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Myrtle Beach Expected to Be At 100 Percent Occupancy By May

As businesses begin to reopen and more people get vaccinated, it seems as though a return to “normal” is getting closer. Myrtle Beach officials are hoping to get businesses back to 100 percent occupancy by May. 

Starting on April 1st, gyms, recreation centers and pools in Myrtle Beach can open to 75 percent occupancy. In addition, many government buildings throughout the city including City Hall and the City Services Building will also reopen on April 1st.

However, many of the buildings set to reopen will have their own protocols that visitors must abide by such as mask mandates and temperature checks. 

Mark Kruea, Public Information Director for the City of Myrtle Beach, said that even though things are beginning to open up, everyone should still be vigilant. Kruea said “We need to be mindful that COVID still exists. There are still cases being reported, that you can still spread it to your friends and family or they can give it to you for that matter. The masks are still a good idea. They are still required in indoor facilities, including in restaurants through March.” 

If cases continue to decline, Kruea hopes to open up to 100 percent occupancy by May.

News

City of Myrtle Beach Loses 53 Employees

Due to the ongoing economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, 53 employees of the city of Myrtle Beach have decided to leave their jobs.

Most of the employees are a part of a voluntary severance program that began in June. The voluntary severance package will provide employees their salaries for a quarter of a year as well as medical coverage through the end of the year.

In addition to those individuals voluntarily leaving the city, 10 employees were laid off by the city – all of whom will receive the same severance package.

This decision follows a season of significant decline in tourism to the city of Myrtle Beach. The subsequent decrease in revenue has caused salary cuts to city employees – a move that is expected to save the city around $1.3 million. 

City Manager John Pedersen cited the ongoing financial impact of the pandemic saying, “Every employer in the Grand Strand has faced this as a result of the pandemic,” he said. “It’s not any easier for us than it is for them.”