PINOPOLIS, S.C. – North Myrtle Beach City Council Members held the City’s annual budget retreat on Monday and Tuesday.
Multiple issues for the fiscal year 2024 were discussed. Total budgeted expenditures for 2024 are projected to be approximately $174 million. Taxes are not expected to be raised. Rate increases for significant revenues are also not expected.
Major projects for 2024 include:
• The construction of Fire Station 7
• Construction on Champions Boulevard
• Funding for RTA Summer Routes
• Funding for the North Myrtle Beach Humane Society
• 30 new Firefighters awaiting grant approval
• Eight new Police Officer positions
• Completing the 18th Avenue North Ocean Outfall Project
• Expansion of the NMB Park & Sports Complex
Randy Wright, Finance Director, said taxes for residents will not be raised for these projects. Wright says the millage rate is projected to remain at 45 mils.
Mike Mahaney, the North Myrtle Beach City Manager, said construction of Fire Station 7 off Water Tower Road will help keep insurance rates low for new companies that are located there or planning to locate in the industrial park.
The expansion of the North Myrtle Beach Park & Sports Complex will include a new splash park, Family Entertainment Center, and new ball fields. Plans include six new baseball/softball fields. There will also be five multipurpose fields for soccer, lacrosse, Ultimate Frisbee, etc. The expansion will mean the North Myrtle Beach Park and Sports Complex will grow to more than 250 acres. New pickleball courts at the J. Bryan Floyd Community Center are also proposed.
Other items discussed during the workshop, but not a part of the proposed budget include Fire Station 6, which will house the North Myrtle Beach Emergency Operation Center. The EOC is designed to withstand a Category 5 hurricane. An expansion of the North Myrtle Beach Aquatics and Fitness Center was also discussed, along with additional fire trucks.