North Myrtle Beach City Council voted last night on an ordinance that allows the city to grow its tax base without adding any additional burden on any city residents. A special city council meeting was scheduled to vote on the ordinance. The ordinance passed first reading. The measure is expected to pass second reading, adding a much needed source of new tax revenues for the city. Measure as worded by city

15th Circuit Solicitor Jimmy Richardson released an extensive report from SLED. The report fully exonerates Horry County Council Chairman Johnny Gardner and his business partner, Luke Barefoot. County Council Chairman Gardner won the popular vote last November with over 80,000 votes cast. Gardner’s integrity in Horry County is beyond question. His popularity among residents only grows with the release of this report, coupled with the manner in which the chairman comported himself throughout the process.