Richmond Hill Daily Brief: Refinery Petition and Weekend Events

Nickel refinery opposition gains momentum

Within the last two days, a local resident launched an online petition titled “No nickel refinery in Richmond Hill, GA!” It was created on February 6 and had more than 40 verified signatures toward an initial goal of 50 by Saturday night. The petition raises health, environmental, and economic concerns, warning about air, water, and soil pollution and possible impacts on tourism, fishing, and property values.

Petition organizers are urging city and state leaders, including the new mayor and other decision makers, to reject the proposed nickel refinery project on Richmond Hill’s industrial corridor. The effort comes on the heels of recent reporting and official statements that have spotlighted questions about waste handling, worker safety, and potential contamination tied to the project, adding pressure on local leaders as they weigh next steps.

Weekend brings races, cars, and books

Saturday was busy around town. Runners gathered at Richmond Hill High School’s new campus for the second annual Love on the Run 5K and 10K, a community race that raises money for the school’s HOSA chapter and helps send more than 90 students to state competitions in Atlanta. (running.life)

At Fort McAllister State Park, the 8th Annual Rides on the River car show returned, inviting owners of classic, custom, and specialty vehicles to line the riverfront while families browsed the rows, enjoyed local history, and watched scheduled musket demonstrations. Pre-registered car owners received free admission, while other visitors paid a small entry fee to support the park.

Closer to the heart of town, the Friends of the Library held a used-book sale at the Richmond Hill Library, giving neighbors a budget-friendly way to restock their shelves while supporting programs at the branch.

Looking ahead this week

Next up on the community calendar, A Night to Shine is scheduled for Friday, February 13, at First Baptist Church of Richmond Hill. The prom-style evening celebrates people with special needs and brings together volunteers from across the area to provide a red-carpet experience.

Bryan County Schools are also preparing for a Recruitment Expo on February 17 at Richmond Hill High School. District leaders plan to highlight openings for the 2026–27 school year, from classroom roles to support staff, as enrollment continues to grow on the south end of the county.

Residents can find more information on these and other activities by checking local event calendars before heading out.

Sources

• https://www.change.org/p/no-nickel-refinery-in-richmond-hill-ga
• https://nationaltoday.com/us/ga/savannah/news/2026/02/05/westwin-elements-nickel-refinery-faces-waste-and-safety-concerns
• https://richmondhill-ga.gov/m/NewsFlash
• https://running.life/en/event/love-on-the-run-richmond-hill
• https://carcruisefinder.com/car-show/8th-annual-rides-on-the-river
• https://livingrichmondhillga.com/events-calendar
• https://www.visitrichmondhill.com/Whats-Happening.php