The Horry County Council in South Carolina has approved the proposed Asha Vista Behavioral Institute after months of opposition from nearby residents, NBC affiliate WMBF reported Feb. 3.
The council voted 8-4 during its Feb. 3 meeting to allow Asha Vista Behavioral Institute to renovate and repurpose a former assisted living facility, overturning a denial by the county zoning board.
The approval followed a settlement agreement tied to an appeal of the zoning board decision, according to the report. Under the agreement, Asha Vista is required to implement additional safety measures — including a security guard on site at all times, 24/7 video surveillance and construction of a 7-foot perimeter wall — which goes beyond its original proposal.
The proposal drew opposition during the meeting’s public comment segment, with residents raising concerns about changed zoning and the facility’s “prison-like” atmosphere.
Asha Vista said construction will begin in March, with eight to 10 months of renovation planned. The 78-bed mental health facility is expected to open in Murrells Inlet by early 2027.
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