Letter: Public services a community responsibility

Your editorial on Sunday, July 3, “Help get Hilton Head shame behind us,” sketches historical events in efforts to get water and sewerage to all households on Hilton Head Island.

Almost 50 years ago, a report made to the public indicated some serious health conditions in large part due to water and sewage problems. Exactly 20 years ago, I was part of a panel of an ethics seminar that discussed the topic: “What Is the Responsibility of the Hilton Head Community To Provide Public Services To All Its Citizens?”

Yet, today it is estimated that 1,000 Hilton Head homes still lack sewer connections, mostly in the Ward 1 area of land owned by African-Americans. Those living in the area report seeing puddles bubbling up and an unpleasant smell. We should be ashamed that we as a world-class residential and resort community still tolerate this condition.

It seems only fair that the community take full responsibility for correcting this condition and give it high priority with a completion date.

Under the leadership of Town Council, we must insist as a community that we meet our moral responsibility to see that all our fellow citizens have adequate water and sewage services. So many promises of past years have not been kept.

The Community Foundation of the Lowcountry has made a commitment to support the cause. Contact them to find out how you can help.

This story was originally published July 7, 2016 at 10:59 PM with the headline "Letter: Public services a community responsibility."