Hogansville Council Hears From Public

By TODD PIKE
The December 2 Hogansville City Council meeting began with four citizen appearances, each concerning the much discussed proposed data center. First to speak was Ila Burdette of Maple Drive, whose poignant statement spoke volumes about what has been happening in the city: “It doesn’t feel like Hogansville to me, and I bet it doesn’t to some of you either. It surprised me when I sat back and thought about it, and it sort of broke my heart, to tell you the truth. I’ve been really unhappy to realize, all of a sudden, that this data center, whatever else it may or may not do, is already tearing the trust between our town officials and our townspeople apart. I’ve not seen it like this before and I hope it doesn’t stay this way.”
Paula Darden of East Main Street said that “no matter how much money rich people throw at us, Hogansville doesn’t want a data center.” She also said the center would adversely affect nearby residents, farm animals and wildlife. Cyndie Hutchings of LaGrange said she relocated from Fayetteville because of the huge data center in that city. She urged city officials to do much more research before allowing one into Hogansville and to place the citizens’ well-being over money. Last to speak was Chance Williams who said it seems like there is a lot of red tape that needs to be cut through. He believes the process has been hidden and swept under the rug. He also wants the city to focus more on small businesses. Anyone wishing to make your opinion known about the data center can contact the city at feedback@cityofhogansville.org.
In new business, a preliminary plat approval for Jones Crossing Phase III, which involves an additional 106 lots attached to Phases I and II off of East Main Street, was tabled to a future meeting. The city wants to contact the developer and find out their plans for amenities in the neighborhood before approving the plat. Assistant Police Chief James Vincent then said the force has a 2021 Chevy Traverse that has exceeded its’ years and mileage lifetime for the city, which another local agency wants to purchase. The HPD has recently obtained three new vehicles and has no need for the Traverse. The council voted to approve the sale of the surplus vehicle to the local agency. 
In the City Manager’s Report, Lisa Kelly said between 75 and 100 Christmas trees were donated to the city which the police department had distributed to local families. She said Toys For Tots boxes were located at city hall, the Hogansville Police Department, Ingles and the Fire Department and that all donated items go to local children through the Empty Stocking Fund and the Hogansville Pilot Club. She said the Community Development Block Grant 2024 will go to bid soon for storm drains in the village, especially near Green , International, Frederick and Lawrence Streets. This is a priority since portions of these streets tend to flood in rainy weather. Sewer repairs on Carden and Brazell Streets will also be made. Hogansville will use SPLOST funds to match their part of the expenses for the upgrades.
Assistant Chief Vincent said the HPD, as well as all local public service agencies, will be at Wal Mart in LaGrange the next two weekends from 10am to 2pm accepting toys and money donations for Toys For Tots. The city’s next blood drive will be December 6 from 1-5pm at the City Annex.