ATLANTA – State Representatives Viola Davis (D-Stone Mountain), Kim Schofield (D-Atlanta) and Sandra Scott (D-Rex) applaud McIntosh County voters following the January 20, 2026, special election in which voters supported the repeal of a 2023 zoning ordinance that would have allowed larger homes and increased development in the historic Hogg Hummock community.
“The outcome of the January 20 vote reflects the fundamental right of communities to shape their own future and protect their heritage,” said Rep. Davis. “The people of Sapelo Island stood firm in defense of their ancestral homes and cultural identity, and voters across McIntosh County stood with them. This was a hard-fought fight, and I am proud that democracy prevailed. We must continue to support policies that honor the history, contributions and dignity of the Gullah Geechee people.”
In September 2025, the Georgia Supreme Court ruled in favor of Sapelo Island’s Gullah Geechee community, allowing a referendum that let Sapelo Island residents vote on a zoning ordinance in the historic Hogg Hummock community. On January 20, the referendum passed by a margin of 1,584 votes in favor and 285 votes opposed. The referendum overturned a county ordinance that would have expanded allowable home sizes and opened the door to development that residents voiced could disrupt the community’s cultural, historical and economic foundations.
“This decisive vote shows what happens when citizens exercise their power and refuse to be silenced,” added Rep. Schofield. “The Gullah Geechee community on Sapelo Island has preserved a unique culture and way of life for generations. This victory is not just about zoning—it is about honoring community, continuity and cultural survival. I applaud the residents, advocates and voters who made their voices heard on January 20.”
Reps. Davis, Schofield and Scott praised voters for standing with Sapelo Island residents after more than two years of organizing, legal challenges and civic engagement. These representatives also recognize Reginald Hall, who worked alongside residents and advocates to bring this issue to the ballot.
“The January 20 election result is a testament to the strength of local voices and the importance of participatory democracy,” concluded Rep. Scott. “Sapelo Island’s Gullah Geechee community has faced real threats of displacement and erasure, and voters made a clear and resounding choice to defend cultural and historical integrity. I join my colleagues in recognizing the resilience of the residents and the community leaders who helped galvanize support for this cause.”
Sapelo Island, located off the coast of McIntosh County, Georgia, is home to the historic Hogg Hummock Gullah Geechee community, whose descendants trace their heritage to enslaved West Africans and have maintained these cultural traditions for generations.
*Editor’s note: these representatives include a photo.
Representative Viola Davis represents the citizens of District 87, which includes a portion of DeKalb County. She was elected to the House of Representatives in 2018 and currently serves on the Defense & Veterans Affairs, Health, Insurance, Natural Resources & Environment and Urban Affairs committees.
Representative Kim Schofield represents the citizens of District 63, which includes a portion of Fulton County. She was elected to the House of Representatives in 2017 and currently serves as the Secretary of the Urban Affairs Committee. She also serves on the Creative Arts & Entertainment, Health, Industry and Labor and Small Business Development committees.
Representative Sandra Scott represents the citizens of District 76, which includes a portion of Clayton County. She was elected to the House of Representatives in 2010 and currently serves on the Banks & Banking, Defense & Veterans Affairs, Human Relations & Aging, Insurance and Reapportionment and Redistricting committees.
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