As omicron surges, Horry County limits access to public buildings
Horry County government leaders on Monday announced that they would limit public access to government buildings due to a surge in COVID-19 cases caused by the virus’ omicron variant.
Cases of COVID-19 are the highest they’ve ever been in Horry County, with the state Dept. of Health and Environmental Control recording nearly 4,600 new cases in the county over the past two weeks. More than five dozen county employees have tested positive for COVID-19 recently and another 53 are in quarantine while they await test results, the county said in a news release Monday afternoon.
According to the news release, all residents not feeling well should avoid county buildings and other public facilities. Those who must visit county buildings are encouraged, though not required, to wear a face mask. County leaders are encouraging residents who must visit a county facility to call ahead and either conduct business online, or make an appointment.
Residents visiting the government and justice center in Conway should check in with county staff in the atrium where they may be asked to wait there, or outside, until a county employee can assist them with their needs.
Additionally, the Auditor’s South Strand office is closed, and the Treasurer’s office is open for drive-thru business only.
Residents needing to visit the M.L. Brown Public Safety building, a fire station or police precinct should call ahead and make an appointment, the county said.
The restrictions to county buildings come as COVID-19 cases reach their highest levels in South Carolina yet, filing Horry County hospital beds to near capacity. Horry County government has taken similar steps to restrict public access to its buildings as COVID-19 spread.
County spokesperson Kelly Moore said the new restrictions to county facilities won’t apply to County Council, Planning Commission or other public meetings, meaning residents will still be able to attend in person and make public comments.
County leaders asked residents be patient while seeking county services as COVID-19 has affected staffing levels.
“Like many other organizations in our community, our staffing levels are being impacted by the latest surge in the virus and we ask for your patience during this time,” the county said in the news release.
The restrictions come as many residents are paying last year’s property taxes, transactions that increase foot and phone call traffic in county buildings. The county, in its news release, urged residents to call county offices first before visiting in person.
“This is a very busy season for our tax offices, and our in-person, over the phone, and drive thru traffic volumes are already increased,” the release said.
County officials said they continue to monitor the spread of COVID-19 and that conditions could change in the near future.
“As conditions continue to change, additional changes to service may be necessary,” the news release said. “For that reason, we encourage everyone to be in touch with the offices they need by phone prior to visiting our facilities for the latest information.”
