Georgetown County Legislative Breakfast highlights smart growth and infrastructure priorities

More than 250 business leaders, community members, and elected officials gathered at Pawleys Plantation for the Georgetown County Chamber of Commerce’s 2026 Legislative Breakfast. The annual event featured a candid, lively discussion with the state delegation centered on managing the region’s rapid growth while fostering sustainable economic opportunity.

Moderated by Laura Crowther, CEO of the Coastal Carolinas Association of REALTORS®, the panel featured Senator Stephen Goldfinch, Senator Ronnie Sabb, Representative Carl Anderson, and Representative Lee Hewitt.

Infrastructure and the “Wood Basket”

Senator Goldfinch opened the session with a focus on the strain of a growing retiree population on local infrastructure. He noted that as newcomers arrive from other states, South Carolina must explore creative tax solutions to offset the lack of traditional income tax.

Goldfinch also issued a stark warning regarding the state’s forestry industry following the 2024 closure of the International Paper mill.

“Georgetown County is the state’s wood basket,” Goldfinch said. “If we don’t support our timber industry, landowners will have little choice but to sell, leading to even more rooftops and residential sprawl.”

Connecting the Region

Representative Anderson echoed the urgency of infrastructure reform, citing his own daily commute from Kensington as evidence of local gridlock. The delegation confirmed a unified commitment to widening Highway 521, a critical project intended to streamline transportation from I-95 to Georgetown.

Anderson also highlighted the region’s strides in education and workforce training, praising the leadership of Dr. Bethany Giles (GCSD Superintendent) and Dr. Marilyn Murphy Fore (HGTC President).

Workforce and Waterways

Representative Hewitt expanded on the workforce theme, emphasizing that training must go beyond entry-level skills.

• Professional Growth: Hewitt argued for advanced, ongoing training to ensure residents can build lifelong careers within Georgetown County rather than seeking advancement elsewhere.
• Murrells Inlet Dredging: After seven years of federal permitting delays, Hewitt shared an optimistic update, noting that pressure from Senator Lindsey Graham and Congressman Russell Fry may finally see dredging begin this fall.

Advocacy and Conservation

Senator Sabb closed the discussion by emphasizing the balance between economic progress and environmental stewardship. He praised the appointment of former County Administrator Sel Hemingway as the DOT Commissioner for the 7th District, noting that Hemingway’s expertise provides the county with a powerful advocate for transportation funding. He also expressed excitement for the development of the new Black River State Park, which will add recreational opportunities for residents and visitors to the area.

Key Issues at a Glance

The panel also addressed several emerging challenges for the 2026 session:

• Economic Development: The impact of energy-intensive data centers and the need for new project incentives.
• Rising Costs: The escalating price of road construction materials and labor.
• Insurance Reform: Ongoing efforts to stabilize the state’s insurance market.