In a move that is sure to ruffle some feathers, Horry County officials have announced that they will be raising passenger fees for casino boats operating in the area next year. This decision comes as a result of the county’s efforts to generate more revenue to offset budget deficits and fund various projects.
According to a statement released by the county, the new passenger fees will go into effect on January 1st, 2022. The fees will see an increase of 10% from the current rate, meaning that passengers will now have to pay $20 per person to board the casino boats. This increase is expected to generate an additional $500,000 in revenue for the county over the course of the year.
While some may see this as a necessary move to support the county’s financial needs, others are not pleased with the decision. Several casino boat operators have expressed their concerns, stating that the higher fees could deter customers from coming aboard and ultimately hurt their business.
In response to these concerns, Horry County officials have insisted that the fee increase is necessary for the county to meet its financial obligations and maintain essential services. They have also pointed out that the new fees are still competitive compared to other similar destinations in the region.
This decision has sparked a debate among residents and business owners in the area, with some advocating for the fee increase as a way to support the county’s needs, while others argue that it could have negative impacts on the local economy.
As the new year approaches, it remains to be seen how this fee increase will affect the casino boat industry in Horry County and whether it will achieve the desired financial goals for the county. One thing is for certain – this decision will have a lasting impact on the community and its stakeholders.