City of Newberry utility crews repair lines following Hurricane Helene. Photo: City of Newberry.
On September 26, Hurricane Helene, at one point a Category 4 storm, made landfall on the Gulf Coast of Florida. It tore a path deep inland through Georgia, South and North Carolina and beyond, becoming one of the most destructive and deadly hurricanes to hit the United States in decades.
In the aftermath of Helene, we felt it was appropriate in this issue of Uptown to highlight the extraordinary efforts and long hours of performing the paramount responsibility of local government — providing for the public’s safety.
The geographic extent of destruction and challenges that your cities have faced in the aftermath of this storm have been unprecedented. However, the resilience, dedication and long hours demonstrated by the elected officials and staff have been truly inspiring. Your leadership has played an essential role in ensuring that recovery efforts are coordinated, safe and as swift as possible.
The SC National Guard delivers 9,300 meals, ready-to-eat, or MREs, and bottles of water to the
Aiken Department of Public Safety. Photo: City of Aiken.
While the road to full recovery may still be long, it is clear that the steps you’ve taken thus far have improved lives and, in many cases, saved them. During these times, many are reminded that municipalities are the closest line of defense to the public for the devastation that mankind or nature can leave behind.
The Municipal Association of South Carolina works every day to support all 271 municipalities as you work to fulfill your important mission. Today, our thoughts and prayers are with each of the cities affected by Helene and the residents you serve. We are proud of the work that you have done and will do as you emerge from this disaster even stronger.
The Greenwood Commissioners of Public Works receives assistance from the City of Troy,
Alabama, Utilities Department to restore power. Troy was among many communities to provide
assistance to the Helene-affected parts of South Carolina, and worked in the state for 13 days.
Greenwood CPW is a member of both the SC Association of Municipal Power Systems and the
American Public Power Association. Photo: City of Troy, Alabama.
As you continue to rebuild, lean on the partnerships available to you through federal, state and local resources to accelerate those efforts. If the Municipal Association can assist in any way, please let us know.
Thank you again for your steadfast leadership during this challenging time.
B. Todd Glover
Executive Director,
Municipal Association of SC