Daughters of Appland County claim timber loss from Hurricane cleanup by Phillips Company

In the heart of Appling County, a poignant discussion unfolded during a recent government meeting, as residents voiced their concerns over the aftermath of Hurricane Helene. Among them were the daughters of Ernest and Opalene, who shared a heartfelt account of the devastation that swept through their community on September 2024. While their family property was spared, many neighbors faced the loss of loved ones, homes, and cherished possessions.

The sisters expressed their frustration regarding a debris cleanup operation conducted by Phillips and Jordan, a company they accused of overstepping boundaries and damaging their land. They described how the crew, allegedly hired to clear debris, instead mutilated virgin timber that had been part of their family’s legacy since 1970. “They abused their power by trespassing onto the property,” one sister stated, emphasizing the lack of communication from the company, which left them feeling powerless and unheard.

The sisters recounted their attempts to reach out for answers, detailing numerous phone calls and messages that often went unanswered. They praised interim county manager Mike Deal and Robin Evans for their responsiveness but lamented the overall communication breakdown within the county. “It seems that no one cares,” one sister remarked, highlighting the frustration felt by many residents who were similarly affected.

As they spoke, it became clear that their plight was not an isolated incident. The sisters revealed that other property owners in Appling County had experienced similar issues, with trees being cut down unnecessarily and without proper notification. “We have pictures to prove that they were straight trees,” they asserted, underscoring the need for accountability and better oversight of cleanup operations.

The meeting served as a platform for the community to rally together, seeking resolution and transparency from the companies involved. The sisters urged local officials to address the broader implications of the cleanup efforts, emphasizing the need for improved communication systems to ensure that residents are informed and protected in future emergencies.

As the meeting concluded, the daughters of Ernest and Opalene left with a sense of determination, hopeful that their voices would lead to meaningful change in Appling County. Their story is a reminder of the resilience of communities in the face of adversity and the importance of standing up for one’s rights in the aftermath of disaster.