Myrtle Beach Moving Forward: A Record of Results

When I first ran for mayor, I promised to make Myrtle Beach safer, strengthen our economy, revitalize our downtown, and bring more transparency to City Hall. Almost eight years later, I am proud of the results we have achieved together. Violent crime is at its lowest point in years. Our economy is growing, bringing new jobs and opportunities while keeping property taxes among the lowest in South Carolina. Downtown is coming back to life with new businesses, restaurants, and events, and we have made smart investments in infrastructure and public spaces to support that growth. Most importantly, Myrtle Beach is in the strongest financial position in recent history, giving us a solid foundation for the future.

This progress did not happen by accident. It is the result of a community that works together, listens to one another, and stays focused on building a city that is safe, welcoming, and full of opportunity.

Public Safety: Always My Top Priority

Violent crime down nearly 50 percent over the past decade
More officers and better pay with up to 55 percent raises since 2021 to recruit and retain the best
New tools and technology including license plate readers, citywide cameras, gunfire detection, a real time crime center, and virtual reality training
Gold Cap Ambassadors providing added safety, cleanliness, and hospitality downtown
Increased lighting and safety design along Ocean Boulevard
Always supported full funding for public safety

Economic Growth and Jobs

Created the city’s first Economic Development Officer position to lead business recruitment and retention
Launched the Living Lab and HTC Aspire Hub, attracting innovators from four countries
Welcomed DC BLOX’s Cable Landing Station and data center, connecting Myrtle Beach to global markets
Engaged regularly with business owners and residents to shape policy
Maintained one of the lowest property tax rates in South Carolina
Kept the city in its strongest financial position in years through responsible budgeting

Downtown Revitalization

Adopted and advancing the Downtown Master Plan
Attracted $25+ million in private investment since 2019
Arts and Innovation District rebounding with new restaurants, the HTC Aspire Hub, a brewery, and a performing arts center under construction
Major infrastructure upgrades including the 501 realignment and new roadways
Business facade improvements throughout downtown
Year round events and festivals to activate public spaces
Preserved historic buildings while encouraging new development that fits our vision

Infrastructure Investments

Major road projects for safety, traffic flow, and walkability including Arts and Innovation District improvements and support for the Carolina Bays Parkway extension
24th Avenue North deepwater ocean outfall replacing 11 stormwater pipes and keeping beaches clean
Citywide stormwater upgrades, retention ponds, and drainage improvements to prevent flooding
Over $25 million invested in The Market Common for lighting, trees, walk paths, parking garage, security cameras, Warbird Park restrooms, Savannah’s Playground, and memorial enhancements

Listening and Transparency

Live streamed City Council meetings and workshops
Monthly in depth Council Workshops to explain projects and decisions
Weekly newsletter from me and the city’s Friday Fax to keep residents informed
Regular neighborhood and business district meetings to hear directly from residents

Looking Ahead

Develop a Business Facade Improvement Plan. This may include offering financial and design assistance to our small commercial property owners in the Superblock area. Other cities have adopted this concept successfully and we can use their models to help us establish our own plan.
Enhance the appearance of our buildings that will ultimately increase property values. The more aesthetically pleasing our businesses are the more businesses we can attract to invest in our community.