Myrtle Beach city officials wrapped up their two day budget retreat on Thursday.
The recommended budget for the 2020 fiscal year is just under $220 million, $3 million more than previous year.
The budget asks for an extra $1.1 million dollars for the Myrtle Beach Police Department to go toward more officers and four new vehicles.
Myrtle Beach taxpayers could see a property tax increase ranging from $11 to $90.
“We’re adding 10 police officers this year, we are continuing our recruitment and retention plan, we have started the homeless court, we’ve got opioid programs,” said Michelle Shumpert, Director of Financial Management for the City of Myrtle Beach.
It was discussed at the meeting that while it may seem Myrtle Beach is well staffed with officers based on the population, there’s still a need for more due to the population dramatically fluctuating during the summer months.
“Public safety is a shared responsibility and we want to make sure that continues not only throughout the season but every day of the year.” said Chief Amy Prock, with Myrtle Beach Police.
The budget also included two general city positions to be added for $70,000.
For the solid waste fund, $1.3 million dollars was recommended for a new collection route in the city with eight new workers, four pieces of equipment, and a new truck.
GSWSA customers would see a rate increase of 2.2% for water and a 2.4% for sewer.
“We are glad we are having new residents to the city and with that comes additional services that public works provides, water, sewer, infrastructure, as well as our solid waste services that we deliver.” said Janet Curry, Director of Public Works for the City of Myrtle Beach.
City Manager John Pederson says the budget should be finalized in May or June.
