News Flash

Georgetown County has issued a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) to begin development of a Master Plan for the transformative redevelopment of the Georgetown Port property. This marks a critical step forward in reimagining one of the county’s most valuable assets into a destination where innovation, commerce and community converge. 

The county, which took ownership of the 40-acre property in mid-2023, is seeking proposals from national-caliber planning and development experts to help shape a visionary Master Plan. The goal is to balance economic opportunity with environmental stewardship and community needs, creating a roadmap for redevelopment that will benefit residents and businesses for generations. 

“The release of this RFQ marks an exciting step forward in reimagining the future of the Georgetown Port property,” said Kelly Robertson-Slagle, Georgetown County Economic Development Director. “This process will allow us to engage top planning and development experts to help shape a visionary Master Plan that balances economic opportunity, environmental stewardship, and community needs. The Port is one of our county’s most valuable assets, and through this effort, we are laying the foundation for transformative redevelopment that will benefit Georgetown County residents and businesses for generations to come.” 

A site rich in history and opportunity 

Georgetown became a port of entry in 1732. In its prime, the port was a key driver of the local economy, handling 1.8 million tons of cargo in 2000. By 2017, activity had declined to just 7,500 tons, and the last cargo ship came through in 2016. 

Since assuming ownership, the county has completed environmental studies, started site cleanup and removed dilapidated structures. A full structural assessment revealed $13.6 million in deficiencies, underscoring the scale of investment needed. Today, the port property is best described as “rough,” though it continues to house a handful of businesses. 

“This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to transform underutilized waterfront property sitting right on the edge of our historic tourist district into a hub that truly reflects Georgetown County’s future,” Robertson-Slagle. 

The vision ahead 

The RFQ process will remain open for six weeks. Interested firms will be invited to a site visit and information session at the port next month, providing an opportunity to tour the property and ask questions before submitting proposals. 

After review, a shortlist of three to five firms will be invited to submit detailed proposals to lead development of the Master Plan. 

“Five years from now, we see the Georgetown Port as a reimagined waterfront destination — a place where innovation, commerce, and community converge,” Robertson-Slagle said. “What is today an underutilized property will be on its way to becoming a vibrant hub that draws investment, attracts visitors, and inspires pride across Georgetown County. The Port will symbolize resilience and renewal, blending modern economic opportunities with our rich maritime heritage.” 

Community impact 

The redevelopment of the port property has long been identified as a key priority for Georgetown County leadership. County Administrator Angela Christian and her team have made significant progress in preparing the site, clearing environmental hurdles and positioning the property for redevelopment. 

“This is more than just an economic development project,” said Robertson-Slagle. “It’s about shaping the future of Georgetown County, creating spaces where our residents can thrive, and ensuring that our waterfront reflects both our history and our aspirations. We want the community to feel hopeful and excited about what’s ahead.” 

The RFQ is posted on Georgetown County’s procurement system and is available to interested firms nationwide.

For more information, visit seegeorgetown.com or contact Georgetown County Economic Development at (843) 545-3161. 

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At the request of International Paper (IP), Georgetown County provided a location for company officials to meet with local leaders on June 23. The purpose of the meeting was for IP to provide an update on the status of the sale of its property located in Georgetown.

Invitations were issued by IP and attendees included: S.C. Rep. Rev. Carl Anderson, Georgetown County Council Chairman Clint Elliot, County Administrator Angela Christian, County Economic Development Director Kelly Robertson-Slagle, Georgetown Mayor Carol Jayroe and Georgetown City Administrator Scott Whittier.

During the meeting, IP confirmed it is managing the sale process internally and has chosen not to use an outside commercial broker. Company officials reported that they have received multiple bids from unique and diverse groups and expressed that they are pleased with the level of interest in the property.

IP stressed that no final decision has been made regarding a purchaser at this time. The next steps include a comprehensive evaluation of each submitted bid. This evaluation will consider a number of key factors, some of which include the bidder’s capacity to successfully complete a project of large scale, financial strength, and the long-term viability of the future use of the site. Once a top proposal is selected, the prospective contract purchaser will enter a due diligence period. While IP was unable to provide a definitive timeline, company officials anticipate that the process will take several months to a year to complete.

Additionally, International Paper reinforced its ongoing commitment to both the City of Georgetown and Georgetown County, particularly regarding continued access to water from the IP Canal. All prospective buyers have been informed of this long-term commitment and of the need to ensure ongoing access to water from the canal.

Local officials expressed appreciation for the meeting and stressed the desire for the company’s transparency, collaborative approach, and commitment to keeping the community informed as the process continues. International Paper also reaffirmed its commitment to continue to provide local stakeholders updates to the fullest extent possible.

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On May 13, Georgetown County Council approved an agreement for "development of a Joint Industrial, Business, Commerce and Residential Complex" with Horry County at the Port. The action has raised a lot of questions about exactly what that means. In short, it's an economic development tool and does not mean there is a current plan for the port property.

Here's what it really means:

A Multi-County Industrial Park (MCIP), Business Park, Commerce Park, Residential Complex or combination thereof is a special designation under South Carolina law that allows two or more counties to jointly designate land for industrial or commercial development. Despite the name, the park does not have to span multiple counties geographically—only one county may host the property, but another county must participate in the agreement.

Why are MCIPs used?

MCIPs are primarily used as a financial incentive tool to attract and retain businesses. They allow counties to:

• Offer Fee in Lieu of Taxes (FILOT) agreements
• Redistribute tax revenue for infrastructure and development
• Support job creation and private investment

They are not physical parks, but rather legal and financial designations on paper that allow counties to apply flexible financing mechanisms to support economic development.

Key Benefits of MCIPs:

1. Fee in Lieu of Taxes (FILOT):
   • Qualified companies can negotiate lower property tax payments (usually over 20–30 years), often at a reduced assessment rate (6% or 4% instead of the standard 10.5%).
   • FILOTs are only allowed if the project is located in a designated MCIP.
2. Revenue Sharing Between Counties:
   • The host county typically keeps 99% of the revenue, while the partner county receives 1% as a symbolic share to meet legal requirements.
   • This inter-county collaboration fosters regional cooperation.
3. Special Source Revenue Credits (SSRCs):
   • Counties can return a portion of the FILOT payments to the company as an added incentive, helping offset upfront costs like land purchase, utilities, or site preparation.
4. Infrastructure Funding:
   • Counties can use a portion of the tax revenue generated within an MCIP to fund public infrastructure (roads, water/sewer, broadband) that supports the development.

How the Process Works:

1. A company announces a potential investment.
2. The county (or counties) negotiate a FILOT agreement with the company.
3. The site is placed into a MCIP via an ordinance passed by the county councils of both participating counties.
4. The company receives the benefits of reduced taxes, and the county gains economic growth and job creation.

Why This Matters for Economic Development:

MCIPs are a powerful tool for leveling the playing field with other states offering competitive incentives. They allow South Carolina counties to:

• Make large-scale industrial projects more affordable and attractive
• Encourage long-term investment
• Boost employment and expand the local tax base (even with reduced rates)

In the wake of the recent closure of the International Paper mill, Georgetown County and the City of Georgetown are keeping a close eye on the future of the property and the potential it holds for economic growth and job creation.

Though the site is privately owned and no redevelopment plans have been formally announced, local officials say they are optimistic about what lies ahead and are committed to supporting opportunities that will benefit the community.

“This is a prime industrial site with a long legacy in our community, and it represents a significant opportunity moving forward,” said Georgetown County Council Chairman Clint Elliott. “We look forward to future discussions with prospective developers or companies about the property’s next chapter. While the zoning currently allows for heavy industrial use, our focus remains on economic development and job creation that aligns with community needs.”

Officials acknowledged community concerns circulating online regarding the nature of potential redevelopment and emphasized that no specific business or industry has been confirmed for the property at this time.

“We understand that people care deeply about what happens next at this site – and we do, too,” said Georgetown Mayor Carol Jayroe. “But it’s important to note that this is private property. Our role is to be available, supportive, and collaborative when opportunities arise, and to advocate for outcomes that are in the best interest of our residents and local economy.”

The mill site has drawn significant attention in recent months following International Paper’s announcement in late 2024 that it would cease operations at the facility after nearly 90 years in Georgetown. The closure affected more than 670 employees and left a lasting impact on families and businesses throughout the region.

Since then, Georgetown County has been working with local, regional, and state partners to assist displaced workers and promote economic resiliency. That work is ongoing, with a focus on creating new employment opportunities and attracting investment.

“This is a transformative moment for our community,” Elliott said. “We’re committed to navigating it with transparency, collaboration, and an eye toward a brighter economic future.”

Georgetown County Administrator Angela Christian is pleased to announce the hiring of Kelly Robertson-Slagle as the county’s new Economic Development Director. Robertson-Slagle will officially step into the role on May 27.

Her arrival comes at a critical time for economic development in Georgetown County, as the community navigates the impacts of recent industrial closures, including the International Paper mill and the Georgetown steel mill. Additionally, ongoing efforts to clean up and redevelop the Georgetown Port present both challenges and great opportunities for economic growth. 

“This is a tremendously opportune time to be part of the transformation of Georgetown. There are great opportunities here and we’re looking forward to having Kelly be part of that and part of Team Georgetown,” Christian said.

Robertson-Slagle comes to Georgetown from Maryland, where she has worked in economic development for more than 25 years. She has experience with economic development at the local, regional and state levels, and brings a wealth of knowledge in business attraction, retention, workforce development and strategic economic growth. She said she is excited to bring her experience, passion and commitment to Georgetown County and looks forward to collaborating with stakeholders to drive economic growth, while maintaining the area’s rich history and natural beauty. 

She is also looking forward to becoming a part of the community in an area she has already come to love. Her youngest daughter graduated from Coastal Carolina University and now works in North Myrtle Beach. 

“When my oldest moved to the area too, my husband Jeff and I quickly realized this was the place for us,” Robertson-Slagle said. “We already had our hearts set on moving here when we retire. When I saw the job posting for an economic development director, it seemed like a perfect opportunity to move our plans up.”

 The couple already owns a second home in Murrells Inlet and have been frequent visitors to Georgetown County for the better part of a decade.

“We’ve literally fallen in love with Georgetown County,” she said. “It couldn’t be a better situation. And I’ve already met some amazing people through the interview process.”

Robertson-Slagle currently serves as the Director of Economic Development for Charles County, Md., where she led a 12-person department focused on attracting capital investment, expanding employment opportunities and fostering business development. She also spearheaded agricultural development initiatives and marketing strategies to support local industries. 

She spent 15 years with the Calvert County Department of Economic Development, where she held key leadership roles in business retention, expansion and entrepreneurship before serving as Director from 2017 to 2021. Additionally, she was the Director of the Maryland Small Business Development Center for Southern Maryland, overseeing business advisory programs, and worked for the Maryland Department of Commerce, assisting local jurisdictions with economic growth initiatives. 

Robertson-Slagle will step down as the Secretary for the Maryland Economic Development Association Board of Directors at the end of April, is a founding board member of the Southern Maryland Innovates initiative and is the past Chair of the Southern Maryland Regional Innovation Collaborative. She also previously served as Chair of the Southern Maryland Economic Development Association and was a board member for the Cedar Point Federal Credit Union, the University Systems of Maryland at Southern Maryland Board of Advisors, and the College of Southern Maryland Foundation. 

Robertson-Slagle said she has a deep appreciation for small businesses and entrepreneurs, having grown up in a family that has owned and operated businesses for generations. She understands firsthand the dedication, hard work and resilience required to build and sustain a thriving business, she said. 

A dedicated leader in economic development, Robertson-Slagle has a bachelor’s of Marketing from the University of Maryland’s Robert H. Smith School of Business, an associate’s degree in Business Administration and Management Development from the College of Southern Maryland and is a Master Economic Development Practitioner, certified by the University of Southern Mississippi. She is also a graduate of Leadership Maryland, Leadership Southern Maryland, and the National Association of Counties High Performance Leadership Academy. 

An event will be scheduled this summer to give residents an opportunity to get to know Robertson-Slagle as she dives into her new position.

Wingits, a specialty designer and manufacturer of bathroom accessories, fastening systems and Americans with Disabilities (ADA)-compliant products, held its ribbon cutting ceremony yesterday at a brand new facility in the Georgetown County Business Center.

The company started its hiring efforts after investing $7.4 million to its operations in Georgetown County. The initial hiring is for 40 jobs, 13% of which have been filled.

Being in operations for more than 20 years, WingIts has designed and manufactured bathroom accessories, fastening systems and ADA-compliant products that are made with 100% recyclable stainless steel designed for lifetime durability. These products are used for major hospital brands, healthcare, multi-family, senior living, government, and other commercial markets. The facility at 259 Technology Drive in Andrews serves as the company’s primary distribution and fulfilment center for North America.

“Confucius once said, ‘wherever you go, go with all your heart.’ Well, Wingits operates that way. We’re bringing our heart to Andrews. We’re bringing our heart to Georgetown County” said Tom Murphy, Wingits president. “We operate on a very basic principle and it’s that we’re all one team… You all are now part of our family. That’s how we are. We like to make everyone in our community part of the Wingits family,” stated Tom Murphy, President and CEO of WingIts.

The ribbon cutting event served as the official welcoming of WingIts to Georgetown County. Speakers at the event included: Georgetown County Council, SC Dept. of Commerce, and Murphy. Attendees were also able to tour the facility and have lunch.

“With the investment in the growth of our workforce, this industrial facility provides 40 new jobs with meaningful opportunities for our community. This shows the continuous commitment to sustainability in our local economy and support for our workforce,” said Georgetown County Council Chairman Louis Morant.

Operations at the facility have officially started. Individuals interested in joining WingIts team should email their resumes to hr@wingits.com . For those who are interested in industries in Georgetown County, please contact the Georgetown County Economic Development Department at (843) 545-3161 or visit seegeorgetown.com.