Will Conway have a new mayor? One candidate answers questions

It’s been a busy year for Conway.

The city saw its beloved historic Whittemore School destroyed by fire and then months later was introduced to what would be the largest planned development in its history.

Leaders in the Horry County seat also grappled with the kinds of challenges over taxes, controlled growth and public safety that its surrounding communities experience.

Mayor Barbara Blain-Bellamy hopes she’s done enough to earn another term. To do it, she’ll have to fend off a challenge from former Horry County Schools board chairman Ken Richardson, who in 2021 also launched an unsuccessful bid for Congress.

Richardson did not respond to multiple emails, phone calls and text messages seeking his participation in The Sun News’ candidate questionnaire.

Some of Blain-Bellamy’s responses have been edited for length.

Barbara Blain-Bellamy

• Age: 71
• Prior political experience: Two terms on Conway City Council, two terms as mayor
• Occupation: Attorney
• Education: Associate’s degree from Coastal Carolina University, bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the University of South Carolina, law degree from the University of South Carolina’s School of Law.
• Political affiliation: none
• Past/present bankruptcies, tax liens or felony convictions: none

Q: Conway for the first time came out in support of Pride Month. How do you see your role in promoting diversity and inclusivity?

A: As Conway’s mayor, it was I who proclaimed Pride Month in Conway. My explanation is simple. I have lived discrimination, alienation and disrespect for human beings based on human differences. Among them, race, religion, financial and social status, and sexual identity. I believe all people are God’s own creation and design. I will continue to promote growing love and respect among all people.

Q: For years, the former Whittemore school was in disarray and nothing happened. What steps should the city take now, and why should residents have confidence that something positive will occur this time?

A: The step recently taken at my recommendation by the Conway City Council is the development of an ad hoc, citizen task force to develop a practical, achievable and sustainable plan for the property that honors the history and future of the site and the city.

Q: 3. Two large-scale residential developments have been proposed on Conway’s north end, and the town has said it wants to grow along the U.S. Highway 501 corridor. Can all of this be done without raising taxes to support the costs of new services?

A: Preliminary studies on the added costs for services by the city to large numbers of new residential units suggest that tax increases are not imminent. We will utilize every means to have added infrastructure paid for by developers, and in the case of highways, improvements are the responsibility of the S.C. Department of Transportation. Residents of the city have enjoyed no tax increases for over a decade. The affordability factor for residents’ abilities to maintain owned property is of paramount concern to this city council. Related implications will be carefully considered as we continue to make decisions on these and future developments.

Q: Riverfront development remains a focal point as part of the city’s long-term plan. How can the district be made more pedestrian friendly, and would you support an “alcohol consumption zone?”

A: I do not plan to support a consumption zone in the Riverfront or elsewhere. Conway is family-oriented. Patrons don’t give up much to be required to finish or abandon an alcoholic drink before leaving an establishment. As development occurs, the city already owns property therein for public parking, green spaces and for accessibility for pedestrians. These pieces will be developed at a time commiserate with their actual use(s).