Discover Reliable, Effective Legal Help for Real Estate Closings in South Carolina

Real Estate Law in Myrtle Beach, SC

As Sarah prepared to close on her dream home in South Carolina, she felt a rush of excitement, envisioning a new life in a new home in North Charleston. However, in her eagerness, she overlooked the crucial step of hiring a real estate attorney. Unbeknownst to her, navigating the complexities of real estate transactions without legal guidance could lead to significant pitfalls. Without an attorney, she risked missing essential details in the contract, encountering unexpected fees, or facing issues with property liens that could jeopardize her investment. As Sarah soon discovered, the intricacies of South Carolina real estate law are best navigated with professional help to ensure a smooth and legally sound closing process.

The truth is that buying, selling, and managing real estate involves many moving parts and often represents the most complex and important investments most people ever make. Real estate closings in Myrtle Beach, SC. are rarely black and white - they require an experienced, detail-oriented eye to examine specifics and protect you as the buyer or seller. That's where Cobb Hammett real estate attorneys come into play. We offer comprehensive, efficient, and high-level legal services regarding all facets of real estate and property issues - from closings and refinances to litigation over property disputes and more.

Before we dive into a few areas of our legal real estate expertise, let's examine real estate law in South Carolina, so you can build your knowledge and make an educated purchase decision.

Real Estate Closing Myrtle Beach, SC

Your Guide to Residential Real Estate Law in Myrtle Beach, SC.

Handling paperwork that needs to be completed promptly and navigating legal issues can be daunting for homeowners in South Carolina who are looking to buy or sell a home. According to data from the South Carolina Realtors, real estate deals in the Charleston area are on the rise, with a 3% increase in single-family closed sales and an impressive 20% rise in townhouse-condo closed sales.

The more you know about real estate law and real estate closings in The Palmetto State, the better off you'll be when it comes time to finally buy or sell your home. Let's take a closer look at a few key elements of residential real estate in South Carolina, including:

  • Real Estate Contracts and Transactions in South Carolina
  • South Carolina Foreclosures
  • Property Rights and Eminent Domain Issues in South Carolina
  • Relationships Between Landlords and Tenants in South Carolina
  • Land Use and Zoning Laws in South Carolina
Real Estate Attorney Myrtle Beach, SC

Real Estate Contracts and Transactions in South Carolina

In South Carolina, real estate transactions are required to adhere to the Statute of Frauds, which stipulates that all contracts related to real estate must be documented in writing to be enforceable. These agreements generally encompass contracts for purchase, sale, and leases that extend beyond one year. It is crucial to ensure that your contract accurately represents the terms of your agreement to prevent any disputes in the future.

Furthermore, South Carolina law requires sellers to disclose any known defects in residential properties. This disclosure is usually made using the South Carolina Residential Property Condition Disclosure Statement. Neglecting to provide accurate information can lead to legal repercussions, like canceling home closings in Myrtle Beach, SC., or pursuing lawsuits for damages.

South Carolina Foreclosures

South Carolina operates as a judicial foreclosure state, which requires lenders to utilize the court system for property foreclosures. This procedure involves initiating a lawsuit, informing the borrower, and securing a court order to move forward with the sale of the property. Borrowers have the option to contest the foreclosure in court or pursue alternative solutions like loan modifications or short sales. It is essential for both borrowers and lenders to have a clear understanding of their rights and responsibilities during foreclosure proceedings.

Property Rights and Eminent Domain Issues in South Carolina

Eminent domain refers to the government's authority to seize private property for public purposes, like constructing roads or schools. In South Carolina, owners of property have the right to receive just compensation if their property is taken under eminent domain. Conflicts frequently arise regarding the compensation amount offered or the validity of the government's claim. If you are confronted with an eminent domain situation, contacting a real estate attorney can help safeguard your rights and ensure you obtain fair compensation.

Relationships Between Landlords and Tenants

The South Carolina Landlord-Tenant Act oversees rental agreements and tenants' and landlords' rights and responsibilities. The key provisions you should know about include the following:

  • Notice Requirements: Tenants have to give notice before they vacate a property. Landlords have to give notice before they enter a unit they're renting, except in emergency situations.
  • Security Deposits: Landlords have to return any security deposit within 30 days of when the tenant's lease ends, minus charges for unpaid rent or damages to the property.
  • Habitability and Repairs: Landlords have to keep rental properties habitable and safe. When a landlord fails to meet this mandate, tenants may be able to take legal action.

Conflicts between property owners and renters frequently occur regarding security deposits, maintenance issues, or eviction processes. Familiarizing oneself with these legal guidelines can assist both sides in settling disputes peacefully or taking necessary legal measures.

Land Use and Zoning Laws in South Carolina

Zoning rules significantly influence how properties may be utilized. These regulations determine if a property can be designated for residential, commercial, industrial, or agricultural use. Zoning laws also govern factors like building heights, setbacks, and the kinds of structures allowed on a property. Before entering a real estate closing in South Carolina - especially for buying a home or a piece of land - it's very important to review local zoning ordinances to ensure adherence to relevant regulations. After all, disputes regarding zoning can result in expensive delays or even necessitate changes to your development plans.

The Importance of Hiring an Attorney for Real Estate Closings in Myrtle Beach, SC.

South Carolina is one of 22 states in the US that mandates attorney supervision for real estate closings. In fact, it's one of the few states where the attorney must be physically present during the closing process.

When buying a home, it's important to be aware of all associated costs, which might lead you to consider the least expensive legal representation. However, it's wise to take your time and look for an experienced real estate lawyer in South Carolina for several reasons. Real estate laws in South Carolina are designed to protect you. However, real estate transactions and closings are often complex, and the average buyer may not fully grasp all the intricacies involved without professional guidance.

Moreover, the role of a real estate attorney extends far beyond just clarifying the terms of the contract before you finalize the sale. A skilled South Carolina real estate lawyer will thoroughly investigate any potential issues and ensure you secure the most favorable terms for your home purchase.

Let's look at just a few reasons why you need a real estate lawyer when you're buying or selling a home in South Carolina. Not just because the law demands it - but because it's in your best interests to do so.

Property Title Search Myrtle Beach, SC

If you've bought property in different states, don't presume that your experience in South Carolina will be the same. Real estate regulations differ from one state to another. For instance, while South Carolina does not mandate a comprehensive home inspection, it does require a termite inspection. Additionally, unlike many other states, a lawyer must supervise all real estate closings in South Carolina. Under South Carolina law, a lawyer is required to assist both the buyer and seller in the following circumstances:

  • Address any title issues (liens, judgments, unpaid taxes, mortgage debts).
  • Outline easements and rights-of-way for access to the property.
  • Complete and sign necessary documents as mandated by state law.
  • Submit these documents to the relevant government agency
  • Make payments according to the terms of the purchase agreement.

This is not an easy procedure. Fortunately, working with a knowledgeable real estate attorney in Myrtle Beach, SC. from Cobb Hammett LLC helps ensure that every step is executed correctly - safeguarding your financial and legal interests.

Commercial Real Estate Closing Myrtle Beach, SC

Refinancing typically involves the rearrangement of a mortgage. In effect, this means replacing an old mortgage with a new one. Many homeowners in South Carolina choose to refinance their mortgages to reduce their interest rates, shorten their repayment terms, or capitalize on the equity they have accumulated.

With that said, a lawyer's oversight is necessary for closing on a home refinance. The mortgage will be tied to the property and influence the title. After the refinancing documents are signed, a knowledgeable real estate attorney will verify that the lender obtains all original documents, that the new mortgage is registered, and that all title policies are prepared to align with the loan obligations. At Cobb Hammett LLC, we always adhere to South Carolina consumer home loan laws to ensure that all refinancing processes comply with state regulations and standards.

Home Purchase Legal Review Myrtle Beach, SC

In accordance with the South Carolina Consumer Protection Code, the buyer normally selects the closing attorney. This ensures that the attorney provides the buyer with a clear title to the property as intended. Realtors and lenders must respect the buyer's decision regarding the closing attorney.

At Cobb Hammett, LLC, our firm treats both the buyer and seller equally throughout the transaction process, offering assistance to both parties. Furthermore, the attorney maintains neutrality and will not advocate for either the buyer or the seller in the event of a dispute regarding the closing procedures of the home.

Refinancing Mortgage Attorney Myrtle Beach, SC

Typically, both the Buyer and Seller will be present at the closing unless documents have been signed ahead of time or remotely. The Buyer and Seller will individually review and sign the necessary documents. It's important to note that if a husband and wife jointly own property in both of their names, both parties must attend the closing. Realtors often choose to attend the closing as well, and sometimes, loan officers may be present, too.

Zoning Land Use Attorney Myrtle Beach, SC

Regardless of whether you're the buyer or seller, you should have two valid forms of identification. Usually, a driver's license and a Social Security card will suffice. You can also present other types of government-issued identification, such as a passport, military ID, or voter registration. The buyer must bring sufficient funds to close the deal in the form of certified funds. Of course, the seller must bring the keys to the property. You might be surprised at how often this last step doesn't happen - most often by accident.

Real Estate Closing Myrtle Beach, SC

We should state upfront that every real estate law firm in South Carolina may have different fees and pricing structures. At Cobb Hammett, LLC, we provide transparent pricing information for every client who walks through our doors. With that said, residential real estate closing lawyers usually charge a flat fee for handling the closing process. Typically, this fee amounts to several hundred dollars, and in some cases, it can exceed $1,000.

Many clients only interact with their real estate closing attorney during the actual closing and may question the reasons behind the fees. However, there is a significant amount of work that closing attorneys must complete in preparation for the closing to ensure the proper transfer of property from sellers to buyers.

To begin, your closing attorney will conduct a title search to verify the status of the property. The title search will confirm that the seller holds complete ownership of the property and is authorized to transfer it to the buyer. The title search will also reveal any easements, encroachments, or other restrictions that may affect the property. The attorney will also draft a title opinion to be provided to a title company. This document is used if the buyer decides to obtain title insurance.

Residential Property Lawyer Myrtle Beach, SC

The role of a closing attorney extends beyond the closing meeting. After the closing, they update the title on the local registry of deeds and record the deed and mortgage, if applicable. They are also responsible for disbursing fees such as brokerage fees, taxes, loan payoffs, seller proceeds, insurance premiums, and inspection fees.

If issues arise after the transaction, the closing attorney may help resolve them. Their guidance is essential for a smooth ownership transfer and ensuring all legal requirements are understood by the parties.

Real Estate Attorney Myrtle Beach, SC

Understanding the Process of Real Estate Closings in South Carolina

If you've bought property in different states, don't presume that your experience in South Carolina will be the same. Real estate regulations differ from one state to another. For instance, while South Carolina does not mandate a comprehensive home inspection, it does require a termite inspection. Additionally, unlike many other states, a lawyer must supervise all real estate closings in South Carolina. Under South Carolina law, a lawyer is required to assist both the buyer and seller in the following circumstances:

  • Address any title issues (liens, judgments, unpaid taxes, mortgage debts).
  • Outline easements and rights-of-way for access to the property.
  • Complete and sign necessary documents as mandated by state law.
  • Submit these documents to the relevant government agency
  • Make payments according to the terms of the purchase agreement.

This is not an easy procedure. Fortunately, working with a knowledgeable real estate attorney in Myrtle Beach, SC. from Cobb Hammett LLC helps ensure that every step is executed correctly - safeguarding your financial and legal interests.

Property Title Search Myrtle Beach, SC

Do You Need a Real Estate Attorney for Refinances in South Carolina?

Refinancing typically involves the rearrangement of a mortgage. In effect, this means replacing an old mortgage with a new one. Many homeowners in South Carolina choose to refinance their mortgages to reduce their interest rates, shorten their repayment terms, or capitalize on the equity they have accumulated.

With that said, a lawyer's oversight is necessary for closing on a home refinance. The mortgage will be tied to the property and influence the title. After the refinancing documents are signed, a knowledgeable real estate attorney will verify that the lender obtains all original documents, that the new mortgage is registered, and that all title policies are prepared to align with the loan obligations. At Cobb Hammett LLC, we always adhere to South Carolina consumer home loan laws to ensure that all refinancing processes comply with state regulations and standards.

Commercial Real Estate Closing Myrtle Beach, SC

Who Picks the Lawyer for Real Estate Closings in Myrtle Beach, SC.?

In accordance with the South Carolina Consumer Protection Code, the buyer normally selects the closing attorney. This ensures that the attorney provides the buyer with a clear title to the property as intended. Realtors and lenders must respect the buyer's decision regarding the closing attorney.

At Cobb Hammett, LLC, our firm treats both the buyer and seller equally throughout the transaction process, offering assistance to both parties. Furthermore, the attorney maintains neutrality and will not advocate for either the buyer or the seller in the event of a dispute regarding the closing procedures of the home.

Home Purchase Legal Review Myrtle Beach, SC

Which Parties Need to Attend Home Closings in South Carolina?

Typically, both the Buyer and Seller will be present at the closing unless documents have been signed ahead of time or remotely. The Buyer and Seller will individually review and sign the necessary documents. It's important to note that if a husband and wife jointly own property in both of their names, both parties must attend the closing. Realtors often choose to attend the closing as well, and sometimes, loan officers may be present, too.

Refinancing Mortgage Attorney Myrtle Beach, SC

What Should Home Buyers and Sellers Bring to South Carolina Real Estate Closings?

Regardless of whether you're the buyer or seller, you should have two valid forms of identification. Usually, a driver's license and a Social Security card will suffice. You can also present other types of government-issued identification, such as a passport, military ID, or voter registration. The buyer must bring sufficient funds to close the deal in the form of certified funds. Of course, the seller must bring the keys to the property. You might be surprised at how often this last step doesn't happen - most often by accident.

Zoning Land Use Attorney Myrtle Beach, SC

Fees Associated with Home Closings in City, State

We should state upfront that every real estate law firm in South Carolina may have different fees and pricing structures. At Cobb Hammett, LLC, we provide transparent pricing information for every client who walks through our doors. With that said, residential real estate closing lawyers usually charge a flat fee for handling the closing process. Typically, this fee amounts to several hundred dollars, and in some cases, it can exceed $1,000.

Many clients only interact with their real estate closing attorney during the actual closing and may question the reasons behind the fees. However, there is a significant amount of work that closing attorneys must complete in preparation for the closing to ensure the proper transfer of property from sellers to buyers.

To begin, your closing attorney will conduct a title search to verify the status of the property. The title search will confirm that the seller holds complete ownership of the property and is authorized to transfer it to the buyer. The title search will also reveal any easements, encroachments, or other restrictions that may affect the property. The attorney will also draft a title opinion to be provided to a title company. This document is used if the buyer decides to obtain title insurance.

Real Estate Closing Myrtle Beach, SC

What Does a Lawyer Do After a Real Estate Closing in South Carolina?

The role of a closing attorney extends beyond the closing meeting. After the closing, they update the title on the local registry of deeds and record the deed and mortgage, if applicable. They are also responsible for disbursing fees such as brokerage fees, taxes, loan payoffs, seller proceeds, insurance premiums, and inspection fees.

If issues arise after the transaction, the closing attorney may help resolve them. Their guidance is essential for a smooth ownership transfer and ensuring all legal requirements are understood by the parties.

Commercial Real Estate Services at Cobb Hammett, LLC

Commercial real estate transactions are distinct from residential real estate dealings in several aspects. Generally, commercial real estate provides less protection for purchasers while enabling more extensive negotiation and deal-making. Due to this dynamic, enlisting a knowledgeable attorney to represent you can be extremely beneficial and can help safeguard your legal and financial interests.

Residential Property Lawyer Myrtle Beach, SC

Our team of seasoned real estate attorneys has experience supporting clients in a wide array of commercial closing issues, including:

  • Escrow
  • Creating Legal Entities
  • Assisting During Due Diligence
  • Title and Closing Paperwork
  • Purchase and Sale Contract Drafting and Execution

Commercial real estate closings in South Carolina require a significant amount of documentation, legal formalities, and terminology that can be daunting and confusing for buyers and sellers in real estate. If you require document reviews, assistance in forming a legal entity to facilitate the commercial real estate buying process, or help with negotiating the real estate purchase, Cobb Hammett is ready to assist.

The Trusted Choice for Real Estate Law in Myrtle Beach, SC.

At Cobb Hammett, we take pride in assisting clients from diverse backgrounds as they manage real estate transactions, including purchases, sales, and refinancing. As a premier real estate law firm located in Charleston, South Carolina, we provide tailored, high-quality legal services for residential and commercial closings and more. We champion your best interests, making certain that you do not enter into any agreements that could compromise your financial or legal standing.

As your dedicated real estate law attorney, we provide reliable representation for matters like:

  • Preparing Loan Documents
  • Reviewing Sale Contracts
  • Completing Title Searches
  • Supervising Closing Document Execution
  • Verify That All Applicable Documents are Recorded and Indexed Correctly

If you're in search of a proactive, effective real estate attorney who addresses every aspect of your residential or commercial closing in South Carolina, look no further than Cobb Hammett, LLC. Contact our office today with your questions or real estate pain points. We'll take the time to listen and will recommend a tailored approach to your legal real estate needs.

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Latest News in Myrtle Beach, SC

ONEflight Myrtle Beach Classic Earns Prestigious South Carolina Governor’s Cup Award

2026 South Carolina Governor’s Cup - Best In Class Event (L-R) Duane Parrish, Tracy Connor, Ferren Rajput and Mike Harman2026 South Carolina Governor’s Cup - Best In Class Event Governor's Cup AwardDENVER, Feb. 18, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- ONEflight International proudly announces that the ONEflight Myrtle Beach Classic, the PGA TOUR event co-title sponsored by ONEflight and Visit Myrtle Beach, has been awarded the South C...

2026 South Carolina Governor’s Cup - Best In Class Event

(L-R) Duane Parrish, Tracy Connor, Ferren Rajput and Mike Harman

2026 South Carolina Governor’s Cup - Best In Class Event

Governor's Cup Award

DENVER, Feb. 18, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- ONEflight International proudly announces that the ONEflight Myrtle Beach Classic, the PGA TOUR event co-title sponsored by ONEflight and Visit Myrtle Beach, has been awarded the South Carolina Governor’s Cup Award for Best-in-Class Event. The honor recognizes the tournament’s exceptional impact on tourism, economic development, media reach, and community engagement across the state.

The ONEflight Myrtle Beach Classic delivered outstanding results in its award-winning year, generating $15.8 million in economic impact, attracting 36,000 spectators, producing over 31 million social media impressions, and raising $225,000 for nine local charities. The event also contributed nearly 10,000 hotel room nights and helped drive record golf participation throughout the region.

"This recognition is incredibly meaningful for our entire organization,” said , President and CEO of ONEflight International. "The ONEflight Myrtle Beach Classic represents everything we believe in - innovation, excellence, and creating experiences that deliver real value to communities, partners, and fans. Winning the Governor’s Cup is a testament to what’s possible when visionary partners come together with a shared purpose.”

"This award is a testament to the power of collaboration and vision,” said Tracy Conner, Interim CEO of Visit Myrtle Beach at the time of the event. "The ONEflight Myrtle Beach Classic showcased Myrtle Beach on a global stage, delivering meaningful economic benefits while creating an unforgettable experience for visitors, residents, and golf fans alike.”

Beyond its economic success, the tournament distinguished itself through innovative fan engagement and player-focused initiatives. ONEflight provided complimentary private flight hours to top-finishing players, reinforcing the brand’s commitment to supporting professional athletes while redefining the intersection of private aviation and sports.

"The ONEflight Myrtle Beach Classic quickly set a new standard for what a modern PGA TOUR event can be,” said Darren Nelson, Tournament Director. "From community impact to player experience and digital engagement, this was a true team effort. Winning the Governor’s Cup validates the hard work of our partners, volunteers, and sponsors who helped bring this event to life.”

The ONEflight Myrtle Beach Classic will return May 7-10, 2026, at the Dunes Golf and Beach Club, continuing its role as a cornerstone event for Myrtle Beach tourism and South Carolina sports.

About ONEflight International

ONEflight International is a global private aviation company revolutionizing the luxury private jet travel industry since the company’s founding in 2010. It is the fastest-growing market leader developing and implementing technological solutions for non-commercial air travel through BAJit, its proprietary online Book a Jet platform. With over 700 world-class selected aircraft charter operator partnerships and a network of 7,000 private jets worldwide, ONEflight empowers members to seamlessly search, select and book a private flight with a fleet of aircraft at their disposal and excellent customer service from booking to disembarking.

To discover more, visit ONEflight.net.

For media inquiries, please contact:

Dave Rajyagor - VP of Strategic Initiatives

ONEflight International

Email: [email protected]

Phone: (800) 990-5387

Photos accompanying this announcement are available at:

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/f2f4b274-8ea9-460a-ac3a-263dbbef145c

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/2b55ced0-4fd8-412b-b3ed-3464d3ddd0b3

DEA discusses ongoing investigations, drug trends in Myrtle Beach

MYRTLE BEACH, SC (WMBF) - The Drug Enforcement Administration made a stop in Myrtle Beach on Tuesday to discuss ongoing investigations.Assistant Special Agent in Charge Michael Tooley said the DEA is continuing to investigate smoke shops across South Carolina.In December, the administration conducted operations at smoke shops statewide, including Horry County, that were believed to be selling illegal THC products.Tooley said today that those raids were also looking for illegal psilocybin, a hallucinogenic.He adds ...

MYRTLE BEACH, SC (WMBF) - The Drug Enforcement Administration made a stop in Myrtle Beach on Tuesday to discuss ongoing investigations.

Assistant Special Agent in Charge Michael Tooley said the DEA is continuing to investigate smoke shops across South Carolina.

In December, the administration conducted operations at smoke shops statewide, including Horry County, that were believed to be selling illegal THC products.

Tooley said today that those raids were also looking for illegal psilocybin, a hallucinogenic.

He adds that the substance is often in edible products but not listed on the label.

According to Tooley, many of the illegal products are marketed to appeal to children.

“Many of these products are marketed to young people, students, and contain bright colored packaging, but contain highly addictive and potent THC-based products marketed as legal hemp, or chocolate bars containing psilocybin,” Tooley said.

The DEA urges the public to contact them if they are aware of a smoke shop selling illegal THC products that is located near a school, college, park, or playground.

Tooley said 7-hydroxymitragynine, or 7-OH, is another drug raising red flags in smoke shops across the state.

The substance has been linked to overdoses, poisonings, and emergency room visits.

Authorities are currently working to make 7-OH a scheduled drug, but the DEA is aware of the substance’s presence in South Carolina smoke shops.

Outside of smoke shops, Tooley said the DEA has uncovered a new drug of concern in Myrtle Beach in the last month.

Medetomidine, along with xylazine, was found mixed with other substances during a drug bust in Myrtle Beach.

Both substances are currently approved for veterinary use only, and are highly addictive, said Tooley.

Tooley said the two drugs are not opioids, but are commonly mixed with them, making them extra deadly as they do not respond to opioid reversal agents.

“They are potentially deadly, in and of itself, used in higher doses, but they do not respond to Narcan or naloxone,” Tooley said.

Tooley also discussed a downward trend in deadly overdoses in Horry County.

In 2025, 129 deadly overdoses were recorded, down from 165 in 2024. In both years, more than half of the overdoses involved fentanyl.

Feel more informed, prepared, and connected with WMBF. For more free content like this, Have feedback that can help us improve?

Here's why a healthcare provider will be able to open a psychiatric hospital in Murrells Inlet

CONWAY — A psychiatric hospital will be able to open in Murrells Inlet after Horry County Council approved a settlement with the operator on Feb. 3.The 8-4 vote came after many neighbors criticized the hospital's location, saying they didn't want this type of facility near their homes. But most county leaders ultimately concluded the hospital was needed and the settlement would avoid an uphill court fight."We've got to move forward," County Council Chairman Johnny Gardner said, adding that he understood the oppo...

CONWAY — A psychiatric hospital will be able to open in Murrells Inlet after Horry County Council approved a settlement with the operator on Feb. 3.

The 8-4 vote came after many neighbors criticized the hospital's location, saying they didn't want this type of facility near their homes. But most county leaders ultimately concluded the hospital was needed and the settlement would avoid an uphill court fight.

"We've got to move forward," County Council Chairman Johnny Gardner said, adding that he understood the opposition in that community but “this is a countywide issue.”

Asha Vista Behavioral Institute plans to open a 78-bed inpatient mental healthcare facility in the former Hope Arbor Assisted Living Facility along S.C. Highway 707.

In September, the county’s Zoning Board of Appeals unanimously rejected Asha Vista’s request for a special exception to accommodate the project. The board’s vote followed an outpouring of community opposition.

Asha Vista then filed a lawsuit that accused the county of discriminatory zoning practices that violated the Americans with Disabilities Act.

After mediation in December, the county reached a tentative settlement with Asha Vista, but council members wanted to hear from the public before voting on the deal. They held a town hall meeting last week, and that event drew both supporters and opponents.

Residents from nearby neighborhoods spoke out against the proposed location, raising concerns about safety, facility security and lower property values. Supporters countered that the hospital would provide much-needed services in a growing county.

The newly approved agreement will require Asha Vista to make about $1 million in facility improvements. These include an on-site security guard, fencing and gates, and a video security system. The agreement also prevents Asha Vista from becoming a drug or alcohol treatment facility.

Before the vote, Tyler Servant, whose district includes the site of the proposed hospital, urged council members to vote no with him because the residents in that area did not want it.

"Just like all development, whether it be residential, commercial or healthcare, it needs to be done in the right way at the right place at the right time," he said.

Councilwoman Jenna Dukes, however, shared that she had lost a family member because that person didn’t have access to a facility like the one Asha Vista plans to build. She said that mental health is an issue that impacts everyone in Horry.

"I have to support the rest of the county," she said.

Some council members said that if they didn’t approve the settlement they likely would lose in court, wasting public money and losing any concessions in the settlement.

“I understand that your community might want to blow the tax money on defending a lawsuit that we're going to lose,” Gardner said, addressing the critics. “And they're going to be able to do this hospital anyway. ... But the rest of the county should not have to make that sacrifice. It's a big county. This is a step in the right direction."

Council members Bill Howard, Danny Hardee, Al Allen, Mark Causey, Tom Anderson and Mike Masciarelli joined Dukes and Gardner in supporting the settlement. Council members Servant, Cam Crawford, Dennis DiSabato and Gary Loftus opposed it.

After the vote passed, Servant was critical of some of his peers.

“It just goes to show you got to be really careful who you elect in political positions,” Servant told The Post and Courier.

Many of the opponents who attended the meeting were also upset about the outcome. Murrells Inlet resident Anthony Michael Cosentino called the vote disgraceful.

“We are for people getting help,” he said. “But not in our backyard.”

Asha Vista released a statement after the meeting saying the provider is committed to being a good neighbor.

“This decision recognizes a simple truth: our community is facing a real and growing mental health care shortage, and families deserve access to safe, hospital-based care close to home,” the statement read.

UPDATE: Upstate SC placed under an extreme cold watch Saturday and Sunday

The creation of this content included the use of AI based on templates created, reviewed and edited by journalists in the newsroom. Read more on our AI policy here.On Friday at 1:47 a.m. the NWS Greenville-Spartanburg SC issued an updated extreme cold watch valid from Saturday 7 p.m. until Sunday 10 a.m. The watch is for Oconee Mountains, Pickens Mountains, Greater Oconee and Greater Pickens as well as Cherokee, York, Anderson, Abbeville, Laurens, Union, Chester, Greenwood, Greenville and Spartanburg counties.The NWS sta...

The creation of this content included the use of AI based on templates created, reviewed and edited by journalists in the newsroom. Read more on our AI policy here.

On Friday at 1:47 a.m. the NWS Greenville-Spartanburg SC issued an updated extreme cold watch valid from Saturday 7 p.m. until Sunday 10 a.m. The watch is for Oconee Mountains, Pickens Mountains, Greater Oconee and Greater Pickens as well as Cherokee, York, Anderson, Abbeville, Laurens, Union, Chester, Greenwood, Greenville and Spartanburg counties.

The NWS states, "Dangerously cold wind chills as low as 7 degrees below possible."

"The dangerously cold wind chills as low as 5 below zero could result in hypothermia or frostbite if precautions are not taken," comments the NWS. "Dress in layers including a hat, face mask, and gloves if you must go outside. To prevent water pipes from freezing; wrap or drain or allow them to drip slowly. Make frequent checks on older family, friends, and neighbors. Ensure portable heaters are used correctly. Do not use generators or grills inside."

This watch is in effect until Sunday at 10 a.m.

Extreme cold watch: Be Prepared. An extreme cold watch is issued when dangerously cold air temperatures or wind chill values are possible. As with a warning, adjust your plans to avoid being outside during the coldest parts of the day. Make sure your car has at least half a tank of gas, and update your winter survival kit.

Extreme cold warning: Take Action! An extreme cold warning is issued when dangerously cold air temperatures or wind chill values are expected or occurring. If you are in an area with an extreme cold warning, avoid going outside. If you have to go outside, dress in layers, cover exposed skin, and make sure at least one other person knows your whereabouts. Update them when you arrive safely at your destination.

Cold weather advisory: Be Aware. A cold weather advisory is issued when seasonably cold air temperatures or wind chill values, but not extremely cold values, are expected or occurring. Be sure you and your loved ones dress appropriately and cover exposed skin when venturing outdoors.

Source: The National Weather Service

United Robots South Carolina

Impactful winter storm to bring snow to the Carolinas and Georgia this weekend

Another round of winter weather will be possible beginning late Friday through early Sunday in the Carolinas, Virginia and Georgia. With cold air locked in place, this will mainly be a snow event, with some light ice possible along coastal regions.What You Need To Know While there are still a lot of details to be confirmed, trends are showing a developing coastal low off the Carolinas. With cold air in place, this means significant, impactful snow for the Carolinas, Georgia and Virginia this weekend....

Another round of winter weather will be possible beginning late Friday through early Sunday in the Carolinas, Virginia and Georgia. With cold air locked in place, this will mainly be a snow event, with some light ice possible along coastal regions.

What You Need To Know

While there are still a lot of details to be confirmed, trends are showing a developing coastal low off the Carolinas. With cold air in place, this means significant, impactful snow for the Carolinas, Georgia and Virginia this weekend.

Winter Weather Alerts

Winter Storm Warnings will go into effect Friday afternoon for the region. A Winter Storm Warning is issued when snow will be impactful across the warned zone and travel may become difficult. Snowfall totals could exceed 8 inches.

Timing of the snow

The amount of snow will depend on the location of the low pressure and its proximity to the coast. With moderate temperatures along the coast, at the onset, a wintry mix with snow, sleet and even light freezing rain may be possible before becoming all snow.

Temperatures are forecasted to be colder than last weekend, so the majority of the precipitation would fall as snow elsewhere across South Carolina, North Carolina and Georgia. Here's one model's interpretation of the snow, beginning late Friday with most of the flakes falling during the day on Saturday before ending early Sunday.

The heaviest snow will fall Saturday night into Sunday morning along the eastern part of North Carolina.

Snowfall totals

Snowfall totals will be highest along central and eastern North Carolina with isolated amounts upwards of a foot of snow. Moderate snow will fall along the entire state of South Carolina, with lesser amounts in northeastern Georgia.

Reduced visibilities

As this storm system strengthens, winds will increase with gusts up to 50 mph, with the highest gusts along the eastern part of the region. Snow kicked up by gusty winds could reduce visibility. White out conditions are possible especially Saturday night into Sunday.

This forecast is very fluid, as are all snow events, so please stay with Spectrum News for any updates. Download the Spectrum News app to follow the event as it unfolds and tune in to your local Weather on the Ones forecast.

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