Letter to the editor: Improvement requires inclusion, not assumption

I read Mr. Larry McLeod's recent letter with interest. His desire to improve Sumter is commendable, and we share common ground in wanting a better, cleaner city. However, I must respectfully address one specific point regarding the Sumter SWRTA transit system.

As a disabled veteran SWRTA is my only reliable form of transportation. The SWRTA provides critical access to medical appointments, groceries, employment, and community activities for those of us with limited mobility. The Executive Director and her dedicated team go above and beyond to meet the needs of our most vulnerable neighbors. Criticizing the size of the buses without understanding their service mandate or having access to ridership data risks undermining the dignity of those who depend on these services. Efficiency should not come at the cost of equity.

I do agree strongly with Mr. McLeod's call for action on litter and community cleanliness. The level of trash in our ditches and roadways is disheartening. One possible solution: activate community service sentencing more meaningfully by requiring participants to clean public spaces each weekend. Let us turn accountability into opportunity for public good.

As for the Penny for Progress projects, we should speak with those who passed the measure. Enforcement of fines for removing street signs must be both legal and practical to work. And on the issue of recycling, I believe there is already a private plastic recycling facility located off Jefferson Road. Perhaps greater public awareness is what is needed most.

Let us move the conversation forward-constructively, inclusively, and with data-driven solutions. Sumter deserves nothing less.

Respectfully, GOD Bless the USA, #A United Sumter

REGINALD EVANS

Sumter