Our Fall Newsletter, Tides & Times: Exploring North Myrtle Beach, is out now! Flip through the pages, catch up on the latest happenings, and enjoy reading about the beautiful city we all know and love, North Myrtle Beach. Note: As you flip through the pages, there will be boxes over select words that appear. Feel free to click on those if you would like to learn more about that particular topic.
Exploring North Myrtle Beach Tides & Times
Inside This Issue Important Dates City Projects Updates
Basketball Registration for Coed Rookie (ages 5-6), Boys (ages 7-15), and Girls (ages 7-13) will be held October 7-11 for Residents and October 12-November 3 for Non-Residents. The league age is the player’s age on September 1, 2024. For more information, visit www.Parks.NMB.US/Register.
Fire Department Safety Reminders Hurricane Season: Are You Prepared?
Join your hosts, Lauren Jessie and Officer Pat Wilkinson, as they talk public safety, special events, council decisions, and so much more! Find the City’s podcast, Beachside Briefings , everywhere you get your podcasts and the City’s website . Tune into the City’s Podcast!
IMPORTANT DATES October 2: 3D Mobile Mammography Screening October 4: Pedal in the Park October 7: Teen Life Skills Class October 7 - 11: Resident Basketball Registration October 7 - 16: Pumpkin Decorating Contest Drop-Off October 8: Self Defense Class for Women (Every Tuesday for 5 Weeks) October 10: NMB Police Foundation Volunteer Fair October 11: Movies at McLean October 12: National Faith & Blue Weekend October 12: Lights By The Sea October 12 - November 3: Open Basketball Registration October 18: Seasonal Schedule for Short- Term Rental Trash Collection Ends October 18: NMBPD and Mission BBQ Trunk or Treat October 26: Buddy Up For Breast Cancer 1 Mile Walk October 26: Halloween BOOnanza October 29: Pretty In Pink Zumba Dance Party October 30: Main St. and NMBPD Trunk or Treat November 2: Wellness Fair November 2: Flavors of Fall November 2: Citywide Cleanup Day November 4 - 16: No Joining Fee on Annual Memberships at AFC November 6: Get Out & Learn November 8: Seniors Safety Class November 11: Veteran’s Day Ceremony November 22: Dashing through the Glow November 23: Dashing through the Glow November 25: Seniors Safety Class November 25 - December 30: The Great Christmas Light Show December 1: Pet Photos with Santa December 3: Christmas Tree Lighting December 5: Wreath Making Workshop December 7: Christmas Cantata December 7: Christmas Parade December 8: Christmas Cantata December 12: Seniors Safety Class December 14: Pet Photos with Santa
December 14: Parents Night Out December 23: Mini Kids Craft Camp December 23: All Sports Mini Camp December 30: Mini Kids Craft Camp December 30: All Sports Mini Camp
October 31: Cops on the Coop at Chic-Fil-A November 1: Cops on the Coop at Chic- Fil-A
*To learn more about each event, click on the name of the event.
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UPCOMING MEETINGS
Regular City Council Public Meetings - 7 PM October 7, October 21, November 4, December 2 Planning Commission Public Meetings - 5 PM (Workshop Day Of Meeting - 9:15 AM) October 8, October 22, November 12, December 3 Board of Zoning Appeals Meetings - 5 PM October 10, November 14, December 12
YOUR ELECTED OFFICIALS
Mayor Marilyn Hatley Email: mayor@nmb.us
Nikki Fontana Windy Hill Email: njfontana@nmb.us Trey Skidmore At-Large Email: rtskidmore@nmb.us Bubba Collins Ocean Drive Email: bccollins@nmb.us
Mayor Pro Tempore J. Baldwin Crescent Beach Email: jobaldwin@nmb.us
Hank Thomas At-Large Email: hathomas@nmb.us Fred Coyne Cherry Grove Email: jfcoyne@nmb.us
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Sign Up For A Membership Today
There are daily and weekly passes, as well as monthly and annual memberships for young adults, individuals, couples, parent/child, families, senior individuals, senior individuals (restricted), senior couples, and senior couples (restricted). Where there is something for everyone, invest in your health and join today!
Birthday Parties
The Aquatic & Fitness Center is the perfect location to host a birthday party for your child, ages 3 and up! There are three package options available with different accommodations included. Whether you are interested in a Gym Party, Pool Party, or Create and Celebrate Party - Contact Morgan Slagle at (843) 281-3741.
Breast Cancer Awareness Month
The Aquatic & Fitness Center has gone pink for the month of October in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Check the Calendar of Events, www.NMB.us, and their Facebook page for more details on these events. T-Shirts are available for purchase in the Front Lobby of the Aquatic & Fitness Center. All proceeds will be donated to Caring In Our Lifetime.
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Did You Know?
All dumpsters in the City are for private use only, even if they are located on public property. City sanitation customers who need to dispose of household garbage or other items between normal collection days should bring bagged garbage, recyclebles, yard waste, and e-waste to the City’s Solid Waste Transfer Station at 1220 2nd Avenue South. Open Monday - Friday, 7 AM - 3 PM and Saturday - Sunday, 7 AM - 12 PM.
Apply Today
Are you looking for a seasonal or part- time job? The City of North Myrtle Beach is hiring, and we want you !
To View Openings and Apply, Visit: www.NMB.us
Market Days
The last Farmers Market of the season will be October 25 from 10 AM to 3 PM. The Holiday Market will begin on November 1, and will be held every Friday from 12 PM to 4 PM through December 20. Both of these markets are located between the Library and City Hall.
Volunteer Opportunities
Would you, your group, or business like to perform a one-time clean up event for team building or community service? Keep North Myrtle Beach Beautiful can help by directing your group to specific area(s) for cleaning and loaning out supplies.
For More Information, Email: knmbb@nmb.us.
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City Projects Updates
Cherry Grove Public Parking Lot Restrooms
Moving Overhead Utilities Underground
The City’s program of placing above- ground utilities underground has resumed with the construction on North Ocean Boulevard between 29th Avenue North and 34th Avenue North. Work began in November 2023 and paused mid-May 2024 for the summer season. This project has reached 50% completion, with most underground conduits and vaults installed. The next phase will consist of utility company installation of their wires and equipment. The anticipated completion is Fall 2025. This project consists of converting overhead electrical and communications wiring to an underground conduit system; then, removing the overhead wiring and power poles. Similar conversion projects have been accomplished throughout the City with positive results. Please be advised, drivers may experience delays, lane closures, and detours as the project progresses along North Ocean Boulevard from 29th Avenue North to 34th Avenue North. The City has initiated design for an additional segment, extending this project from 34th Avenue North to 39th Avenue North, with construction to follow in late 2025.
The Cherry Grove Public Parking Lot Restrooms, located near 62nd Avenue North, are nearing completion. These public restrooms will be similar to the public restrooms at Shorehaven Drive and 21st Avenue South. The anticipated completion date is mid- October, weather dependent. McLean Park Restrooms The final touches are being done at the McLean Park Restrooms! The anticipated completion date is early October. The new restroom structure features four standard restrooms and one handicap accessible restroom. For comparison, these restrooms are similar to the oceanfront public restrooms at 39th Avenue South.
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The Planning and Development Department consists of three divisions: Building, Planning, or Zoning. The building division’s primary responsibilities are plan review, enforcement of all relevant construction codes, issuance of building permits, and construction inspection. They maintain the City’s Insurance Service Organization program and the Community Rating Service of the National Flood Insurance Program, which helps secure low cost flood insurance for City residents. Did You Know?
Park & Sports Complex Expansion The expansion of this facility will allow the City to host larger tournaments, as well as multiple tournaments and special events at one time. Youth Sports have grown tremendously, especially in baseball, softball, and soccer. The additional fields included in this expansion will allow more of our local youth to participate in youth sports.
Phase two of the extension of Champions Boulevard is 55% complete. Contractors are installing the infrastructure for drainage and the base for the road. The anticipated completion date for phase two is Spring 2025. Phase three of the extension of Champions Boulevard is under contract and the design has been completed. The start date of phase three is dependent on the completion of phase two. The anticipated completion date is September 2025.
Included in the Expansion: • Five Soccer Fields • Six Baseball Fields • Freshwater Ponds • Walking Trails • Playgrounds • Picnic Shelters
Construction began in May 2024. Grubbing and site preparation are nearing completion. Contractors are digging ponds, grading, and working on erosion control. This is anticipated to continue for the next few months, weather dependent. The next steps will include in-ground drainage, utility infrastructure, and building pad preparation. Once these items are complete, the above ground work will begin.
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SMOKE ALARMS TURKEY TIPS TURKEY TIPS
Smoke alarms are a key part of a home fire escape plan. When there is a fire, smoke spreads fast. Working smoke alarms give you an early warning so you and your family can get outside quickly. • A closed door may slow the spread of smoke, heat, and fire. Install smoke alarms in every sleeping room and outside each separate sleeping area. Install alarms on every level of the home and in the basement. Smoke alarms should be interconnected; when one sounds, they all sound. • Large homes may need extra smoke alarms. • Test all smoke alarms at least once a month. Press the test button to be sure the alarm is working. • Today’s smoke alarms will be more technologically advanced to respond to a multitude of fire conditions, yet mitigate false alarms. • A smoke alarm should be on the ceiling or high on a wall. Keep smoke alarms away from the kitchen to reduce false alarms. They should be at least 10 feet (3 meters) from the stove. • People who are deaf or hard-of-hearing can use special alarms. These alarms have strobe lights and bed shakers. The City partners with the state of South Carolina to provide smoke alarms for deaf/hard-of-hearing residents. • Replace all smoke alarms when they reach 10 years old. If a citizen needs help with changing batteries or replacing old smoke alarms, the North Myrtle Beach Fire Department will happily assist, at no charge. The City provides free smoke alarms to members of the community that meet certain socio-economic conditions. If you have questions about your smoke alarm, please contact Deputy Fire Marshal West at 843-280-5611 ext 2.
There are more home fires on Thanksgiving day than on any other day of the year. Don’t let a cooking incident spoil the day. Every home should have working smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) alarms. • Stand by your pan. If you leave your kitchen, turn the burner off. • Keep an eye on what you fry! Consider using the new “oil-less” turkey fryers. • Only use a turkey fryer outdoors at least 20’ from the home structure, on a sturdy surface, and away from things that can burn. • Roll up your sleeves. This reduces the chance that they’ll catch fire. • Supervise children and pets. Make sure they stay away from the stove. • Watch what you’re cooking! If you see any smoke, or grease starts to boil, turn the burner off. • If there’s an oven fire, keep the door closed. Turn off the oven and keep the door closed until it’s cool. • Move items that can burn away from the stove. This includes dishtowels, bags, boxes, paper, and curtains. • Turn the pot handles toward the back of the stove. This is so no one can bump them or pull them over. If the fire is not quickly extinguished, leave the house and call 9-1-1 from outside.
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LIGHTS, CANDLES, ACTION
Any celebration increases the chance of a fire, and the holiday season is no exception. Remember these important fire safety tips. Live Christmas Trees • Choose a fresh tree with dark green needles that don’t fall out when touched. • Cut two inches off the tree trunk before use. • Place the tree at least three feet away from any heat source. • Water the tree daily.
• Discard the tree if it becomes dried out. • Never place dried-out trees in a garage. • Recycle your Christmas tree. Candle Safety • Keep candles at least one foot away from anything that can burn. • Never leave a burning candle unattended. • Consider flameless candles. Home Safe Home • Replace any worn or broken cords or loose bulb connections. • Never plug an extension into another extension cord. • Turn off Christmas tree lights before going to bed at night. • Take outdoor electrical lights down after the holidays. • Make sure guests are aware of your home fire escape plan.
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It is beginning to look a lot like Christmas at the North Myrtle Beach Park & Sports Complex! The Parks & Public Grounds team is in full prep mode for The Great Christmas Light Show. They began at the end of June by installing structures, tunnels, trussels, and light poles. They have shifted their focus to installing ground items. The Great Christmas Light Show is a park-wide lighted celebration that is sure to capture the true spirit of the season! The drive through light show will feature over 2 million lights festively displayed along a 2-mile drive throughout the North Myrtle Beach Park & Sports Complex. Over 500 magical light displays, some up to 55 feet tall, have been custom made for The Great Christmas Light Show. Visitors will experience NEW enchanting animated figures and holiday scenes where the lights will come to life. After journeying through the light show, we invite everyone to park their car and visit Santa’s Village where they can enjoy hot chocolate and s’mores, get an up-close look at the lights on the Santa Express Train Ride, and, of course, meet Santa! The Great Christmas Light Show Drive Through Experience will be open Monday, November 25 through December 30*. Gates will be open from 5:30 PM to 9:30 PM. Santa’s Village will be open Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday ONLY from November 29 through December 15. Open nightly December 19 through 30 (Closed on Christmas Day). *Closed on Thanksgiving Day, November 28, and Christmas Day, December 25.
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EMERGENCY PREPAREDNE
Hurricane Season runs from June 1 to November 30 . The City of North Myrtle Beach encourages all residents to have a hurricane safety plan .
The state of South Carolina adjusted the hurricane evacuation zones in North Myrtle Beach and along the coast. Hurricane Evacuation Zones and FEMA Flood Zones are different from one another. Flood Zones are mapped by FEMA for use in the National Flood Insurance Program. Hurricane Evacuation Zones are based on storm surge potential modeled from data by the National Hurricane Center. In South Carolina, hurricane evacuations are issued by the Governor. All evacuations issued are considered mandatory. In Horry County, there are three evacuation zones: A, B, C. These zones are based off of storm surge potential and not the category of the storm. Even if you do not live in an evacuation zone, you can evacuate. Keep in mind, even if you are not in a designated evacuation zone, you may still experience other impacts from a hurricane - high winds, tornadoes, heavy rainfall, flash flooding, and power outages.
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ESS: HURRICANE EDITION To search your home or business address directly, utilize the Interactive Know Your Zone Map . Be aware that law enforcement and the South Carolina National Guard may be posted along evacuation routes to assist drivers. If individuals deviate from the primary evacuation route, they may experience delays and be rerouted back to the primary route. In the event of a hurricane, the City’s goal is for the return of property owners and others to North Myrtle Beach as soon as possible following a hurricane evacuation so that all can help in the recovery process. However, some areas of the City may not be safe or essential utilities may be damaged, resulting in delayed reentry to the affected locations.
The City of North Myrtle Beach continues to expand our capabilities in providing the best level of service to our residents and visitors. During tropical storms/hurricanes, our Fire Department staffs high water vehicles and boats to be able to quickly access those in need. Our Police Department utilizes additional resources at their disposal to assist in traffic control, as well as working along with the Fire Department for water rescue incidents. Our Public Works Department utilizes crews to help keep barricades placed in areas impacted, as well as heavy equipment to help remove debris blocking roadways to allow emergency vehicles to have clear access. HOW DO WE PREPARE?
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EVACUATION ZONES: Take SC 9 North to I-95 or take SC 22 to US 501 to Marion.
Zone A Zone B
57
Evacuation
90
Park & Sports Complex
City of North Myrtle Beach Limits
31
22
Barefoot Resort
31
17
B
Grande Dunes North
A
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9
n Route (Typ)
Tidewater
90
17
A
B
BUILD YOUR EMERGENCY EVACUATION KIT: Water (2 Gallons/Person/Day) Prescription Medications
Change of Clothes/ Warm Clothes
Important Documents
Extra Batteries
Non-Perishable Food
Phone/Charger
Toiletries
First Aid Kit
Pet Items
Maps
Cash
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PET CARE AND SAFETY IN EMERGENCIES
When preparing a family emergency plan, including pets is essential. In preparation, there are a handful of items to consider: • Maintain your pets’ immunizations and secure copies of these documents • Microchip your pets and utilize ID tags on their collars • Evacuate with your pets outside of the evacuation zones • Prepare a kit for each of your pets: • Cage or carrier large enough for your pet to stand and turn around in • Leash and harness • Food and water bowls • Food for 3 days • Medications • Health records and care instructions • Microchip numbers • Litter box with litter and clean-up supplies
Keep in mind, landmarks and scents may become unrecognizable after a hurricane, which could cause them to become lost and confused. If your pets become lost, contact your veterinarian, animal control organization, or county/state emergency managers for assistance. They will be able to assist with searching lists and databases of found and sheltered animals.
Be sure to monitor your pets closely after an emergency. Pets may become defensive or aggressive, in which case, it is recommended to leash dogs and keep them in a fenced yard with access to water and shelter. It is crucial for all pet owners to be responsible and take all precautions. The primary focus of emergency workers during any storm will be the safety of human lives.
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Debris Removal Guidelines To expedite removal, separate debris into the following categories:
Check with your local office of emergency management for more information on debris removal.
Large Appliances Refrigerator, washer/dryer, air conditioner, stove, water heater, dishwasher. Do not leave doors unsealed or unsecured.
Vegetative Debris Tree branches, leaves, logs, plants.
Construction Debris Building materials, drywall, lumber, carpet, furniture, & plumbing.
Electronics Television, computer, stereo, phone, DVD player.
Hazardous Waste Oil, battery, pesticide, paint, cleaning supplies, compressed gas.
Never touch, cut, remove, or place debris on downed lines: ▪ Can result in injury or death ▪ Placing debris near utility boxes or on lines can cause injury or damage.
Placing debris near or on trees, poles or other structures makes removal difficult. This includes fire hydrants and meters.
Placing debris near utility boxes or on lines can cause injury or damage.
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From heavy rains to hurricanes, you’ll be covered. Hurricane season is here, and one of the most important steps homeowners can take is to buy ood insurance. Flooding is the most common, and costly, natural disaster in the United States. In fact, just one inch of water in an average-sized home can cost more than $25,000 in damage. Invest in ood insurance today. Make sure you’re protected this hurricane season. Most homeowners and renters insurance policies do not cover ood damage, and ood insurance policies don’t automatically renew. Call your insurance agent today, or learn more at FloodSmart.gov/hurricane .
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Flood Prepared
Being prepared is the best defense against damage from flooding and other disasters. Steps to being flood prepared include: 1. Know Your Hazard 2. Insure Your Property 3. Protect Your Family and Self 4. Protect Your Property 5. Build Responsibly 6. Protect Natural Floodplain Functions 7. Emergency Preparedness 8. General Preparedness 9. Flood Education To speak to the City of North Myrtle Beach’s Floodplain Manager with questions about your property, please call Kendra Elliott at 843-280-5622.
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RECEIVE ALERTS CONTACTS • Dispatch Non-Emergency Line 843-280-5511
• Sign up for Emergency Alerts through the City’s website (www.nmb.us). These alerts will pertain to emergency events (weather, traffic) that are impacting the City. • Sign up for Email Notifications through the City’s website (www.nmb.us). These notifications will pertain important, need-to- know information. • Download the South Carolina Emergency Management Division’s official app to prepare for emergencies. • Register for CodeRED Alerts through the South Carolina Emergency Management Division’s website (www.scemd.org).
• EOC Non-Emergency Public Line 843-663-8778 • SC Department of Transportation 888-877-9151
• American Red Cross 843-477-0020
• SC Department of Insurance 803-737-6160
• SC CareLine
1-855-472-3432
• SC Salvation Army 704-522-4970
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TERMS TO KNOW Watch: Advisory issued by the National Weather Service that a tropical system could pose a threat to our area within 36 hours. Warning: Advisory issued by the National Weather Service that a tropical system will pose a threat to our area within 24 hours or less.
Cake Watch
Cake Warning
Tropical Depression: An organized storm with a circular pattern with maximum sustained winds of 38 mph or less. Tropical Storm: An organized storm with a circular pattern with sustained winds between 39-73 mph. Hurricane: An organized storm with a circular pattern with sustained winds of 74 mph or greater. Threat: Expectation that a tropical storm/hurricane watch will be soon announced for our area. Identifies moving into Response Actions to prepare for any further needed actions. Hurricane Eye: Relatively calm area in the center of the storm. In this area, conditions greatly improve and clear skies may be present before they quickly deteriorate once the eye passes over the area. Hurricane Eyewall: Dense wall of intense thunderstorms and strong winds that surround the eye of the storm. Typically the most damaging and destructive winds the storm produces. OPCON: Operating Conditions Level. Established by the South Carolina Emergency Management Division. The City of North Myrtle Beach OPCON level almost always reflects that of Horry County Emergency Management. There are three (3) Levels: • OPCON 3:Normal Daily Operations • OPCON 2:Increased Readiness • OPCON 1:Full Alert Mode
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Seaside Session This quarter’s Seaside Session is brought to you by Planning & Development.
Preparing for Cooler Weather As the leaves begin to change and temperatures start to dip, fall in North Myrtle Beach signals that cooler weather is finally on the horizon. While our winters are mild compared to other regions, preparing your home for the seasonal shift is still an essential task. Taking proactive steps now can enhance your home’s comfort, energy efficiency, and safety throughout the cooler months ahead. Why Prepare? Even without harsh winter conditions, cooler temperatures impact your home: • Energy Efficiency: Drafts and poor insulation lead to higher bills as heating systems work overtime. • Comfort: Addressing minor issues prevents them from becoming larger problems during unexpected cold snaps. • Property Value: Well-maintained homes retain their value should you decide to sell in the future. Fall Improvement Projects • Updating Insulation: Enhancing attic or wall insulation helps maintain indoor temperatures. • Sealing Windows and Doors: Weatherstripping prevents drafts and conserves energy. • HVAC System Check: Servicing your heating system ensures it operates efficiently when needed. • Installing Efficient Windows: Replacing old windows can improve energy efficiency and comfort.
Role of Building Permits Permits are not just bureaucratic paperwork— they are safeguards for you, your family, and the community: 1. Ensures Safety Compliance: Permits require that all work meets current building codes and safety standards. 2. Protects Your Investment: Proper documentation can be vital when refinancing or selling your home. 3. Avoids Legal Issues: Unpermitted work can result in fines. 4. Guarantees Quality Work: Licensed contractors who pull permits are accountable for adhering to regulations. How to Obtain a Permit Our Planning & Development Department is here to assist you through the permitting process. The building permit process is online, and one application covers all permit needs. Access our permit application on our website! Navigating permits and regulations can seem overwhelming, but our staff is dedicated to making the process as smooth as possible. Don’t hesitate to reach out with questions or for guidance on your specific project. For more information, please visit our department website or contact us at 843-280-5560.
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Stay Connected With North Myrtle Beach!
Follow Us On Social Media: Visit Our Website: www.NMB.us
Download Our App: City of NMB Listen To Our Podcast: Beachside Briefings Sign-Up For Emails/Alerts
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