Horry County’s administration committee has reallocated $200,000 for parks and recreation funding, according to Kelly Moore, with the county.
The Parks and Recreation department is currently operating with a shortfall of about $400,000 per year, Moore said. By moving the money around, the county was able to lower the deficit for this fiscal year.
“However, there are still long term budget implications and I think you will see further discussion on the Parks and Rec fund during the budget process this year,” Moore also said. “There are items like capital projects, deferred maintenance, and unfunded positions that have not yet been addressed, and would require additional funding.”
The money was formerly set aside for Myrtle Beach’s library slated to be built on 21st Avenue.
Last week, during the county’s fall planning retreat, officials said the county was running out of money to keep the parks and recreation activities operating at current levels. They discussed two options: maintaining existing revenues, which would mean closing about 25-33% of facilities and programs, or raising taxes.
“Council’s got a hard decision to make to look at you know do you reduce the services that we’re providing or do you raise taxes or what do we do to balance that budget so we can continue to provide the services that are being asked of our residents and as our population grows,” Council Chairman Mark Lazarus told News13.