Published September 13, 2005

Evacuation routes get a 2nd look

LUKE CONNELL, Staff Writer

Gov. Mark Sanford said Monday that state leaders are going over South Carolina's evacuation routes with a "fine-tooth comb" in the wake of Hurricane Katrina.

Speaking to the First Monday Club of Spartanburg, the governor said he's learned from the tragedy of the Gulf Coast, including evidence of a "philosophical" shift among Americans.

Sanford's words on the subject carried weight as Hurricane Ophelia, which was later downgraded to a tropical storm, barreled toward coastal Carolina.

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In advance of the storm, Sanford issued on Monday a voluntary evacuation of Horry and Georgetown counties, saying that islands off the coast as well as oceanfront and low-lying areas were in the path of potential danger.

Sanford said there's always pressure on decision-makers to act when severe storms approach, but he admitted there is a "heightened" sensitivity and awareness as a result of Katrina.

The governor said the catastrophe also points to

what he sees as a fundamental shift in American philosophy. People, he said, are expecting more from the federal government with regard to protection and services, and sometimes are foregoing personal responsibility.

Personal safety starts with individuals, then the local government and later the state and federal government, Sanford said. Many people, he said, chose not to leave their homes.

"I think there are some alarming national trends in terms of the role of the federal government," Sanford told the crowd that was gathered at Wade's Restaurant.

As for South Carolina's reaction to a potential natural disaster, several state leaders at Monday's lunch said memories and lessons of Hurricane Hugo are still fresh for many.

House Speaker Pro Tem Doug Smith, R-Spartanburg, said people must have trust in elected and appointed leaders.

"I think we've learned a lot of lessons in South Carolina," Smith said after Sanford's remarks.

State Sen. Jim Ritchie, R-Spartanburg, said he's confident that South Carolina has better communication among its leaders, allowing them to make good decisions.

Luke Connell can be reached at 562-7219 or luke.connell@shj.com.