Myrtle Beach approves funding change for beach wheelchair program

WMBF News reports that MYRTLE BEACH, SC (WMBF) - The Myrtle Beach City Council has approved a budget amendment to use hospitality tax funds to support a beach wheelchair program.

Council passed the second and final reading of the ordinance that authorizes the use of the hospitality tax fund balance to provide beach access mobility devices.

PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Myrtle Beach council approves first reading of beach wheelchair program funding City officials said standard wheelchairs can be difficult, and sometimes impossible to use in sand.

The city previously offered beach wheelchairs before the COVID-19 pandemic, but officials said the program was labor-intensive for staff due to phone calls, rentals, maintenance, and accountability.

The new plan would provide four automated, no-fee rental systems and lockers to store beach wheelchairs.

The vendor would be responsible for maintaining the system and the wheelchairs, according to the city’s summary.