ACCOMPLISHMENTS - Water Tower 09/27/2025

Earlier this year (approximately late May 2025), I observed the Red Warning light on our very tall water tower was not flashing to warn air traffic of its presence. The maintenance of this water tower is the responsibility of Brunswick County Public Utilities (BCPU). I contacted BCPU to inform them of the issue. They acknowledged the problem and thanked me for bringing it to their attention.

Approximately an hour later, BCPU contacted me again, stating that the Town of Sunset Beach was responsible for the replacement of the warning light. I clarified that Sunset Beach's only association with the tower is the utilization of its water; the structure itself is under BCPU jurisdiction. The representative took the information again and assured me they would address the repair.

A month passed without any resolution. I contacted BCPU again and reiterated that Sunset Beach possesses over 10 million dollars in rolling assets and fixed structures. Since the town is directly in the flight path of the Odell Williamson Municipal Airport (Ocean Isle Beach, NC), there was a very real possibility that an aircraft or helicopter could collide with the tower upon descent, resulting in a crash or creating a debris field from the impact. That debris could damage the town's emergency communication system and or leave it severely compromised. The BCPU representative assured me once again they would handle it.

Two weeks later, BCPU contacted me to inform me that a third-party vendor would rectify the issue. However, another two weeks passed without any resolution. It was time to escalate my concern. My next call was to the Brunswick County Manager. I explained the situation as detailed above. He was surprised by my account and promised to investigate and resolve the matter. By August 15, 2025, the Red Warning flashing light had finally been repaired.

These experiences illustrate a narrative - I care about the town of Sunset Beach and the well-being of its citizens. I'm grateful to live here and call Sunset Beach HOME.

Sean