During a recent meeting of the Dufusky Island Council, residents voiced urgent concerns regarding the performance of the current ferry service operated by Lowcountry. Council Chair Cade Yarborough opened the discussion by calling for the cancellation of the existing contract, citing ongoing issues with the ferry's reliability and safety, particularly for individuals with disabilities. He highlighted that the ferry has repeatedly broken down and does not meet essential contract requirements, including safety standards and climate control.

Yarborough presented a petition with over 325 signatures from island residents advocating for the contract's termination and a new bidding process for a more reliable ferry service. He emphasized the community's need for a safe and functional transportation option, urging council members to prioritize the well-being of Dufusky Island residents over the interests of the ferry operator.

Freddie Grant Jr., a local resident, shared personal experiences of the dangers associated with the current ferry, recounting incidents where individuals nearly fell into the water. He stressed that the community is not asking for luxury but rather a safe means of transportation to access essential services.

Eddie Pennybaker, a licensed electrician and long-time resident, echoed these sentiments, criticizing the county's apparent reluctance to address the ferry operator's noncompliance with contract terms. He urged the council to act courageously in favor of the community's health and safety, referencing the potential for litigation from disability rights groups if the issues remain unresolved.

Other residents, including Yvonne Wilson and Pam Cobb, reinforced the call for a new ferry service, detailing the hardships faced by those reliant on the ferry for medical appointments and daily necessities. They described the uncomfortable and unsafe conditions aboard the current vessel, which lacks adequate heating and air conditioning.

The meeting underscored a growing frustration among Dufusky Island residents regarding their transportation options and the perceived neglect from the ferry operator. As the council deliberates on the future of the ferry contract, the voices of the community remain clear: they demand a safe, reliable, and accessible means of transportation to and from their island home.