Greater Burgess Community Association – Update on Wards Soft Serve & Storage
The Greater Burgess Community Association has been working closely with Horry County Planning and Zoning to find a practical solution that protects both Wards Soft Serve and the long‑term interests of the Burgess community.
After several discussions, the County and GBCA proposed a compromise that would allow the Ice Cream Shop to continue operating within the existing BO1 zoning designation. Under this agreement, retail use for the ice cream stand would be formally permitted, bringing the business into compliance without requiring a full commercial rezoning.
BO1 zoning, however, only allows boat storage. It does not permit RVs, trailers, or other vehicle storage. As part of the compromise, our Councilman Cam Crawford has agreed to amend the zoning to include these other vehicles..
With this agreement in place, Wards Soft Serve will continue operating just as it has for the past several years, and hopefully for many more to come. This solution protects a popular local business while also safeguarding the long‑term character and stability of the surrounding community.
Despite the public outcry and misinformation circulating online, we are pleased that the GBCA and Horry County were able to work together to secure an outcome that benefits both the residents, the Wards and maintains responsible land‑use planning for the future.