MYRTLE BEACH, SC (WBTW) – William Bryan Jr., of Murrells Inlet, was hired to be the city’s new attorney on Tuesday.
The appointment, made by the city council, is for a one-year term, beginning May 23, with a starting salary of $150,000.
“I’m looking forward to the challenge of a new role,” Bryan told News13. “Like you mentioned this is something that’s totally different. I’ve never been a city attorney before, so I’m excited about the new journey. I think the city is entering a new era, and I’m excited to be a part of it,” Bryan said.
Longtime Myrtle Beach City Attorney Thomas Ellenburg will be retiring in June. Ellenburg was appointed to his first one-year term in May 2000 and has served as city attorney since them.
Bryan has two decades of experience as an attorney. He has represented the city as outside counsel in both state and federal courts. He is a 1996 graduate of Hampden-Sydney College with a bachelor’s and earned his Juris Doctor from the University of South Carolina in 1999.
Bryan is an attorney and shareholder in Collins & Lacy, P.C. and a partner in charge of the firm’s Grand Strand office. He was recognized as a South Carolina Super Lawyers Rising Star (2013-2014).
Council received 10 applications for the position and interviewed four finalists, all residents of Horry County.
“This was a difficult decision,” said Mayor Brenda Bethune. “We are fortunate to have qualified candidates to consider.”
Mayor Bethune said, “On behalf of the full city council, we are excited to welcome Mr. Bryan as our next city attorney and very much look forward to working with him.”
