In 2010, 450 people signed a petition to keep open
the road leading to Hotchkiss Landing on the Alapaha River,
according

the Lowndes County Commission minutes
for the 26 October 2010 Public Hearing.

Photograph by Brett Huntley.

Abandon a portion of Old State Road (CR 16), County
Manager, Joe Pritchard, presented the road closure for consideration,
adding that the engineering department had indicated twenty-five
vehicles per day on the road. Glenda Cofield, Mullins Lane, spoke
against the request, and presented

a petition submitted prior to the
work session with the unverified signatures of 450 area residents
included. Mrs. Cofield added that the boat ramp was used by many and
needed to be improved. Mrs. Cofield further stated that Department of
Natural Resources had guidelines by which the county could move forward
with repairs to the ramp. Commissioner Lee stated that it might be
an issue for the parks and recreation to explore. Mr. Steve Bays,
stated that he was new to the area and used the access to launch
his canoe. Commissioner Evans asked those in attendance that did
not want the road closed to stand (nearly half those in attendance
stood up). Commissioner Evans thanked those standing for their
participation. Mr. Phillip Connell, spoke for the closure as the property
owner. Mr. Connell stated that the public continues to use his property
to dump trash and as a place to trespass and drink alcohol. Mr. Connell
further stated that he had put up with it for years and was tired of
it, adding that he would continue to allow access to those who were
respectful of the area. Chairman Paulk thanked Mr. Connell for his
comments. Commissioner Evans recognized the presence of Mr. J.C. Riley
of Naylor. Mr. Riley stated that he understood the predicament of
Mr. Connell; however, he and 2 others use the access to enjoy the river
and that it is a part of the quality of life in Naylor that everyone
enjoys. Commissioner Lee asked Mr. Connell if his property was fenced to
keep out trespassers. Mr. Connell replied that additional fencing would
be his next option if the road remained open. Commissioner Evans made
a motion to deny the closure request, indicating that the road is still
used by the public, Vice Chairman Carter second. Motion carried. Chairman
Paulk asked those in attendance to assist Mr. Connell with policing the
area and encouraged them to report unlawful activity.

Yes, we have video, which will follow.

Update 5 February 2013: Here is the video.

This is the same stretch of county road to the same Alapaha River landing

that’s scheduled for another public hearing in two weeks.

-jsq