Bryan County Board Approves $250K for Well Mitigation Fund, Boosting Total to $1 Million

Last week, the Development Authority of Bryan County Board of Directors approved a $250,000 contribution to the Well Mitigation Fund. This initiative aims to address impacts on existing Floridan aquifer wells within a five-mile radius of planned well sites. Earlier this summer, the Development Authority of Bulloch County and the Savannah Harbor-Interstate 16 Corridor Joint Development Authority (Savannah JDA) each approved $250,000 contributions to the fund. Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America (HMGMA) also donated $250,000, bringing the total fund amount to $1 million.

The Well Mitigation Fund was established to provide resources for remediation if residents experience well issues due to nearby developments. Bryan County will oversee the fund on behalf of both counties and will hire a consultant to develop well-mitigation plans, including policies, eligibility guidelines, processes, and public information documents. The mitigation policy and related processes are expected to be finalized by the end of the year.

Sen. Billy Hickman (R–Statesboro) highlighted the importance of collaboration in addressing community concerns, stating, “I’m proud to see this significant step forward for the residents of Bryan and Bulloch counties. Ensuring that our communities are protected as we continue to grow and develop is a top priority. This fund is a great example of how local authorities, business partners like Hyundai, and community leaders can come together to address challenges and support our citizens. I’m grateful to all four organizations for their commitment to protecting our valuable water resources.”

Savannah JDA Chairman Carter Infinger thanked Sen. Hickman for his involvement, saying, “I would like to personally thank State Senator Billy Hickman for assisting with bringing this fund together.”