ATLANTA — State Representative Jeff Jones (R-Brunswick) recently requested that the Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ Shore Protection Committee reconsider its recent decision to allow construction of a new groin at the south end of Sea Island due to “a significant threat to wildlife and private property on St. Simons Island.”
Rep. Jones letter to Shore Protection Committee, dated January 11, 2016, states:
“I have received many letters and phone calls regarding your December 11, 2015 decision to grant Sea Island Acquisition LLC’s Shore Protection Act permit request for the construction of a new groin at the south end of Sea Island. In addition to the absence of one of your members at the meeting, I understand that solid scientific evidence was presented that clearly reveals that a new groin would pose a significant threat to wildlife and private property on St. Simons Island should the groin construction be allowed. I have also studied information about the negative impact of its construction such that I have grave concerns about construction of this groin; the decision clearly warrants serious reconsideration.
“Due to the likely long-term negative impact of the decision, and because of circumstances I have mentioned, I believe strongly that the Shore Protection Committee should reconvene and be allowed to reconsider its decision. The precedent this new groin approval sets for the entire coast, and due to the seriousness of the potential impact of the new groin, I believe it would be prudent to ensure that all committee members have the chance to review and weigh in on the permit application.
“It is my hope you will take my request, and the overwhelming concern expressed by St. Simons Island residents, under consideration and approve a request for reconsideration at your next scheduled meeting.”
Representative Jeff Jones represents the citizens of District 167, which includes portions of Glynn, Long, and McIntosh counties. He was first elected into the House of Representatives in 2014, and currently serves on the Interstate Cooperation, Motor Vehicles, and Natural Resources and Environment committees.
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