Story by Emma Griffin, correspondent

Rising water levels in the Ogeechee River were addressed at Tuesday's City Council meeting as Mayor Carpenter took the time to read out a statement, stating that the Ogeechee was predicted to crest on Wednesday, November 13th. 

While this could potentially flood some low lying areas and could affect school and work commutes, no buildings or homes are expected to flood, said Carpenter. 

Citing information from the Southeast River Forecast Center, Carpenter said flooding would peak during the next 12 to 24 hours, with the anticipated water level just over 7.4 or 7.5 inches. 

Maps detailing which areas could experience flooding are posted on the city’s social media and websites. 

Carpenter reiterated that street flooding was likely, urging residents to be cautious with low lying vehicles and warning them not to drive through flooded areas. He reassured those in attendance that the city was working with Bryan County Emergency Management and its public works crew to stage water pumps in strategic areas.

“There's nothing yet to pump, but we are ready to go when they are,” said Carpenter.

PUDs and fencing concerns

The petition by Josh Galbreath to revise the Richmond Hill PUD from single-family residential zoning to commercial within the Timber Trail area, which was raised at last month’s council meeting, was tabled until the December 3rd meeting. 

However, the same concerned citizen that came forward during October’s meeting, Doug Simpson, once again presented comments voicing his disapproval of the petition. 

“I'm here again because I care. I care about the city, and I care about my neighborhood, and I care about my neighbors,” Simpson said to council members. 

He said he draws issue with more warehouses in the area, saying that there are “people walking around the neighborhoods, little kids, scooters…We don't need commercial establishments.” 

Simpson is concerned about trees being cut down and stormwater problems and urged the council to deny the requested rezoning at the upcoming hearing.

The next public speaker, Lee Purdue, approached the council about his neighborhood replacing fences following damage by Hurricane Helene.

“Some of my neighbors went to replace their fences, and they were told they would have to back the fences up 10 feet into their property,” Perdue said. 

Purdue says he was told by the city that they could not build on the current easements on their properties, but he wanted to request if they would allow fences since they are soft builds.

Carpenter then tasked Brian Crooks, the Planning and Zoning Director, to “get to the bottom of this and find the best resolution for our residents in Mulberry.”

Recognitions 

At the very beginning of Tuesday’s meeting, Carpenter honored Beth Odom, a local resident and retired teacher, as part of a statewide proclamation recognizing Retired Educators Day. (Nov. 3).

And Wendy Bolton, President of Richmond Hill’s Bark Park, was surprised with an award naming her a “Friend of the City” for her contributions to the local dog park which recently celebrated its tenth anniversary on Thursday, November 7. 

Finally, Bill and Jo Valentine were announced as the Grand Marshals of the 28th annual Christmas Parade. Bill Valentine began working as hatchery manager for the Richmond Hill Fish Hatchery in 1974 before retiring in 2023. Jo Valentine worked for 40 years as a hair stylist at the Hair Station and was a parent volunteer in the Bryan County School System. Mr. Valentine now serves at the Eleos Food Pantry, and Mrs. Valentine serves on the Mayor’s Advisory Council. 

Both will represent Richmond Hill by leading the parade on December 7th. 

Carpenter closed the meeting by reminding attendees about the route change for the city’s Christmas Parade, which will now begin at the recreational fields on Timber Trail. 

“We had to expand it because a lot of people are coming out, so we hope to see you all there as well,” Carpenter said. 

Emma Griffin is a freelance correspondent with the Bryan County News. 

For more information regarding the Ogeechee River, please follow the City of Richmond Hill’s Facebook page.