Episode Transcript
[00:00:27] Speaker A: Hello, Georgetown County. It's been an incredible year full of progress, collaboration and innovation. I'm Jackie Broach and I'm excited to join you along with Randy Akers and Maya Morant to share the highlights of 2024.
This year, our focus has been on building a brighter future for every resident. And we have so much to celebrate.
[00:00:50] Speaker B: From major infrastructure upgrades to groundbreaking community programs, 2024 was a year of action. We took bold steps to ensure Georgetown county continues to grow, prosper and thrive.
[00:01:06] Speaker C: And today, we're thrilled to take you through all the ways your county government work to improve our community. So let's dive into the accomplishments that shape this transformative year.
[00:01:17] Speaker A: Let's start with the backbone of our county operations, administrative services and human resources. This year we earned the prestigious High Performance Employer Award for improving employee health.
Our innovative health clinic has made a real difference in offering free care and medications that have saved the county over 13% in healthcare costs over five years.
And this isn't just about numbers. It's about real people. For example, one of our employees shared how the clinic's accessibility helped their family address a serious health issue without added financial stress.
[00:01:55] Speaker B: On the economic front, Georgetown county has positioned itself for incredible growth at the Georgetown County Airport. The completion of the Economic Development Administration project paved the way for up to four aviation related businesses, creating high paying jobs and boosting our local economy.
Meanwhile, the Georgetown County Business center in Andrews welcomed new companies like Ford Fry and Craft Made Foods, signaling a strong demand for industrial opportunities.
[00:02:30] Speaker C: And we're planning for the future too. This year, we secured $6.5 million in federal funding to dredge Georgetown Harbor. This critical project will restore the harbor to its full potential, ensuring safety for recreational and working boats and preserving its role as a vital economic and cultural hub.
[00:02:51] Speaker A: Our Public Services department made incredible strides in 2024. We completed over $3.3 million in road improvements, making travel smoother and safer for residents. And we didn't stop there. Projects like the Murrells Inlet Bike Bridge and the Waverly Road Bike Path are connecting our communities in exciting new ways.
[00:03:12] Speaker B: Public safety remains a top priority. This year, Georgetown county was again recognized as a fire safe community thanks to proactive EFF our Fire department.
We also updated our hurricane evacuation plan to focus on storm surge impacts, reducing unnecessary evacuations and improving overall safety.
[00:03:36] Speaker C: Our Emergency Services department set a new standard for excellence. Director Brandon Ellis was named Director of the Year for his leadership during Tropical Storm Idalia and his work on deployable satellite communications.
These innovations aren't just technical.
[00:03:52] Speaker A: They're life saving this year we celebrated a major milestone, the 225th anniversary of our library system. Through $45,000 in grants and generous local support, we hosted community programs that honored our rich history while looking to the future. The newly renovated Georgetown library, with its expanded auditorium and modernized spaces, is a true testament to the power of community.
[00:04:17] Speaker B: Investment in parks and recreation. The GOAT program, launched to encourage outdoor adventure. Residents explored trails, biked, paddled and learned compass navigation, all while connecting with nature and our kids. Track trails added an educational twist, engaging children with fun, interactive learning activities.
[00:04:41] Speaker C: Our Sheriff's Office also took community engagement to the next level. Programs like the Sheriff's Explorers Post provided hands on law enforcement experiences for high school students, while the expanded Reentry program helped reduce recidivism rates by training participants in high demand trades like welding and H Vac repair.
[00:05:03] Speaker A: Environmental stewardship was another key focus. Our Parks and Recreation Department joined efforts to combat plastic pollution through the R Marsh Counts initiative, hosting litter sweeps and educational programs. These activities remind us of the importance of preserving Georgetown County's natural beauty for future generations.
[00:05:22] Speaker B: Innovation played a big role in our accomplishments. The digitization of property records by the Register of Deeds office has streamlined access for residents, while grants supported new technology upgrades in emergency services and public safety.
[00:05:39] Speaker C: And we're not stopping looking ahead. Projects like the new Emergency Operations center and expanded recreational facilities will ensure Georgetown county continues to grow while staying true to our values of community, safety and innovation.
[00:05:54] Speaker A: As we reflect on 2024, it's clear that our county is stronger, more connected and ready for the future.
[00:06:03] Speaker B: Every success we've shared today is thanks to the collaboration of county staff, leadership and you, our residents.
Together, we're making Georgetown County a better place to live.
[00:06:16] Speaker C: Thank you for being a part of this journey. We can't wait to see what we'll accomplish together in 2025 and beyond.
[00:06:23] Speaker A: Here's to a bright future for Georgetown county and thank you for joining us.
