ATLANTA (August 20, 2024) – Last week, the Development Authority of Bryan County Board of Directors approved $250,000 toward the Well Mitigation Fund, an initiative to address any impacts to 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. These contributions and Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America’s (HMGMA) $250,000 donation bring the total fund to $1 million.

The Well Mitigation Fund was created to ensure ample resources are available for remediation should residents experience issues with their wells due to nearby developments. Bryan County will manage the fund on behalf of both counties and will hire a consultant experienced in developing well-mitigation plans to prepare 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) emphasized 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 expressed his appreciation for Sen. Hickman’s involvement, stating, “I would like to personally thank State Senator Billy Hickman for assisting with bringing this fund together.”

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Sen. Billy Hickman serves as Chairman of the Senate Committee on Higher Education. He represents the 4th Senate District, which includes Bulloch, Candler, Effingham, Evans, and a small portion of Chatham County. He may be reached at 404.463.1371 or via email at billy.hickman@senate.ga.gov