North Myrtle Beach, October 23, 2025
News Summary
As the November election approaches, candidates in North Myrtle Beach gathered for a forum to address key voter concerns regarding growth and infrastructure. With a focus on residential development and business support, mayoral and city council candidates emphasized their strategies to manage the city’s growth sustainably. This election marks a significant change for the city, as Mayor Marilyn Hatley will retire after more than two decades in office, making way for a new leadership dynamic. Voter engagement ahead of the election is strongly encouraged.
North Myrtle Beach Candidates Address Voter Concerns on Growth and Infrastructure Ahead of Upcoming Election
North Myrtle Beach held a candidate forum on October 20, 2025, for mayoral and city council candidates as the November 4 election approaches. Organized by Destination Myrtle Beach, the event took place at the North Myrtle Beach High School auditorium, attracting nearly 200 registered attendees.
Mayoral candidates included J. Baldwin, Mike Mahaney, and Troy Spencer, the latter of whom did not attend the forum. City council candidates Tony Warren Jr., Dr. David Weitzman, and incumbent Trey Skidmore participated along with Windy Hill candidates Jeri McCumbee and Jolene Puffer. Bubba Collins was present but unopposed in his race.
A significant focus of the forum was the desire to slow residential growth, enhance infrastructure, and foster the local business community. Both mayoral candidates emphasized their experience in city affairs, with Baldwin and Mahaney both addressing the challenges facing the community.
Mahaney spoke of his prior work with Destination North Myrtle Beach and underscored the importance of communication between the city and local businesses, particularly regarding issues with short-term rentals. Both candidates acknowledged the pressing need for workforce and affordable housing, with Mahaney proposing that such developments could be strategically located inland.
J. Baldwin expressed a clear preference against further residential annexation, advocating for the conservancy of remaining land to limit development. He described the city’s current business climate as “thriving” and highlighted the necessity to support existing businesses.
As the election nears, voters are reminded they can cast early ballots at the Horry County Voter Registration Office until October 31, or vote on Election Day from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. This election marks a notable transition for North Myrtle Beach, as it will see the election of a new mayor for the first time in over two decades, with current Mayor Marilyn Hatley retiring after 24 years in office.
The council forum also delved into topics surrounding growth, tourism, quality of life, sustainability, and community issues. Baldwin criticized any further annexation, articulating a desire for steady growth management. Infrastructure timelines were discussed, with Mahaney pointing out the challenges of keeping pace with growth due to the lengthy processes required for infrastructure development.
The next candidate forum is scheduled for October 29 at the Mary C. Canty Recreation Center, hosted by former Myrtle Beach NAACP President Mickey James.
Key Information Summary
- Date of Candidate Forum: October 20, 2025
- Election Date: November 4, 2025
- Location: North Myrtle Beach High School auditorium
- Mayoral Candidates: J. Baldwin, Mike Mahaney, Troy Spencer (did not attend)
- City Council Candidates: Tony Warren Jr., Dr. David Weitzman, Trey Skidmore, Jeri McCumbee, Jolene Puffer, Bubba Collins (unopposed)
- Key Issues Discussed: Residential growth, infrastructure development, business community support, workforce housing
- Voter Information: Early voting until October 31, Election Day from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
- Retiring Mayor: Marilyn Hatley after 24 years
FAQ
What was the purpose of the candidate forum held on October 20, 2025?
The forum was organized to discuss voter concerns on growth and infrastructure ahead of the November 4 election.
Where did the candidate forum take place?
The forum took place at the North Myrtle Beach High School auditorium.
Who were the candidates participating in the forum?
The mayoral candidates were J. Baldwin, Mike Mahaney, and Troy Spencer (who did not attend). City council candidates included Tony Warren Jr., Dr. David Weitzman, Trey Skidmore, Jeri McCumbee, Jolene Puffer, and Bubba Collins.
What was a major theme during the forum?
A recurring theme was the desire to slow residential growth, increase infrastructure, and develop the local business community.
How can voters participate in the upcoming election?
Voters can cast early ballots at the Horry County Voter Registration Office until October 31 or vote on Election Day from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Who is retiring after the election?
The current Mayor Marilyn Hatley is retiring after 24 years in office, marking the first time in over two decades that North Myrtle Beach will elect a new mayor.
Key Features of the North Myrtle Beach Election
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Date of Forum | October 20, 2025 |
| Date of Election | November 4, 2025 |
| Location | North Myrtle Beach High School auditorium |
| Major Topics Discussed | Residential growth, infrastructure, business community support |
| Next Candidate Forum | October 29, 2025, at Mary C. Canty Recreation Center |
| Retiring Mayor | Marilyn Hatley after 24 years |
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Additional Resources
- WMBF News: North Myrtle Beach Candidates Share Visions at Forum Ahead of Election Day
- My Horry News: North Myrtle Beach Voters to Choose New Mayor, Three Council Seats Up for Election
- Post and Courier: Myrtle Beach City Council Election – Public Safety
- My Horry News: Filing Deadline Passes, Candidates Set for North Myrtle Beach Election
- Wikipedia: North Myrtle Beach
Author: STAFF HERE MYRTLE BEACH
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