Opinion: Home Rule the Best Answer for Homeland Park's Future

By Walter Lanier

Homeland Park Water Commissioner/President of the Homeland Park Community Watch

Homeland Park, the small but vibrant community nestled in Anderson County, South Carolina, has been my beloved home for over four decades. Born in 1981, I am a proud resident of this tight-knit neighborhood, and it has played a pivotal role in shaping the person I am today, instilling in me cherished memories and invaluable values.

However, like many communities, Homeland Park has not been immune to the challenges of economic depression, which have led to increased levels of crime and disillusionment among its residents.

Embracing Diversity: A Melting Pot of Cultures

Homeland Park stands as a testament to the beauty of diversity. Within its borders, an array of ethnicities come together, creating a tapestry of cultures that enriches our community. Here, inclusivity and acceptance are cherished principles, fostering a harmonious environment for all. Homeland Park is a place where neighbors become friends and support one another, united by a shared commitment to building a vibrant community.

Our community's strength lies not only in its diversity but also in its deep-rooted sense of togetherness. Homeland Park residents are known for their friendly and welcoming nature, always ready to extend a helping hand. Growing up in this supportive environment, I discovered a profound sense of belonging, knowing I could rely on my neighbors and friends whenever I needed assistance. Moreover, our schools, although outdated, provide exceptional education thanks to dedicated teachers and staff who work tirelessly to ensure our growth and success.

Homeland Park Elementary School holds a special place in my heart as a testament to the commitment to education within our community.

Homeland Park's allure extends beyond its people. Surrounded by natural beauty, we embraced the outdoors as our playground. While lacking sufficient amenities such as parks and recreation centers within our immediate boundaries, we cherished neighboring parks and the open yards of our generous neighbors. Growing up in Homeland Park presented its fair share of challenges, but our resilience and creativity allowed us to make the most of our surroundings.

From Prosperity to Neglect

Economic struggles and increased crime unfortunately have posed challenges. The vibrant Homeland Park I grew up in has faced considerable neglect and disinvestment in recent years, leading to economic depression and an increase in crime within our community. The consequences of disinvestment and underrepresentation from local officials have burdened our community, leaving many residents feeling disillusioned and vulnerable. High unemployment rates, limited job opportunities, and a lack of essential resources have contributed to the sense of frustration and desperation among some members of our community.

Such challenges can often lead to increased crime rates as individuals may resort to illegal activities due to limited options or a sense of hopelessness. Although many continue to place the blame for our demise on the closing of the old mills. While that played a role, what often is not accounted for is the numerous jobs First Quality, Michelin, and others now offer.

A Call for Change: Advocating "Home Rule" and Community Empowerment

Despite the challenges we face, Homeland Park residents remain resilient and united in our fight for community revitalization.

Considering the economic struggles and increased crime, it is essential that together we adopt a comprehensive approach to revitalizing Homeland Park. This approach entails not only addressing the immediate safety concerns through effective law enforcement but also tackling the root causes of crime by focusing on economic development, job creation, and access to education and resources.

By implementing these multifaceted strategies, we can foster a positive environment that uplifts our community and reduces crime in the long run. While we remain open to the prospect of development, it is crucial to carefully manage the pace and nature of growth in Homeland Park.

Some members of our community express concerns that the current focus on residential development may strain our already burdened infrastructure. We must ensure that any development plans align with comprehensive strategies to address our infrastructure needs. Homeland Park Fire Department, with its high call volume, requires adequate support and resources. Our roads are in dire need of repair, and timely response times from our police and emergency services are imperative.

Furthermore, we must address the capacity issues in our sewer systems to accommodate future growth. Overcrowded schools also demand attention to ensure a quality education for our youth. Considering these concerns, many citizens and I strongly advocate for what we call "Home Rule." Incorporating Homeland Park into its own township would grant us the autonomy and decision-making power to address the unique challenges we face.

By regaining local control, we can actively participate in shaping the future of our community, ensuring that infrastructure development aligns with our needs and concerns. "Home Rule" empowers us to enact policies and initiatives that promote economic growth, enhance public safety, and improve the overall well-being of our residents. However, we acknowledge that the issue of increased crime requires a comprehensive approach beyond "Home Rule" and infrastructure development. It demands a concerted effort to address underlying social and economic factors. We must invest in programs that provide job training and employment opportunities, support local businesses, and strengthen community engagement. By fostering a sense of hope, empowerment, and pride in Homeland Park, we can create an environment where residents feel motivated to contribute positively to our community's growth and security.

We treasure the memories of its prosperous past and remain determined to overcome the challenges we face today. By advocating for "Home Rule," pursuing strategic infrastructure development, and implementing comprehensive solutions to address crime and economic struggles, we can restore Homeland Park to its former glory—a thriving, economically strong community where residents can live, work, and prosper. As President of the Homeland Park Community Watch nonprofit, I stand alongside my fellow residents, united in our resolve to transform Homeland Park into a place of opportunity, safety, and pride.

Let us embrace our diversity, leverage our collective strength, and work hand in hand to revitalize our community. Together, we can reclaim Homeland Park's potential and build a brighter future for ourselves and generations to come.