News Summary
The Myrtle Beach Pelicans face uncertainty as negotiations over a critical lease with Horry County officials continue. With the start of their 26th season approaching, discussions focus on the future of Pelicans Ballpark and projected renovations exceeding $20 million. While the city and county work toward a long-term lease, disagreements persist over funding terms. The situation highlights the balance local governments must maintain between financial obligations and the community benefits sports teams provide.
Myrtle Beach – The future of the Myrtle Beach Pelicans, a minor league baseball team, remains uncertain as vital lease negotiations continue with Horry County officials. The Pelicans are set to kick off their 26th season with practice beginning on April 2, 2025, but discussions surrounding the team’s ballpark and future viability could impact whether they remain in the city long-term.
On May 20, 2025, Myrtle Beach Mayor Brenda Bethune met with Horry County officials to deliberate on critical issues affecting the Pelicans’ home at Pelicans Ballpark. Leading these discussions is Chuck Greenberg, franchise owner of the Pelicans, who has been actively engaging with county council members about the stadium’s future. Major League Baseball (MLB) has imposed a deadline of the end of May for necessary improvements to the ballpark, with costs projected to exceed $20 million.
The current discussions focus on the city and county negotiating a 30-year lease agreement for the stadium, which jointly belongs to both entities. While progress has been made towards establishing a general framework for this agreement, substantial differences remain over additional terms, particularly concerning financing for other projects. Horry County is asking the city for concessions in exchange for funding its portion of the stadium upgrades. This includes restoring funding for the Myrtle Beach International Airport and creating an entertainment district to bolster revenue.
However, the city has already rejected these extra terms and has approved a lease without the added stipulations. The financial implications of these negotiations are significant, prompting county officials to underline the need to address the burdens placed on taxpayers. Horry County Councilman Dennis DiSabato emphasized during the council meeting that any agreements made should be mindful of the community’s financial responsibilities.
In addition to the proposed entertainment district, which is estimated to enhance property values and aid in financing the stadium, there is a looming uncertainty regarding past financial agreements. The city previously terminated an arrangement associated with Seascape Properties that affected funding for the county-run airport. In a bid to facilitate negotiations, the county has suggested that the city adhere temporarily to earlier agreements until the legal matters regarding Seascape Properties are resolved.
A further point of negotiation includes the county’s offer to transfer its 30% ownership interest in the ballpark to the city in exchange for $6 million that would be directed towards the necessary renovations, provided the city agrees to Horry’s proposed conditions.
As the discussions unfold, Mayor Bethune and city officials remain open to exploring the county’s offer while expressing concerns about the potential financial burden it places on the city. Should the city choose to reject these terms, they may be compelled to seek a third-party partner to help cover costs for the ballpark’s renovations and upgrades.
The Myrtle Beach City Council is expected to hold a vote regarding the potential ownership of the stadium as early as May 27, 2025. City officials continue to argue for the importance of maintaining the Pelicans’ presence in Myrtle Beach, noting their positive influence on the community and the local charitable landscape. The Pelicans have contributed over $3.3 million to various charitable organizations, underlining their role in enhancing the quality of life in the area.
The ongoing situation highlights the challenges that sports teams face amid municipal negotiations, as cities weigh the financial viability of sponsoring public facilities against the wider benefits of community engagement and support they provide.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Myrtle Beach Pelicans Face Uncertain Future Amid Lease Disputes
Spring Festivals Bloom in South Carolina
Myrtle Beach Pelicans Face Lease Negotiation Crisis
Myrtle Beach Looks Forward to Warmer, Drier Winter
Myrtle Beach City Council Approves 30-Year Lease for Pelicans
Myrtle Beach Council Approves 30-Year Lease for Pelicans
Augusta Celebrates Jackie Robinson Day with Special Game
Discover the Wonders of Myrtle Beach
Myrtle Beach Native Takes Charge in Minor League Baseball
Myrtle Beach Unveils Proposed Budget for 2025-26
Additional Resources
- WMBF News
- Wikipedia: Myrtle Beach
- Post and Courier
- Google Search: Myrtle Beach Pelicans
- Myrtle Beach Online
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Myrtle Beach
- WMBF News
- Google News: Myrtle Beach Pelicans lease
