Financial Developments in Horry County

News Summary

Horry County has passed the first reading of its Fiscal Year 2025 budget, prioritizing essential services without increasing taxes. The budget discussions included a potential Local Option Sales Tax to aid in property tax relief. Additionally, Horry County Schools is considering a proposal to raise minimum starting salaries for teachers, reflecting a commitment to invest in education. With a comprehensive budget plan due soon, community members look forward to improvements, including discussions on safety during prom season and new educational initiatives.

Exciting Financial Developments in Horry County!

Horry County is buzzing with news! The County Council has just passed the first reading of its Fiscal Year 2025 budget. What’s the big deal? Well, this budget is all about maintaining the essential services that make our community great without asking residents to fork over more in taxes or fees. How refreshing is that?

This significant step took place during the recent FY 2026 Spring Budget Planning Retreat held on April 10, 2025. This event follows the Fall Budget Planning Retreat that happened back in December 2024, where council members and staff came together to discuss everything from the county’s financial standing to innovative ideas for improving services for all.

What’s on the Table?

During these discussions, council members even tossed around the idea of a Local Option Sales Tax for future years. This could be an exciting prospect as it might primarily target tourists and visitors, providing a chance for residents to see a rollback in property taxes! Imagine that—a potential break for the hard-working folks who call Horry County home.

The second reading of this budget is set for May 6, 2025. Fingers crossed it keeps moving along smoothly! If all goes well, this new budget will take effect starting July 1, 2025.

Attention Teachers!

Horry County Schools (HCS), where Superintendent Clifford Jones has sketched out a plan that could bring some good news to educators. The proposal aims to raise the minimum starting salary for teachers to $52,015 for those with a bachelor’s degree. That’s quite the jump from the previous figure of $48,275, and it’s exactly the kind of boost that many have been clamoring for!

This plan aligns with efforts from South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster, who has been advocating for increased minimum salaries for our devoted teachers. What’s more, if the proposal gains approval, HCS staff could also receive a 2% cost-of-living increase along with additional STEP increases for eligible individuals. Those who miss out on a STEP increase would still benefit from a 1.6% rise. Everyone loves a little extra cash in their pocket!

Funding the Future

$27.8 million. But that’s not all! Additional staffing adjustments to accommodate two new elementary schools and special education roles brings the total to around $8.3 million more. It’s encouraging to see the investment in education!

$645 million in revenue for the upcoming fiscal year but notes that projected spending is around $678 million. This means a $32.6 million shortfall, which will be covered by the Fund Balance. It’s worth noting that the expected usage will be less than the previous year, so that’s some good news as well.

The Timeline Ahead

Prom Safety and New Initiatives

electricity major at the Academy for Technology and Academics, slated for launch in the 2026-27 school year. Talk about looking ahead!

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Myrtle Beach City Council Approves Salary Raises for Employees
North Myrtle Beach Addresses Short-Term Rental Issues
Business Leaders Discuss State Issues in North Myrtle Beach
Discover the Wonders of Myrtle Beach
Contract Dispute Over North Myrtle Beach Fire Station Project
Little River Resident Sues Police Over False Arrest Claims
North Myrtle Beach Faces Contract Dispute Over Fire Station
Grand Strand Beaches Revitalization with Federal Funding
Historic Snowstorm Blankets Myrtle Beach in White
Myrtle Beach Police Department Plans New Facilities Amidst Challenges

Additional Resources

• WMBF News: Horry County Officials Vote to Approve No Tax Fee Increase for Fiscal Year 2026 Budget
• My Horry News: Horry County Schools Leaders Push for Higher Teacher Salaries
• WPDE: Horry County School Board Reviews Superintendent’s Budget Proposals
• Wikipedia: Horry County, South Carolina
• Encyclopedia Britannica: South Carolina

Author: STAFF HERE MYRTLE BEACH

The HERE Myrtle Beach Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Myrtle Beach community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Myrtle Beach Our team includes lifelong Myrtle Beach residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent developments along the Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach’s tourism and hospitality industry, and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Coastal Carolina University programs). Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.