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Hatley said she is committed to making Myrtle Beach a friendlier place to do business. She's proposed a matching grant of up to $25,000 to encourage property improvements and beautification projects to reinvest in the local economy. To diversify the economy, Hatley says the city needs to start by asking the community about their needs and wants. "If we need to change zoning or ordinances to get what we want, let’s do it," Hatley said. "I hate the term 'we can’t.' Just come up with a way we can." Hatley is in support of the TDF, a 1 percent sales tax that raises money for tourism promotion and provides property tax credits to residents. Hatley said the fee is vital to promoting the city and the foundation of the city’s success is tourism. Kelly, 57, has 40 years of experience in broadcast and communications. His top issues are public safety, transparency and fiscal responsibility. Kelly wants to see a fully staffed police department, increased police presence in the entertainment zone downtown, and what he is calling "bobby stands" that will act as mini police stations. Kelly said these stands would help change the perception of Myrtle Beach. Residents are also concerned about city debt. Before he would vote to spend more money on city projects, Kelly said he would take the time to listen to voters and ask tough questions. Kelly wants council to ensure the TDF will continue to be used to promote the beach and grow tourism. Kelly also said the city needs to make things easier for businesses to open and thrive. He'd like to see the city focus on attracting software and technology jobs that provide good salaries and do not require a huge investment in infrastructure. He does not see Myrtle Beach as a place for heavy industry. Mike Lowder Lowder did not respond to The Post and Courier’s questions, but he did speak at an Oct. 20 candidate forum.
