It’s that time of year again, time to get back to school, and while the days of summer begin to quiet, the impact of tourism lingers on, including playing a crucial role in shaping the Grand Strand’s educational landscape.
From K-12 schools to higher education institutions like Horry-Georgetown Technical College (HGTC) and Coastal Carolina University (CCU), the local tourism industry and its associated taxes, including the penny sales tax, have been instrumental in driving significant enhancements in our schools.
This summer, Horry County Schools approved a $1.16 billion budget, its first spending plan over $1 billion, that included salary increases for all employees and a longevity-based 2 percent step increase, and enhanced safety and security measures.
Along with finding information on annual budgets, the Horry County Schools website offers detailed information on its Capital Improvement Plans.
One of the most significant contributors to the funding of local schools is the penny sales tax. This small but mighty tax, which adds just a penny to each dollar spent, has generated millions in revenue that directly benefits educational institutions across the region. With more than 17 million visitors to the area each year, non-residents contribute heavily to this tax, helping to alleviate the financial burden on locals while ensuring our schools can continue to thrive.
Horry County voters last approved the continuation of the penny sales tax for schools in the referendum held in 2022. This approval extended the tax for another 15 years, ensuring continued funding for school construction, renovation and other educational needs across the county. The Education Capital Improvement Sales and Use Sales Tax fund capital improvements provide 80 percent of revenues to Horry County Schools, 13.3 percent to CCU and 6.7 percent to HGTC.
As of June 2022, over $953.6 million has been collected from the sales tax with non-residents contributing to over half the proceeds thanks to the region’s vibrant tourism industry. In recent years, this funding has led to remarkable improvements not only across K-12 schools, but at HGTC and CCU.
Recently, HGTC has embarked on several significant projects aimed at expanding its offerings and enhancing the student experience. One of the most notable enhancements is the expansion of the Advanced Manufacturing Center, which now includes state-of-the-art equipment and training programs tailored to the needs of the local workforce. This expansion not only provides students with the skills they need to excel in high-demand fields but also supports the region’s economic growth by supplying a well-trained workforce to local industries.
Additionally, HGTC has made strides in improving its health sciences programs, with new simulation labs that offer students realistic training environments. These investments ensure that HGTC remains a leader in producing highly skilled graduates ready to contribute to the healthcare sector.
CCU has also seen remarkable growth in recent years, both in terms of student enrollment and campus development. One of the standout projects is the expansion of the Lib Jackson Student Union, which now features additional study spaces, dining options, and recreational facilities. This development not only enhances the student experience but also fosters a strong sense of community on campus.
Furthermore, CCU has invested in expanding its academic programs, particularly in areas such as marine science and business. The new research facilities and partnerships with local industries provide students with unparalleled opportunities to engage in hands-on learning and gain valuable experience in their chosen fields.
Learn more about how CCU benefits from the penny sales tax at www.coastal.edu/facilities/pennysalestax.
As students across Horry and Georgetown counties head back to school, it’s clear that the local tourism industry and the penny sales tax play a vital role in shaping the educational landscape. The continued investment in our schools ensures that the region remains a vibrant and thriving community where education is prioritized.
