Bryan County commissioners discuss nickel refinery after DABC ceases talks with Westwin Elements

BRYAN COUNTY, Ga. (WTOC) - Bryan County commissioners heard updates on a new investigation into environmental conditions at a former industrial site where Westwin Elements has proposed building a nickel refinery.

The meeting came after the Bryan County Development Authority severed ties with Westwin Elements earlier Tuesday. County Attorney Aaron Kappler outlined the legal and financial history tied to the project and confirmed an environmental investigation is officially underway.

Residents seek transparency on contamination claims

Residents pressed county leaders for transparency moving forward.

Some demanded a response following claims by Westwin Elements CEO KaLeigh Long that Bryan County leaders knew about contamination at the former Caesarstone site since last year.

“I think that’s in question, right?” said Carter Infinger, Bryan County Commission chairman.

“We’re gonna get to the bottom of it, that’s our job, to make sure we know exactly what’s out there.”

Debra Howard, a Richmond Hill resident with an environmental background, questioned how earlier testing was handled and whether it addressed the right risks.

“We were concerned that there had been no action taken at that information that was provided during that time, and we are today trying to figure out what’s what and who is responsible,” Howard said.

Investigation into site conditions commences

Kappler said the investigation has commenced and he has notified Caesarstone about Westwin’s allegations regarding the site.

“I quoted Ms. Long specifically in what she said, I sent that notice to Caesarstone,” Kappler said.

Kappler said he has not heard back from the site’s current owner and does not expect a response. He confirmed he has consulted with subject-matter experts.

No one spoke in support of the refinery during public comment.

The Southern Environmental Law Center issued a statement urging Georgia’s Environmental Protection Division to deny the project’s air permit, calling the application incomplete and unsuitable for expedited review.

County leaders said the environmental investigation will continue for the foreseeable future. Westwin Elements has not yet responded to requests for comment.