The Gordon County Board of Commissioners meeting on November 6, 2024, focused on significant community concerns regarding environmental health and the impact of commercial chicken farming in the area. Residents voiced their worries about the welfare of long-term citizens and the potential risks posed by new developments.

Lee Quinn, a local resident, urged the commissioners to reconsider the criteria for approving new commercial chicken farms. He emphasized the need to prioritize the health and well-being of existing community members over the interests of newcomers. Quinn expressed his concerns about the involvement of government agencies, such as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Corps of Engineers, in studying the wetlands and floodplains in the region. He called for a halt to any additional chicken farms, advocating for the support of local citizens to ensure they can enjoy a healthy living environment.

Another resident, Tina Boggers, highlighted issues of water contamination in the area, specifically mentioning the presence of E. coli in local streams. She described the environmental challenges posed by flooding and pollution, which she believes could affect the broader water supply in the county. Boggers shared her personal experience of having to pay for a costly water connection to ensure safe drinking water, underscoring the financial burden on residents.

The meeting also included a response from an applicant who presented a study from the University of Georgia, claiming no correlation between poultry farms and environmental or health hazards. This statement sparked further discussion among the commissioners and attendees about the validity of such claims in light of the residents' concerns.

As the meeting concluded, the commissioners were left to consider the implications of these discussions on future policies regarding commercial farming and environmental protection in Gordon County. The community's call for action reflects a growing awareness of the need for sustainable practices that prioritize public health and environmental integrity.