MYRTLE BEACH, SC (WMBF) – Myrtle Beach is ready to get a jump start on some 2024 resolutions, with the city’s mayor sharing what’s at the top of her to-do list.
Mayor Brenda Bethune said one of her main priorities is welcoming new council members Bill Mclure and Debbie Conner.
She said it’s important to get everyone on the same page ahead of any major decisions.
“Whenever you have a change of dynamics of a council, especially with two new members, there will be some getting used to each other,” Bethune said. “The communication and just building that team spirit with each other.”
Bethune said another major goal is to continue breathing life into downtown.
She’s hopeful state lawmakers want to do the same after Gov. Henry McMaster recommended millions of dollars for the Arts and Innovation District in his 2024 executive budget.
“That’s very big for us, and we’re excited about that,” Bethune said. “We will continue to meet with our delegation and others to push for the funds that we need to help us with downtown because what happens in Myrtle Beach does affect the entire state.”
Bethune said that money would only continue the momentum they started last year, including adding new dog parks and splash pad, filling empty space along 9th Avenue and welcoming new businesses.
Bethune said public safety is also at the top of the list.
She said the city is not only trying to recruit police officers and firefighters but keep them working in Myrtle Beach.
The city started working towards that goal last year when the city council increased first responders’ salaries.
Lastly, Bethune shared she will continue to push state lawmakers to pass a hate crime bill after local advocates have struggled to get a citywide hate crime ordinance in front of the council.
The city passed a hate crime resolution last year urging state lawmakers to get a hate crime law on the books.
The city’s spokesperson said several leaders believe a statewide hate crime law sends a bigger message and is uniform across the state.
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