RESULTS: August 1 North Myrtle Beach City Council Meeting

North Myrtle Beach, SC – August 2, 2016 – During the August 1 North Myrtle Beach City Council meeting, Council passed second (final) reading of an ordinance to adopt the International Building Code. Standard codes relating to the regulation of construction activities are typically revised every three years.

City Council passed second reading of an ordinance to amend Chapter 20, Land Development Regulations, of the City’s Code of Ordinances. The text amendment to the Land Development Regulations clarifies the process by which private streets may be converted to public streets. Prior to the amendment, the Land Development Regulations addressed construction and acceptance of new public streets, but were silent with respect to the conversion of existing private streets.

To protect the City's financial posture, a procedure for evaluation of these streets is now in effect, requiring maintenance bonds or other measures to bring the streets into an acceptable condition. The condition of such streets will be evaluated by the public works department and, if immediate maintenance or retrofitting of the streets or drainage systems is required, the department will come up with a cost estimate for that work. Then a resolution to convert the private streets to public streets will be considered by City Council, with a recommendation by public works that a maintenance fee be paid in advance. Council will decide whether to assess the fee and/or accept the streets.

City Council passed second reading of an ordinance to amend the Zoning Text Amendment as it pertains to the Main Street Priority Investment Activity Center overlay concerning required parking.

Council tabled until its August 15 meeting second reading of an ordinance to petition rezoning of one lot approximately 6.4 acres in size located on Main Street from HC (Highway Commercial) to PDD (Planned Development District).

Council denied first reading of an ordinance to amend the zoning maps to apply the R-1H (Historic Low Density) overlay zone to three lots located at 519 and 521 21st Avenue North.

Council denied first reading of an ordinance to rezone one lot located at the corner of 33rd Avenue South and Wiley Drive from R-1 (Single FamilyResidential Low-Density) to NC (Neighborhood Commercial).

Council passed first reading of an ordinance to annex and zone one lot located in the Riverside Campground Subdivision. The subject area is identified as Low Density Residential on the Future Land Use Map, which recommends zoning designations of R-1, R-1A and R-18. The proposed zoning designation, R-1, is a recommended zoning district for the subject area.

The property is contiguous to the City limits and is zoned MSF 10 (Single-Family Residential) under Horry County’s jurisdiction. The property is located on Lot 2 within the Riverside Campground Subdivision off Little River Neck Road and occupied by an existing detached single-family house. Surrounding land uses are vacant (Esperanza PDD within North Myrtle Beach's jurisdiction), Fire Station #4 (within North Myrtle Beach's jurisdiction) and single-family residential homes (within both jurisdictions). If annexed, the subject area would be designated as R-1 (Single Family, Low-Density Residential).

Council passed a resolution in support of the completion of the I-73 Corridor in South Carolina. The resolution includes the statement that the North Myrtle Beach City Council “does hereby resolve and reaffirm its unwavering support for I-73 and desire for the U S. Army Corps of Engineers to promptly issue a construction permit enabling I-73, a Pathway of Progress for South Carolina, to finally become a reality.”

A study performed by Coastal Carolina University projects that during the construction of I-73 7,700 new jobs would be created; and a study performed by Chmura Economics & Analytics estimates that the completed roadway would result in the creation of 22,300 new jobs.

Council passed a resolution approving a $1.8 million Letter of Credit for Spoils Basin # 320. On May 16, 2016 the City entered into an agreement with Horry County in order to use its Spoils Basin #320 for temporary storage of material dredged during the Cherry Grove dredging project. The agreement requires the City to provide a letter of credit to the County in the amount of $1.8 million 30 days prior to the initial disposal of material into the basin.

Since the project has moved forward and the assessment district has been established, dredging bids have been received, and financing has been obtained, it is time to acquire the letter of credit. NBSC has agreed to provide the City with the letter of credit for one-quarter percent. The Council resolution was required for the bank to issue the letter of credit.

Council passed a resolution approving an agreement to provide law enforcement assistance to the l5th Circuit Drug Enforcement Unit. The City has been providing police officers to the l5th Circuit Drug Enforcement Unit for several years for the purpose of enforcing laws throughout the County which prohibit criminal activity related to unlawful drugs and controlled substances. The resolution authorizes the City Manager to sign the agreement.

City Council members informally discussed the potential for holding a referendum on a one percent sales tax for out of area tourism marketing. A referendum would give North Myrtle Beach voters the opportunity to decide whether or not they want such a tax. Council members decided that it would be appropriate for the North Myrtle Beach Chamber of Commerce to request a referendum in a letter to City Council, if that is an objective the organization wants to pursue. In May, the Chamber had requested by letter that City Council vote by supermajority to enact the one cent sales tax immediately, but Council elected not to do so.

North Myrtle Beach Chamber of Commerce President Marc Jordan was in attendance at the meeting and told Council that he would bring the idea of a referendum back to his board of directors for discussion.

City Council members also informally discussed the potential for adding protections for heritage trees to the City’s tree ordinance. Council asked staff to compare North Myrtle Beach’s heritage tree requirements with those of other cities, and to return to Council with that information.

RESULTS – May 23 Special Called North Myrtle Beach City Council Meeting

During their May 23 Special Called Meeting, the members of the North Myrtle Beach City Council passed second (final) reading of the city’s FY 2017 Budget. The city’s budget year runs from July 1 to June 30.

The budget includes Governmental Funds (general fund, special revenue funds, capital improvement funds, debt service fund) expenditures of $54,088,271 and Enterprise Funds expenditures of $39,727,931 for a total of $93,816,202 in budgeted expenditures for all funds.

The budget is $13,656,195 million more than the fiscal year FY 2016 budget, due primarily to various street improvements, major water and sewer projects, storm water management improvement initiatives and other projects.

The budget includes a property tax increase of two mills, which will generate about $750,000 annually, primarily to help pay for four new public safety employees and their related equipment, and for enhanced paving and maintenance of the city’s roads. An increase of two mills in the property tax equates to $8 annually for each $100,000 of residential home value.

With the two mils property tax increase, the city’s property tax rate is 41.3 mils, which includes 6.2 mils that will be cut in October 2019 when the bond issue for the construction of the North Myrtle Beach Park & Sports Complex has been paid off. It is still the lowest tax rate in Horry County and one of the lowest in the state.

Currently, Surfside Beach offers a property tax rate of 46.2 mills, Briarcliff Acres 50.8 mills, Horry County 50.87 mills, Aynor 60.8 mills, Myrtle Beach 74.5 mills, Conway 82.4 mills, Atlantic Beach 84.5 mills, Loris 115 mills, and the Horry County School District 133.1 mills.

The budget also includes a $2 increase in the city’s monthly storm water management fee, which will be applied to local storm water improvement projects and will also help fund the next ocean outfall project at 18th Avenue North, construction of which is scheduled to begin in FY 2019 at a cost of about $11 million. The city will have about six ocean outfall projects remaining after the 18th Avenue North project has been completed, and the fee increase will also help to begin to fund those projects.

The storm water management fee was $6 per month for a single family home and has increased to $8 per month. The $4 per month storm water fee for a condo unit was $4 per month and has increased to $5.50 per month.

Some additional highlights of the FY 2017 Budget include the bond issue for the Cherry Grove dredging project; a final payment on a $1.2 million platform fire truck; in-house capital improvement projects; more than $1.5 million in road paving projects; the widening of Ocean Boulevard in the Crescent Beach section; placing overhead utilities underground in the same area; and improvements to 11th Avenue North.

The budget also includes some funding for the start of about $1.7 million in localized storm water improvement projects. The projects represent the city’s response to storm water drainage challenges that arose during the historically heavy rains experienced in North Myrtle Beach during September and October of 2015. Projects that will most likely have to be contracted out have been prioritized into four groups. A fifth group was created that includes projects the city may be able to accomplish using in-house personnel and equipment. Thus far, City Council has determined that the city may be able to tackle many of the storm water projects included in the first two priority groups during FY 2017, with the rest being accomplished in FY 2018 and FY 2019.

The continued addition of sidewalks and multipurpose paths in the city is also part of the budget. Since 1995, the city has installed 34 miles of sidewalks. The FY 2017 Budget includes additional sidewalks and paths for the East Coast Greenway along Water Tower Road near Barefoot Resort & Golf.

City Council passed first reading of an ordinance to amend the zoning ordinance text as it pertains to temporary, seasonal requirements for near-beach parking.

Like other coastal towns and cities, North Myrtle Beach has always been in need of more near-ocean parking opportunities for residents and visitors. This need increases annually as tourism attendance grows, and as residential developments are added within and outside the city limits.

Some business people who own lots in commercial sections of the city, such as Main Street, would like to be able to offer year-round paid parking opportunities within 1,000 feet or less of the oceanfront. These might be attractive to residents and visitors who don’t mind a short walk to the beach and paying for the convenience.

These would be privately owned and operated parking lots. Allowing these property owners to have relief from providing paving, curbing and landscaping within such parking lots may mean the difference between their being able to afford to offer additional parking or not.

City Council also met in Executive Session for a legal briefing regarding the Sandridge Development Agreement. Council did not take any action concerning the agreement.

RESULTS: May 2 North Myrtle Beach City Council Meeting

During the May 2 North Myrtle Beach City Council meeting, Mayor Marilyn Hatley presented a proclamation directing that all flags on City buildings be flown at half-staff on May 15, which is Peace Officers Memorial Day.

Mayor Hatley said that members of the City’s public safety department play an essential role in safeguarding the rights and freedoms for all citizens in the community. She reminded citizens of the duties, responsibilities, hazards and sacrifices of the community’s law enforcement officers.

In 1962, President John F. Kennedy signed a proclamation which designated May 15 as Peace Officers Memorial Day and the week in which that date falls as Police Week. During Police Week, tens of thousands of law enforcement officers from around the world converge on Washington, DC to participate in a number of planned events which honor officers who have paid the ultimate sacrifice.

City Council tabled until its June 6 meeting second reading of an ordinance to annex and zone one lot located adjacent to the Parkway Group PDD (PDD), which is located west of the Intracoastal Waterway. Council wants to wait until an associated Development Agreement has been completed before giving second reading to the proposed annexation and zoning.

City Council tabled until its June 6 meeting second reading of an ordinance for a major amendment to the Parkway Group Planned Development District (PDD) to allow changes to the previously approved phase known as the Waterway Hills Tract and to add a newly annexed area known as the Wilson Chestnut Tract. The area is referred to as “Grande Dunes North” in the PDD, which is located west of the Intracoastal Waterway. Council wants to wait until an associated Development Agreement has been completed before giving second reading to the proposed ordinance.

City Council tabled until its June 6 meeting second reading of an ordinance to amend the Parkway Group Planned Development District (PDD) to allow changes to the previously approved residential tracts known as Seashore Farms and L.L. Chestnut, referred to as “Waterside” in the PDD. Council wants to wait until an associated Development Agreement has been completed before giving second reading of the proposed ordinance

City Council adopted a Resolution to exercise the City's option to extend the lease between the City and Midcon Cable Co. Inc. In April of 2014 the City leased a portion of its warehouse located on the corner of 6th Avenue South and Bay Street to Midcon for a term of two years with an annual lease rate of $156,896. The lease rate increased per a lease formula.

Midcon requested that the City exercise its option to extend the lease for an additional two year term from April 1, 2016 through March 31, 2018 with an annual lease rate beginning at $166,451.16. The rate will increase the second year of the lease extension via a formula contained in the lease.

City Council passed first reading of an ordinance to authorize the addition of a third parasail boat to the Parasail and Banana Boat Franchise granted to Randle Duke. Council previously authorized Duke to operate a parasail and banana boat business from the beach in the vicinity of Sea Mountain Highway and Ocean Boulevard.

When the franchise was first awarded to Duke, the agreement authorized the use of three parasail boats and a $45,000 franchise fee. Thereafter, Duke requested that the agreement be amended to allow only two parasail boats and a $15,000 reduction of the franchise fee from $45,000 to $30,000. Council agreed to the requested amendment.

On April 15, 2016, Duke requested that the agreement be amended again to allow the use of three parasail boats. City staff informed Duke that it would present the requested amendment to City Council but the amendment would also include a $15,000 fee increase from $30,000 per year to $45,000 per year.

City Council passed first reading of an amendment to the Zoning Text to create a new inland multifamily zoning district (R-4i) to allow multifamily and non-medical commercial or office uses on properties not adjacent to the oceanfront.

Council directed staff to investigate creating a new zoning district similar to R-4 that would allow multi-family, but at lesser intensities and shorter building heights for properties away from the oceanfront. As a result, staff has proposed a text amendment to the Zoning Ordinance to create a new inland multi-family zoning district to be called R-4i (Inland Multifamily Residential).

Resembling R-4, the new district's purpose statement references a need to provide for reduced intensity multi-family in areas inland from the ocean, which are distinctly different from resort-style development represented along the oceanfront or with an ocean view. The purpose of the proposed R-4i district is to allow multi-family similar to the R-4 zoning district, but with less intensity for inland locations; however, not at the expense of visibility and access by the community to the ocean or the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway.

City Council passed first reading of an ordinance to rezone one lot containing about 1.22 acres located at the corner of Vereen Road and Bay Colony Drive from R-24 (Mid-Rise Multifamily Residential) to NC (Neighborhood Commercial).

The vacant, unimproved property is zoned R-24. It is adjacent to the current single-family Marina Bay subdivision, which is zoned R24, and is surrounded by HC (Highway Commercial) to the east and LI

(Limited Industrial) to the north.

The Future Land Use Map in the City's 2010 Comprehensive Plan Update identifies this area with a "Marina Mixed Use" land use class. The proposed zoning district, NC, is a recommended zoning district of this particular land use class.

City Council adopted a Resolution to exercise the City's option to extend a Banana Boat Franchise Agreement between the City and Jeff Ray regarding the operation of a banana boat business on the beach in the area seaward of North Beach Plantation.

The agreement, entered into in April 2011, authorized Ray to operate a banana boat business on the beach seaward of the dune line in the area of North Beach Plantation. The original term of the agreement was for a term of five years, which will expire December 31, 2016.

Article II, Section I of the agreement allows the City the option to extend the agreement for an additional five year term and Ray requested that the City exercise that option. The additional five year term begins January 1, 2017 and expires December 31, 2021.

The franchise fee for 2017 will be $21,000 and will increase by five percent successively for each year of the extended term.

RESULTS: April 4 North Myrtle Beach City Council Meeting

During the April 4 meeting of the North Myrtle Beach City Council, Mayor Marilyn Hatley presented a Proclamation proclaiming April as National Child Abuse and Neglect Prevention Month in North Myrtle Beach. The Mayor was joined by members of the North Myrtle Beach Woman’s Club, who work tirelessly to support programs and initiatives that help to prevent child abuse and neglect.

Mayor Hatley said that during one year, 678,932 victims of child abuse or neglect were reported nationwide. She reminded those attending the meeting that child abuse can have long-term negative psychological, emotional, and physical impacts. She encouraged effective child abuse prevention activities that create meaningful connections and partnerships between child welfare, education, health, community, and faith-based organizations, businesses and law enforcement agencies. She cited the necessity for communities to make every effort to promote programs and activities that benefit children and their families.

“Prevention remains the best defense for our children and families,” Mayor Hatley said.

Council passed second (final) reading of an ordinance to amend the lease agreement between the City and Apex Water Park, LLC.

The leased area now also includes a small portion of land (about .08 acres) adjacent to the lake that will accommodate the placement of a building to serve as an observation area for guests and visitors. Apex anticipates that it will serve prepackaged food and beer and wine to its guests within the observation building. The leased area also includes an additional area of the lake parallel to the Go Ape Tree Top Adventure zip line for the operation of a wake-surf boat. The motorboat will not exceed 12 mph when in operation, and its wake will be used to teach people to surf.

Apex is also authorized to place outside advertising signs or banners on each of the towers supporting the cable system for the wake ski amenity; on the ramps and sliders floating on the lake; and on the railings around the observation building, the pro shop and the motor control buildings.

The amended lease provides that all sponsorship revenues will be considered part of the gross revenues under the lease.

Council passed second reading of an ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance text, Section23-42, regarding overflow parking.

The amended ordinance exempts parking lots intended as noncommercial surplus or overflow parking in association with another use from having to be improved with concrete or asphalt. To qualify for the exemption, parking stalls must be located on a parcel of land that is separate from the principal use it supports, and cannot contain stalls otherwise required to satisfy the minimum parking requirement of that use. Additional performance criteria will also have to be met.

Parking lots intended as a commercial, principal use of land are still required to meet all improvement standards, meaning concrete or asphalt, and the use of landscaping still apply.

Council passed second reading of an ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance text, Sections 23-18 and 23-36 to exempt banners as prohibited signage within public park and sports complexes.

Council approved a special event permit for Wheel to Surf. Sponsored by Coastal Carolina Adaptive Sports & Recreation, this adaptive surfing event for people with disabilities will be held on the beach at 27th Avenue South on May 14, 9:00 a.m.- 4:00 p.m.

Council approved a special event permit for the Anderson Estep Cherry Grove Surfing Championship. Sponsored by the Northern South Carolina Eastern Surfing Association, the event will be held north of the Cherry Grove Pier in the designated surfing area on April 23, 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. A beach sweep will also be held to clean up trash on the beach and in the area around the pier.

City Council tabled until its May 2 meeting the second reading of an ordinance to annex and zone one lot located adjacent to the Parkway Group PDD (PDD), which is located west of the Intracoastal Waterway. Council wants to wait until an associated Development Agreement has been completed before giving second reading to the proposed annexation and zoning.

City Council tabled until its May 2 meeting the second reading of an ordinance for a major amendment to the Parkway Group Planned Development District (PDD) to allow changes to the previously approved phase known as the Waterway Hills Tract and to add a newly annexed area known as the Wilson Chestnut Tract. The area is referred to as “Grande Dunes North” in the PDD, which is located west of the Intracoastal Waterway. Council wants to wait until an associated Development Agreement has been completed before giving second reading to the proposed ordinance.

City Council tabled until its May 2 meeting the second reading of an ordinance to amend the Parkway Group Planned Development District (PDD) to allow changes to the previously approved residential tracts known as Seashore Farms and L.L. Chestnut, referred to as “Waterside” in the PDD. Council wants to wait until an associated Development Agreement has been completed before giving second reading of the proposed ordinance.

Council passed first reading of an ordinance to amend the current Zoning Text Section 20-40, Existing Adjacent Streetscapes, to extend the time period for retroactive installation or fee in lieu for street trees and sidewalks from 24 months to 36 months.

Council passed first reading of an ordinance to amend the Zoning Text to create a new overlay zoning district to recognize historical lot development patterns of several existing R-1 (Single- Family Residential) District neighborhoods that were subdivided prior to the existence of the City of North Myrtle Beach Incorporation and establishment of zoning.

Staff has proposed a text amendment to the Zoning Ordinance to create a new overlay zoning district that respects the historical lot development pattern of several existing R-1 (Single-Family Residential Low-Density) District neighborhoods subdivided prior to City incorporation and establishment of zoning, and to make accommodation allowing reestablishment of that pattern with respect to lot sizes and setbacks. The key changes would be to allow a 5,000 square foot lot size, and 5 foot side setbacks, recognizing that this lot size is historically prevalent in many neighborhoods.

Specifically, staff is recommending a “floating” overlay zone, where the overlay district exists in the Zoning Text but is not mapped, with no initial application to specific properties at this time.

The benefits of establishing a zoning district as a floating zone are as follows:

• No city-initiated rezoning of anyone's property
• Far less burdensome notification and processing
• Considered permissive rather than prescriptive.

Property owners choose whether to apply for the overlay zone on their property. Surrounding property owners are notified and can have their say on a case-by-case basis during public hearings and public comment periods.

Processed like a typical rezoning application, the Planning Commission would provide a recommendation to City Council as to whether or not the district makes sense on a case-by-case basis.

Council passed first reading of an ordinance that would amend an ordinance adopted on March 21 approving a Master Trust Indenture ("MTI") for the Cherry Grove Municipal Improvement District ("District") financing. The purpose of the amendment is to follow up on a recommendation made by Muni-Cap to have the bonds secured not only by assessments, but also by the City's full faith, credit and taxing power. Adding that additional security will require official action by City Council, and that action needs to occur as soon as practical to avoid any delay in the current schedule for implementing the dredge. Once a lender has been chosen, the final details of the bonds will be set forth in a "Supplemental Resolution", also approved by City Council. After that, the financing can proceed to closing.

During the public comment period of the meeting, Grand Strand resident Fred Nesta presented Mayor Marilyn Hatley with a framed copy of a bill passed by the S.C. General Assembly last spring officially designating October of every year as Italian American Heritage Month in South Carolina. The bill recognizes the many vital contributions of Italian Americans to the state. Nesta was highly instrumental in getting the bill passed.

A member of Grand Strand Lodge 2868 of the Order of Sons of Italy in America and a past national state deputy of the order, Nesta’s goal is to have a copy of the bill displayed in every Italian owned business in the state, and in city and county governments. He has been raising funds to accomplish his goal.

Also during the public comment period, Bennie Swans, John Bonsignore, and others from a coalition formed to help enhance positive relations between law enforcement and the community in Horry and Georgetown Counties spoke to City Council about their desire to sponsor a relaxed event in the north strand area that would bring young people in closer personal contact with north strand police personnel. The event would include food, games, and other relaxed interactions. Young people would have the opportunity to experience north strand police personnel interacting with them on a more personal level, and police would have the opportunity to learn more about what interests and drives today’s north strand area youth.

The coalition first held an event designed to bring law enforcement and the communities they servce closer together with a 2015 dinner at The Pine Lakes Country Club in Myrtle Beach. Although relations are much better between area police departments and residents of all ages than they are in some other parts of the country, the coalition believes that holding these types of events will continue to stress support for law enforcement, and improve accessibility of young people to law enforcement for help and guidance.

As plans develop, more information will be made available to the public.

RESULTS: March 21 North Myrtle Beach City Council Meeting

During the March 21 North Myrtle Beach City Council meeting, two city employees were provided with Longevity Awards for their length of service to residents, businesses and visitors. The awards are provided in five year increments to city employees who consistently provide excellent customer service. Receiving the awards were Building Official Delane Stevens (15 years) and Master Electrical Inspector Gordon Windham (10).

During the meeting, Senior Planner Sean Hoelscher received the city’s Employee of the Month Award. Sean has been providing valuable in-house design services in support of multiple city projects managed by the planning and development, public works, and parks and recreation departments. Also, Sean recently passed exams to become a licensed landscape architect, a certified floodplain manager, and a certified arborist. Sean has worked for the city for seven years.

A Resolution expressing the city’s annual support of efforts to curb child abuse and neglect nationally and locally was included on the March 21 meeting agenda but was moved to Council’s first meeting in April, which is the time frame in which it is normally presented.

City Council approved a request by the Society of Stranders for a special event permit for group’s Spring Safari Parade, to be held April 23, 1:00 p.m-4:00 p.m. on Main Street.

City Council approved a request by the Wellness Council for South Carolina for a special event permit for the Earth Day 5K Run to be held April 23, 7:00 a.m.-11:00 a.m., at Barefoot Resort and Marina.

City Council approved a request by Continental Event & Sports Management for a special event permit for the 5^th Annual Divas® Half Marathon & 5K to be held April 29-May1. April 29 and 30 will be devoted to participant events. The Divas® Half Marathon & 5K will be held May 1 from 7:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.

The Divas® Half Marathon Series is held annually in North Myrtle Beach, SC; Galveston, TX; Branson, MO; San Francisco Bay, CA; Peachtree City, GA; DC's Wine Country, VA; Long Island, NY; San Juan, PR; St. Augustine Beach, FL; and Temecula, CA.

The Divas® Half Marathon & 5K series embraces a full weekend experience that caters specifically to women.

City Council also passed a Resolution approving Mutual Aid Agreements that allow for the temporary transfer of officers from 16 jurisdictions to North Myrtle Beach to provide law enforcement support to help manage traffic and other impacts that the Town of Atlantic Beach event, Bike Fest, has on the city. Bike Fest will be held May 27-30.

City Council passed second (final) reading of an ordinance to amend the Public Trees Ordinance text, Section 19-56 thru 64, to address revisions recommended by the North Myrtle Beach Tree City Board. The board is tasked with a review and/or revision of the public tree ordinance every two years in order for North Myrtle Beach to maintain its Tree City USA status.

The revisions bring the public tree ordinance up to date by removing obsolete terms and definitions, updating the process by which a public tree may be removed, allowing for the pruning of private trees encroaching into the public right of way, updating the annual work plan, and identifying the public safety department as the enforcement mechanism for the ordinance.

City Council passed second reading of an ordinance to approve the "Master Trust Indenture" for the Cherry Grove Municipal Improvement District (Dredging Project), which is a step forward in obtaining financing for the project.

The ordinance approves a Master Trust Indenture ("MTI") for the Cherry Grove Municipal Improvement District ("District") financing, and authorizes the Mayor and City Manager to execute and deliver the MTI upon the issuance of the first series of bonds for the District this year.

The ordinance establishes the mechanics for issuing and paying the bonds, and will be presented to financial institutions, which may have an interest in providing the financing.

Once a lender has been chosen, the final details of the bonds will be set forth in a "supplemental Resolution", which must also be approved by Council. After that, financing can proceed to closing.

City Council tabled until its May 2 meeting the second reading of an ordinance to annex and zone one lot located adjacent to the Parkway Group PDD (PDD), which is located west of the Intracoastal Waterway. Council wants to wait until an associated Development Agreement has been completed before giving second reading to the proposed annexation and zoning.

Baird Stewart, authorized agent for LStar Communities and NGD Property I/II, LLC, has petitioned the city for annexation of about 60.69 acres of property adjacent to the Waterway Hills section of the PDD. The parcel is currently within unincorporated Horry County. The petition also reflects the requested city zoning district of Planned Development District (PDD) by joining with the existing Parkway Group PDD.

The property is contiguous to the corporate boundary of the city and is zoned Commercial Forest Agriculture under Horry County’s jurisdiction. The property is vacant and unimproved. Surrounding land uses are vacant and a former golf course.

City Council tabled until its May 2 meeting the second reading of an ordinance for a major amendment to the Parkway Group Planned Development District (PDD) to allow changes to the previously approved phase known as the Waterway Hills Tract and to add a newly annexed area known as the Wilson Chestnut Tract. The area is referred to as “Grande Dunes North” in the PDD, which is located west of the Intracoastal Waterway. Council wants to wait until an associated Development Agreement has been completed before giving second reading to the proposed ordinance.

The proposed amendment reduces the previously approved density for the property from a maximum of 2,500 residential dwelling units to 858 units over a total combined area of 241.46 acres, a 65 percent reduction in housing density.

Grande Dunes North would be a private, gated neighborhood with private roadways using a guard at the entrance gate. The development would be constructed in six phases. Phase I would be the Entrance Parkway and Grande Dunes Connection, Community Amenity, and 119 residential units. Phase II would be north of Phase I along the Intracoastal Waterway. Phase III and Phase V would be north of the Entrance Parkway and Phases IV and VI would be located south of the Entrance Parkway.

City Council tabled until its May 2 meeting the second reading of an ordinance to amend the Parkway Group Planned Development District (PDD) to allow changes to the previously approved residential tracts known as Seashore Farms and L.L. Chestnut, referred to as “Waterside” in the PDD. Council wants to wait until an associated Development Agreement has been completed before giving second reading of the proposed ordinance.

The Waterside development would be constructed in 10 phases. Phase I is the most complete and plans have been provided to the city for review. Phases II through X will require further review and amendments prior to construction.

Phase I of Waterside includes three proposed neighborhoods— Pinnacle Ridge, Copper Creek and Copper Meadow. When completed, Pinnacle Ridge and Copper Creek will offer a variety of housing options, such as detached single-family homes, neighborhood commercial areas, and attached single-family and multifamily homes. These neighborhoods would be connected by roadways and multi-purpose paths.

City Council passed first reading of an ordinance to amend the lease agreement between the city and Apex Water Park, LLC, the company that will offer a wakeboarding facility on the northern part of the lake located at the North Myrtle Beach Park & Sports Complex.

Apex requests that the leased area also include a small portion of land (about .08 acres) adjacent to the lake that would accommodate the placement of a building to serve as an observation area for guests and visitors. Apex anticipates that it will serve prepackaged food and beer and wine to its guests within the observation building.

Apex also requests that the leased area include an additional area of the lake parallel to the Go Ape zip line for the operation of a wake-surf boat. The motorboat will not exceed 12 mph when in operation, and its wake will be used to teach people to surf.

Apex requests the lease be amended to allow for the placement of outside advertising signs or banners on each of the towers supporting the cable system for the wake ski amenity; on the ramps and sliders floating on the lake; and on the railings around the observation building, the pro shop and the motor control buildings.

The lease would also be amended to provide that all sponsorship revenues will be considered part of the gross revenues under the lease.

City Council passed first reading of an ordinance to amend the Zoning Ordinance text in Sections 23-42 and 23-36 regarding overflow parking.

The proposed amendment would exempt parking lots intended as noncommercial surplus or overflow parking in association with another use from having to be improved with concrete or asphalt. To qualify for the exemption, the parking stalls would have to be located on a parcel of land that is separate from the principal use it supports, and could not contain stalls otherwise required to satisfy the minimum parking requirement of that use. Additional performance criteria would also have to be met.

If the proposed amendment passes second reading, it would still require parking lots intended as a commercial, principal use of land to meet all the improvement standards, meaning concrete or asphalt, and the use of landscaping would also apply.

City Council passed first reading of an ordinance to amend the Zoning Ordinance text in Sections 23-18 and 23-36 to exempt banners as prohibited signage within public parks and sports complexes.

The North Myrtle Beach Park & Sports Complex is unique to any other public use that the city has historically managed. There are numerous accessory uses within the park, and the sign ordinance as currently written does not address signage for such a use, nor any of the accessory uses.

Various commercial attractions need flexibility for corporate signage, and the city needs flexibility to review and approve corporate and/or sponsorship sign packages for the various attractions. The proposed changes would allow the city manager to approve comprehensive sign packages for accessory uses within public park and sports complexes, consistent with lease agreements between the city and given attractions.

 

RESULTS: February 15 City Council Meeting

During the February 15 North Myrtle Beach City Council meeting, four City employees were provided with Longevity Awards for their length of service to North Myrtle Beach residents, businesses and visitors. The awards are provided in five year increments to City employees who consistently provide excellent customer service. Receiving awards were Electrician Milton Willoughby (30 years of service), Planner Dawn Snider (15), Motor Equipment Operator Eddie Stevenson (15), and Motor Equipment Operator Arron Vereen (15).

Tom Walker, chairman of the North Myrtle Beach Tree City Board, provided Council with a report on the board’s activities and accomplishments for 2015. The board has completed proposed updates to the Public Tree Ordinance for the City, which passed first reading at the Council meeting. The board also held three well-received public education sessions on trees and tree care at the North Myrtle Beach Library.

A newsletter was created to provide North Myrtle Beach residents with more information on the Tree Board’s activities and goals for the year. The newsletter was mailed out with the City’s January 2016 water bills.

During the past year, the Tree City Board provided 12 Tree of the Month awards, which highlighted the features of unique trees within the city. By highlighting the trees and those who care for them, the board hopes to continue to encourage tree preservation and informed tree maintenance throughout the city.

Thanks to the efforts of the board, and City Council’s continued support of board initiatives, North Myrtle Beach again earned the Tree City USA award. The City has earned this award for 10 consecutive years due to its tree preservation, maintenance and planting initiatives.

On December 4, 2015, an Arbor Day celebration was sponsored by the Tree City Board. It included the planting of multiple Willow Oaks at City Hall.

City Council passed second (final) reading of an ordinance to rescind the City's current code sections regarding the type of information pawnbrokers located within the city must maintain and electronically transfer to the Public Safety Department. A primary change is that pawnbrokers must now photograph not only an item being pawned but also the person who is pawning the item, and then transmit the same electronically to the Public Safety Department.

City Council tabled until its first meeting in March second reading of an ordinance to annex and zone one lot located adjacent to the Parkway Group PDD (PDD), which is located west of the Intracoastal Waterway. Council wants to wait until an associated Development Agreement has been completed before giving second reading to the proposed annexation and zoning.

Baird Stewart, authorized agent for LStar Communities and NGD Property I/II, LLC, has petitioned the City for annexation of about 60.69 acres of property adjacent to the Waterway Hills section of the PDD. The parcel is currently within unincorporated Horry County. The petition also reflects the requested City zoning district of Planned Development District (PDD) by joining with the existing Parkway Group PDD.

The property is contiguous to the corporate boundary of the City and is zoned Commercial Forest Agriculture under Horry County’s jurisdiction. The property is vacant and unimproved. Surrounding land uses are vacant and a former golf course.

City Council tabled until its first meeting in March second reading of an ordinance for a major amendment to the Parkway Group Planned Development District (PDD) to allow changes to the previously approved phase known as the Waterway Hills Tract and to add a newly annexed area known as the Wilson Chestnut Tract. The area is referred to as “Grande Dunes North” in the PDD, which is located west of the Intracoastal Waterway. Council wants to wait until an associated Development Agreement has been completed before giving second reading to the proposed ordinance.

The proposed amendment reduces the previously approved density for the property from a maximum of 2,500 residential dwelling units to 858 units over a total combined area of 241.46 acres, a 65 percent reduction in housing density.

Grande Dunes North would be a private, gated neighborhood with private roadways using a guard at the entrance gate. The development would be constructed in six phases. Phase I would be the Entrance Parkway and Grande Dunes Connection, Community Amenity, and 119 residential units. Phase II would be north of Phase I along the Intracoastal Waterway. Phase III and Phase V would be north of the Entrance Parkway and Phases IV and VI would be located south of the Entrance Parkway.

City Council tabled until its first meeting in March second reading of an ordinance to amend the Parkway Group Planned Development District (PDD) to allow changes to the previously approved residential tracts known as Seashore Farms and L.L. Chestnut, referred to as “Waterside” in the PDD. Council wants to wait until an associated Development Agreement has been completed before giving second reading of the proposed ordinance.

The Waterside development would be constructed in 10 phases. Phase I is the most complete and plans have been provided to the City for review. Phases II through X will require further review and amendments prior to construction.

Phase I of Waterside includes three proposed neighborhoods— Pinnacle Ridge, Copper Creek and Copper Meadow. When completed, Pinnacle Ridge and Copper Creek will offer a variety of housing options, such as detached single-family homes, neighborhood commercial areas, and attached single-family and multifamily homes. These neighborhoods would be connected by roadways and multi-purpose paths.

City Council passed a motion to appoint Bubba Collins to the North Myrtle Beach Planning Commission.

City Council passed first reading of an ordinance to amend the Public Trees Ordinance text, Section 19-56 thru 64, to address recommended revisions proposed by the North Myrtle Beach Tree City Board. The Tree City Board is tasked with a review and/or revision of the public tree ordinance every two years in order to maintain Tree City USA status.

The proposed revisions would bring the public tree ordinance up to date by removing obsolete terms and definitions, updating the process by which a public tree may be removed, allowing for the pruning of private trees encroaching into the public right of way, updating the annual work plan, and identifying the Department of Public Safety as the enforcement mechanism for the ordinance.

City Council passed first reading of an ordinance to approve the "Master Trust Indenture" for the Cherry Grove Municipal Improvement District (Dredging Project), which is a step forward in obtaining financing for the project.

The proposed ordinance approves a Master Trust Indenture ("MTI") for the Cherry Grove Municipal Improvement District ("District") financing, and authorizes the Mayor and City Manager to execute and deliver the MTI upon the issuance of the first series of bonds for the District this year.

The proposed ordinance sets up the mechanics for issuing and paying the bonds, and will be presented to financial institutions, which may have an interest in providing the financing.

Once a lender has been chosen, the final details of the Bonds will be set forth in a "supplemental Resolution", also approved by Council. After that, the financing can proceed to closing. No public hearing is required prior to the enactment of the ordinance.

Results: December 14 North Myrtle Beach City Council Meeting

During the December 14 North Myrtle Beach City Council meeting, Council approved second (final) reading of an amendment to the City’s Land Development Regulations Text pertaining to driveways. The City’s former regulation stated that a residential driveway may not provide access to more than one lot. The new regulation changes the definition of “Driveway” to read: “All private drives typically used to provide vehicular access to one residential lot, except where South Carolina Department of Transportation standards require the creation of a shared driveway.”

Council passed second (final) reading of an amended ordinance authorizing the establishment of the "Cherry Grove Improvement District.” The amended ordinance adjusts those assessments in the cases where Council found it appropriate, confirms all other assessments, and amends the district boundaries as Council found appropriate. The ordinance also orders the recording of the assessment roll as amended in Horry County offices and the sending of a letter to each person who filed a written objection with the North Myrtle Beach city manager as outlined in their Notice of Assessment. Click here to download the pdf.

A copy of the amended ordinance can be found on the City’s website at www.NMB.us 

Council approved a motion to appoint James Newton to serve on the Accommodations Tax Committee.

Council approved a special event permit for Risen Christ Lutheran School’s Race into the New Year 5K, scheduled for December 26, 8:30 a.m.-9:30 a.m., at Barefoot Landing. For race details visit www.runsignup.com/Race/SC/NorthMyrtleBeach/RaceintotheNewYear5k

Council approved a special event permit for the Grand Strand Running Club’s 9th Prediction Run, scheduled for January 1, 2016, 10:00 a.m.-11:00 a.m., at Barefoot Resort. The City of North Myrtle Beach is a co-sponsor. For race details visit www.grandstrandrunner.com

Council approved a special event permit for the Grand Strand Running Club’s 33^rd North Myrtle Beach Winter Run, scheduled for January 23, 2016, 9:00 a.m.-11:00 a.m., at Main Street. The City of North Myrtle Beach is a co-sponsor. For race details visit www.grandstrandrunner.com

RESULTS: September 21 City Council Meeting

During the September 21 North Myrtle Beach City Council meeting, five City employees were recognized for their service to North Myrtle Beach taxpayers and visitors. Earning awards were Brendon Bellamy (20 years service), George Willard (15), Victoria Downey (10), Sean Hoelscher (5), and Joshua Kinney (5).

L-R: City Manager Mike Mahaney, Brendon Bellamy, George Willard, Victoria Downey, Joshua Kinney, Sean Hoelscher

City Council issued a proclamation declaring October 12-16 to be First Book of Horry County Week in North Myrtle Beach. First Book, through innovative approaches, tackles the single biggest obstacle to the development of literacy—access to books—and nationwide has provided more than 130 million books to children in need, increased access to needed materials for educators and administrators, and helped to elevate educational opportunities for the nation’s most disadvantaged youth.

L-R: Mayor Marilyn Hatley and First Book of Horry County volunteers

First Book of Horry County has since 1998 provided more than 50,000 books to children in the Grand Strand area. First Book also awards grants to local programs with a literacy component, providing a steady diet of books to children.

Children and adults who are illiterate or have low literacy skills face poor education, employment, and health outlooks. Many will not graduate from high school, will earn barely enough income to stay above the poverty level, and will be more likely to engage in criminal and anti-social behaviors. Over the course of their lifetimes, each such person will cost the United States more than $250,000.

City Council passed second (final) reading of an ordinance to rezone .61 acres off Little River Neck Road near the City of North Myrtle Beach Water Tower from HC (Highway Commercial to R-3 (Mobile Manufactured Home Residential). City staff requested the change to clarify the location of the HC zoning district as originally designated when the city was first incorporated in 1968. The rezoning lessens the area of HC zoning by establishing the new HC zoning district approximately 300 feet into the parcel from the edge of the Sea Mountain Highway right of way.

Council passed second reading of an ordinance to amend the Zoning Ordinance text to change the development standards for mixed use within the Highway Commercial (HC) zoning district. In May 2015, City Council approved an amendment to the Zoning Ordinance text to limit the amount of multifamily allowed by-right within the HC zoning district. The revision allows a single residential unit to be constructed above a commercial use within HC, which was staff’s original intention.

Council approved a motion to appoint Mike Eddings to the North Myrtle Beach Election Commission.

Council approved a motion to appoint Woody Caine to the North Myrtle Beach Election Commission to serve out the one year remaining on Susan Trexler’s term. Trexler resigned from the Commission because she has moved outside the city limits. Commission members must live within the city limits.

Council approved a motion to approve an event permit for the 2015 Endless Summer Festival, which will be held on Saturday, October 31, 10:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m., on Main Street. The festival offers live music, arts and crafts, food, and more.

Council passed second reading of an ordinance to lease a portion of the Lake located at the North Myrtle Beach Park & Sports Complex to Apex Wake Parks, LLC for the operation of a cable wake park amenity. The cable system will pull people on water skis, wake boards, etc., over the leased portion of the lake. The term of the lease will be for a period of ten years with an option by the lessee to extend the lease for two additional renewal terms of 10 years per renewal term. It is anticipated that the cable wake park will open in March 2016.

Council conducted a public hearing regarding the City of North Myrtle Beach Hazard Mitigation Plan.

At the request of the applicant, Council withdrew from the agenda first reading of an ordinance to amend the North Beach Plantation Planned Development District phase III Tower (Oceanfront Villas) within the "Oceanfront Towers.”

Council passed first reading of a request to amend the Surf Estates Planned Development District (PDD). Nick Nye, authorized agent for Cherry, LLC, requested an amendment to the Surf Estates PDD to allow changes to the previously approved Commercial "8" portion of the project. Specifically, the owner wishes to change a single-use gas station to a three-unit commercial use including a gas station, with parking and rear connector adjustments, adding a drive up window with two order lanes, and including a new connecting center lane providing access to Sea Mountain Highway.

The proposed commercial building would be split into three separate tenants, with one unit to be used as a gas station/convenience store, one unit to be used as a restaurant, and one unit to be used as a retail shop. The gas station/convenience store would be 1,800 square feet; the restaurant 2,000 square feet, and the shop 1,600 square feet; totaling 5,400 square feet.

Additionally, six gas pumps are proposed, consistent with the approved plans.

Council members discussed ingress and egress to the property at length, and also asked that, prior to second reading, Nye provide architectural renderings for the commercial building that offer a look more in keeping with nearby residential development.

Council passed first reading of an ordinance to approve the sale of property to Santee Cooper and to authorize the City Manager to sign the documents necessary for the transaction.

In 2012, the City purchased property from Horry County for future expansion for a water tank site, a wastewater pump station site, and a future electric substation site. The latter portion of the property was intended for a future sale to Santee Cooper. Santee Cooper is now ready to purchase the site. The City acquired the site from Horry County for $79,000, the same amount proposed for sale to Santee Cooper.