The company that wants to build a nickel refinery in Bryan County has threatened legal action against the county commission chairman for allegedly spreading negative views of the project, as it seeks public support and faces skeptical environmentalists.
Westwin Elements accused Carter Infinger of defamation due to his discussions with residents about the Oklahoma company’s legal, financial and safety record.
The company is holding a town hall Monday at Richmond Hill City Center — the first public meeting about the proposed refinery after weeks of rumors have sparked public backlash.
Documents obtained by The Current GA confirm that the project has been the subject of confidential discussions with the state and the Bryan County Development Authority. A draft resolution shows that the company will rely on up to $230 million in bonds sold through the development authority to build the refinery at Belfast Commerce Park, and would repay investors later through revenue. Such an arrangement must ultimately be approved by the county commissioners…