County briefing flags detention-center needs and public-safety staffing amid population growth

As part of the retreat staff presented projected service needs tied to population growth and a consultant's detention-center assessment that modeled inmate population, separation requirements and renovation versus new construction options.

Barry, the county administrator, said the consultant recommended a first-phase new housing unit of approximately 318 beds with an appropriate medical facility and female housing; cost ranges offered by the consultant ranged from an estimated $33 million (partial renovation) up to $84-$102 million for larger options, while a new 318-bed unit was roughly projected at about $90,000,000. "The first phase of their recommendation is to build a new housing unit of about 318 beds... and that cost based on their projections about $90,000,000," S2 said. Staff noted a $60,000,000 placeholder in the CIP for 2027 design work and said any choice will likely exceed that amount and require additional financing strategies.

Public-safety discussion also covered EMS capacity, station relocations and plans to add units in high-call corridors (Myrtle Beach 21st Avenue, North Myrtle Beach/Windy Hill, Socastee, Conway and others). Staff projected the county will need to add roughly 91 positions per year to sustain current service levels under a 2.4% annual growth assumption and flagged 323 current vacancies across county positions, many concentrated in public safety. Council asked staff to prioritize detailed cost modeling and phasing options before making final funding decisions.