Vidalia zoning changes open former Fruit of the Loom property to more industries, mayor says

The Vidalia Board of Aldermen unanimously approved comprehensive zoning code changes during its recent Tuesday meeting, following recommendations from the Vidalia Planning and Zoning Commission. The updates aim to modernize the town's zoning regulations, specifically expanding permitted uses within both the agricultural and industrial districts.

Key among these changes is the amendment to the industrial district's zoning code, which now explicitly accommodates "contemporary industrial digital infrastructure" such as data centers, electrical generating facilities, battery energy storage systems, and advanced logistical facilities requiring substantial power, water, rail, or marine connectivity infrastructure. Vidalia Mayor Buz Craft stated that these changes were prompted by bank creditors of the former Fruit of the Loom property, which housed Vidalia Mills, who sought to attract diverse industries. Mayor Craft emphasized that while the zoning opens doors, any prospective industry would still require approval through a vetting process.

In addition to the zoning changes, the board also approved an ordinance regulating charitable gaming, including Bingo, Keno, and raffles, for approved non-profit entities within town limits. This decision came after a request from Jennifer Freeman of the Vidalia Women's Club, highlighting the community benefits derived from such fundraising activities.

Both the zoning changes and the charitable gaming ordinance were approved by a 4-0 vote, with Alderman Tommy Probst absent from the meeting.