Horry County Notebook | Public input requested for use of housing funds

Two public meetings have already been held, but those interested in commenting on housing and community developments in Horry County still have opportunities to do so.

Over the 2012 fiscal year, community development block grant funds allotted to Horry County from the Department of Housing and Urban Development will exceed $1.85 million.

The Horry County CBD is asking area residents to express their views on how best to allocate those funds.

Diana Seydlorsky, director of the county’s community development office, said 20 people attended the two public meetings held on Jan. 12 and 24. The resounding suggestion at those meetings was continuing the county’s housing rehabilitation program, she said.

“Mostly, it’s essentially repairs,” Seydlorsky said about the program. The repairs are generally roof, plumbing, heating and electrical.

The various districts decide how much money is invested in individual home repairs, Seydlorsky added. Some may give $25,000, while others could jump to $30,000.

In 2011, there were 171 people on the waiting list for housing rehab, Seydlorsky said.

For those interested in seeing the housing rehab remain, or who have other suggestions on how to spend the money, they can complete an online survey by going to www.horrycounty.org and clicking on the link.

Written comments can be delivered to the community development office at 1515 Fourth Ave., in Conway, or e-mailed to seydlord@horrycounty.org.

For more information, contact the community development office at 915-7033.

Aynor overpass construction update

Bluewater Road remains closed for bridge construction at the Aynor overpass site on U.S. 501.

Starting next week, there will be a lane closure on S.C. 319. Gum Street and Old Tram Road will be closed from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. either Monday, Tuesday, or Wednesday.