Effingham Board Approves Maintenance Facility Within Broad Property Following Public Hearing

Effingham County's Planning Board made significant strides towards enhancing local infrastructure during their meeting on August 12, 2025. The board approved plans for a new maintenance facility that will serve the county's fleet of vehicles, including lawnmowers and mini excavators, but notably excluding buses. This facility will be located on a portion of the Broad property, which required a rezoning to accommodate the new use, aligning it with the industrial zoning already present in the area.

The decision comes after the county sold its previous maintenance facility in 2021 and has since been operating out of a much smaller space. The new facility is expected to improve operational efficiency and support the growing needs of the county's maintenance operations.

During the meeting, board members and community members raised questions about the buffer zone between the new facility and adjacent residential properties. County engineer Jonathan Home confirmed that there will be approximately 150 feet of buffer space, which will include existing mature trees and natural undergrowth, providing a visual and environmental barrier between the maintenance operations and nearby homes.

The board's discussions highlighted the importance of maintaining community standards while accommodating necessary infrastructure improvements. With no opposition voiced during the public hearing, the board is optimistic about the positive impact this facility will have on local services and the community's overall growth. As the project moves forward, residents can expect enhanced maintenance capabilities that will ultimately benefit the county's public services.