North Myrtle Beach’s Legal Dispute Over Beach Gear Rentals Comes to an End

North Myrtle Beach Legal Battle Wraps Up

In the beautiful city of North Myrtle Beach, a legal dispute that has been brewing for years has finally come to a close. It’s been an eventful journey for local business Cherry Grove Beach Gear and the city itself, and we’re here to break it all down for you. Grab your favorite beach drink and settle in as we dive into the details!

What Happened?

So, here’s the scoop. Earlier this week, U.S. District Judge Joseph Dawson, III ruled that the City of North Myrtle Beach did not violate any antitrust laws. This ruling came after a lawsuit was filed by the owners of Cherry Grove Beach Gear, Derek and Jacqueline Calhoun, back in 2022. The couple claimed that an ordinance the city put in place was unconstitutional because it essentially created a monopoly on the rental of beach gear.

Now, this ordinance allowed only one franchised business the exclusive rights to set up rental equipment, including those comfy beach chairs and handy umbrellas that make a day on the beach all the more enjoyable. Can you imagine trying to chill at the beach without a spot to sit? That would be a bummer!

The Numbers Game

Derek and Jacqueline found themselves in a tight spot, reportedly racking up thousands of dollars in fines because of this ordinance. Meanwhile, the city was pulling in a cool $3 million per year from beach rentals. Yikes! That’s some serious cash flow, and it’s easy to see why the couple felt they were getting the short end of the stick.

City’s Response

In response to the recent ruling, the city issued a statement expressing their commitment to ensuring the well-being of both residents and visitors. They emphasized that North Myrtle Beach is growing stronger every day and is a prime destination for millions looking for fun in the sun. The city wants all local businesses to flourish while adhering to established laws. Their statement said, “We want all businesses to thrive in our community, but they must adhere to laws and regulations put into place for the safety and well-being of our citizens and visitors.”

What’s Next?

Here’s where it gets interesting! The lawsuit was dismissed without prejudice, which means that the Calhouns could potentially refile it if they choose. So, this saga might not be quite over yet. It’s certainly a point of consideration for anyone involved in the beach rental game here in North Myrtle Beach.

Wrap Up

As this chapter comes to a close, it serves as a reminder of just how important local regulations can be in a bustling community like ours. As beach lovers and business owners navigate the sunny shores of North Myrtle Beach, it’s clear that there’s a lot to think about when it comes to rules and rights in this popular vacation spot. With the summer season just around the corner, it will be interesting to see how this plays out and what impact it might have on all our favorite beach days.

Whatever the outcome, we’re all in this together. Whether you’re lounging under an umbrella or renting that perfect beach setup, let’s keep the conversation going and support all our local businesses. Here’s to sunny days ahead!