News Summary
The City of Myrtle Beach has purchased equipment from the closed Le Manna Bread Company for over $125,000, raising concerns about fiscal responsibility. Despite the acquisition being below market value, residents question the use of public funds after the bakery’s rapid closure. This investment is part of efforts to revitalize the Arts and Innovation District, but community members express discontent over the city’s business support strategy. The area has faced multiple closures, further complicating local economic stability.
Myrtle Beach – The City of Myrtle Beach has purchased equipment from Le Manna Bread Company, a bakery that has recently closed its doors, for an amount exceeding $125,000. The acquisition officially occurred during an April 8 City Council meeting and included furniture, fixtures, and additional items. This decision has raised eyebrows among local residents concerned about the use of city funds and the business’s rapid closure after less than a year of operation.
City spokesperson Meredith Denari confirmed that the total cost of the equipment purchased was below market value, making it financially advantageous for the city. The equipment is intended to remain within the premises of Le Manna, in hopes of supporting the next business to occupy the space at 9th Ave N. This location has been a focal point within the city’s Arts and Innovation District, which aims to foster creative business endeavors.
In addition to the recent purchase, the City of Myrtle Beach had previously issued a check to Le Manna for $144,113 in February 2024. This payment was designated as the city’s contribution towards renovations—commonly referred to as “upfit”—to enhance the building’s suitability for the bakery’s operations. Despite these investments, Le Manna Bread Company, which leased its space for $1,613.04 per month, ceased operations shortly after its establishment.
The bakery’s abrupt closure and the subsequent financial transactions have sparked discontent among community members, particularly on social media platforms like Facebook. Concerns have been voiced about the fiscal responsibility of the city in providing public funds to a business that did not achieve longevity in the market. The facility is now set to welcome a new tenant, Winna’s Kitchen, under a new lease agreement that will charge a monthly rent of $2,875, substantially higher than Le Manna’s previous arrangement.
Further context reveals that Le Manna is not the only business that has faced challenges in Myrtle Beach. ESA Fitness, which previously operated at a nearby location, was ordered to vacate the premises after accumulating over $20,000 in unpaid rent. This string of closures within the Arts and Innovation District indicates potential instability in the local business climate, prompting questions about the effectiveness of supporting new ventures.
The area has seen infrastructural concerns as well, with recent debates arising around the condition of a bridge on the US 501 Business Bypass. Although classified as being in “poor condition,” the South Carolina Department of Transportation has labeled it as safe, highlighting ongoing community discussions about public safety and infrastructure reliability.
Political issues also permeate the discourse surrounding Myrtle Beach, particularly concerning the City Council’s election system. Currently, the council operates on an at-large election model, sparking discussions among residents on representation, especially in districts like Market Common and the Arts and Innovation District. Community members have expressed desires for more localized representation, especially as many council members reside outside these areas.
Modifications to the voting system may require a referendum or specific action from the City Council, adhering to South Carolina state law. As sentiments on representation evolve, the Myrtle Beach community continues to engage in discussions about how best to serve all constituents, particularly in light of recent financial decisions affecting local businesses.
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Additional Resources
- Myrtle Beach Online: Local News
- Wikipedia: Myrtle Beach
- Myrtle Beach Online: Local News
- Google Search: Myrtle Beach politics
- Myrtle Beach Online: Politics
- Google Scholar: Myrtle Beach government
- Myrtle Beach Online: Local News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Myrtle Beach
- Myrtle Beach Online: Local News
- Google News: Myrtle Beach local business
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.
