Bryan County residents show support for potential nickel refinery

RICHMOND HILL, Ga. (WTOC) - Bryan County leaders heard from supporters of a major nickel refinery during Tuesday night’s county commission meeting.

Westwin Elements says it is considering Richmond Hill as a potential site for a major nickel refinery. Few details were presented to county leaders during the meeting, and discussion of the project was not on the agenda.

Supporters used the public comment period to present the commission with a petition with more than 3,000 signatures in support of the project.

Supporters shared that the project will have a positive impact on the local economy and workforce by adding 800 jobs over seven years. Westwin elements says many of the jobs include a $90,000+ average annual salary and paid family benefits without the requirement of a college degree.

“I am very much in support of Westwin Elements,” said one Bryan County resident. “I think there is a future there for my son. I think there is a future there with the community. There are untold opportunities for internships and co-op partnerships.”

County leaders say they want more time to research the plan since it was not on the agenda Tuesday night.

Commissioners shared a few concerns like pending lawsuits and national security. The commission hopes to cover the topic more thoroughly at another meeting or town hall.