myrtle Beach is stepping up its game with a whopping approximately $211.3 million budget for the fiscal year 2026! And guess what? There’s good news on the tax front—no increase in the millage rate is planned, making it a win-win for homeowners.

Where’s the Money Going?

A big chunk of this budget, over $34 million, is earmarked for essential water and sewer capital projects. With the city growing, it’s crucial to ensure that our infrastructure keeps up. Public safety is also getting a significant boost, with expenses skyrocketing by more than $2 million. This increase reflects the city’s commitment to keeping our community safe.

The proposed budget will be subject to a vote by the city council in June 2025. If all goes smoothly, it will come into play on July 1, 2025. This follows last year’s budget, which also raised eyebrows with its size, clocking in at $177.9 million. So, we’ve got a solid increase of about $30 million this time around, showing just how committed the city is to progress.

Employee Salaries on the Rise

For those working for the city, there’s more good news. A proposed 5% salary increase is on the table for city employees, all based on performance rather than a straight-up cost of living adjustment. This aligns with North Myrtle Beach’s goal to reward hard work and dedication.

Beyond just salary hikes, police officers will also receive a sweet $2,500 bonus at the start of the fiscal year. Plus, eight new uniformed officers are set to join the ranks, with their costs covered by a federal grant for the first three years. It’s all about enhancing community safety!

Boosting the Community with New Stations

Another exciting plan in the works is a new $10 million fire and police station to serve the Water Tower Road area. As the city expands, so does the need for more facilities that cater to our first responders.

Residential Fees and Rates Adjustments

While the budget offers some financial relief, there are a few tweaks to residential fees. Solid waste fees are set to increase by $2, bringing the total to $24/month for residents. Water and sewer rates are also seeing adjustments, with increases of nine and twelve cents per 1,000 gallons, respectively. It’s essential to keep our resources sustainable, after all!

The Future Looks Bright with Staff Increases

North Myrtle Beach is investing in its future by planning to increase its total full-time staff from 483 to 505 positions. This means more roles in public safety and administration, contributing to better service for everyone.

Sports and Tourism Expansion

But wait, there’s more! A $36 million expansion of the North Myrtle Beach Sports & Tourism Park is also in the pipeline. This ambitious project is partly funded by a general obligation bond, and it promises to drive tourism while benefiting our local businesses. More sports events mean more visitors—and more excitement!

In Summary

North Myrtle Beach is clearly taking steps towards growth and improvement with its proposed $211 million budget for 2026. With no tax hikes, salary increases for dedicated city employees, investments in public safety, and plans for new facilities, it’s an exciting time to be a resident of this thriving coastal community. Here’s to a bright future in North Myrtle Beach!