Covington and Social Circle propose high-density development amid community concerns

Concerns over public safety and community development dominated the recent Board of Commissioners meeting in Newton County, Georgia, held on April 1, 2025. Residents voiced strong objections to a proposed high-density housing project, the Tom Lowe Farms development, which aims to build 93 homes on small lots. Many attendees expressed frustration over a perceived lack of transparency, questioning how the project could have been approved two years ago without public input.

Mark Gardner, a local resident, raised critical questions about the development's approval process, highlighting that a recent informal meeting revealed widespread ignorance among residents about the project. "Not one person indicated that they had heard of it," Gardner stated, emphasizing the community's strong opposition to the plan. He urged the board to reconsider the variances being sought by the developers, which could compromise public safety.

In a related discussion, Elena Sanders, representing the People Party, called attention to the urgent need for tornado sirens on the West Side of Newton County, an area with a high population density. She pointed out that despite previous discussions in 2021, the issue remains unresolved, leaving many residents vulnerable during severe weather events. "Safety is supposed to be a priority of this board," Sanders asserted, urging immediate action.

The meeting also touched on the ongoing concerns regarding warehouse developments in the area, with residents expressing dissatisfaction over the number of empty warehouses and the potential for future developments to negatively impact the community.

As the meeting concluded, Commissioner Mason extended thoughts and prayers to families affected by a recent shooting incident at Denny Dobbs Park, underscoring the community's ongoing struggles with safety and development issues. The discussions reflect a growing demand for accountability and responsiveness from local government as residents seek to protect their neighborhoods and ensure their voices are heard.