Hogansville City Council Recognizes Youth Football

By TODD PIKE
The Hogansville City Council opened their December 15 meeting by recognizing two local little league football teams. The 9 and 10 year old Hogansville Greenwave, who went undefeated and won the 2025 Textile Bowl, and the 8 and under Hogansville Cavaliers, who won the Showdown Bowl, were recognized, as were their coaches, cheerleaders and cheer coaches. Mayor Jake Ayers congratulated the players and cheerleaders for their hard work and thanked the coaches for all the time they spend with the kids. The coaches also thanked the parents for their willingness to get their kids to practice and support their teams. Each player and cheerleader was given a certificate from the city in recognition of their outstanding seasons.
A citizen appearance by Wanda Lowe about the proposed data center was next on the agenda. She stated her concerns about the rapid growth of technology, which may become obsolete in a few years, and what the effects may be on those living close to a data center. She mentioned how the local textile mill helped produce a product that was eventually used in America’s moon landing, but how many of those mill workers later became ill with asbestosis due to what the mill produced. She asked what would Hogansville be left with after a data center moved into this area? Who would benefit and who would pay the price? Lowe said she wants Hogansville to maintain her charm and quaintness and be a holdout from allowing data centers to come into our area. She implored the council to pray for what is best for Hogansville and not sell out.
In new business, the council was prepared to vote on approval of the Jones Crossing Phase III development, which was discussed in an hour long work session before the council meeting. They decide to table a decision until a meeting in January after they discuss with developers what amenities (such as playgrounds, walking trails or green areas) they plan to add to the neighborhood.
Assistant City Manager Oasis Nichols, speaking for absent City Manager Lisa Kelly, thanked citizens for their patience as work crews continue installation of water valves in several areas around the city. More temporary water shutoffs are planned as work on the lines continue. 
Police Chief Jeffrey Sheppard mentioned that there are still Toys For Tots boxes at the Hogansville Police Department, City Hall and Fire Department. All toys collected by Toys for Tots in Troup County will go to local children. He reported that for the 15th straight year, HPD officers participated in Wal Mart’s Wreaths Across America event, as they escorted Wal Mart semis which were transporting wreaths to be placed on the graves of fallen service members in military cemeteries across the country. Hogansville’s final blood drive of 2025 will be on Friday, December 26 from 1-5pm at the City Annex Building. There will also be a drawing for five donated $100 gift cards at the drive. 
The council members thanked everyone who made the December 6 Christmas parade a big success. They also cautioned drivers to watch for children who will be out of school for the holidays.