Murray County Public Meeting on Proposed Bioenergy Facility
Murray County Commissioner Noah Bishop is calling a public meeting tonight at 6 p.m. at the Murray County Recreation Department to discuss Vanguard Renewables’ proposed food and agricultural waste processing facility. The facility is planned for the west side of Highway 411 near Oakman, just across the Gordon-Murray county line. The project has drawn concern from local residents, who cite potential pollution, environmental risks, and the possibility of reduced property values. U.S. Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene has confirmed she will attend the meeting, highlighting the growing attention to the project. Commissioner Bishop said the meeting is intended to provide residents with information about the facility and an opportunity to share their opinions.
Gordon County Approves Moratorium on Anaerobic Digestion Facilities
The Gordon County Board of Commissioners voted Tuesday night to approve a six-month moratorium on permitting or zoning actions involving anaerobic digestion facilities—industrial operations similar to the bioenergy plant proposed in neighboring Murray County. County Attorney Chris Jackson explained that while these facilities generate renewable energy, they may also pose potential impacts to surrounding residential areas. The temporary moratorium will give county staff time to research the technology, assess potential effects, and determine whether updates to local ordinances or regulations are needed. The moratorium takes effect immediately.