(Columbus) Ledger-Enquirer week in review

A ‘wave’ of data center ordinances sweep through Georgia counties

Eight Georgia counties and cities have passed moratoriums since March, temporarily halting data center development amid concerns over massive water and energy consumption. Twenty-six data centers are currently under construction within 60 miles of Atlanta, with 52 more planned. Counties like Pike, Lamar, Troup, and Clayton implemented September moratoriums to update zoning codes that lack specific data center regulations. Some jurisdictions created restrictive ordinances — Lumpkin and Forsyth counties established rules that may effectively eliminate data centers, while others like Bartow County welcome them with buffer zones and noise restrictions. The facilities promise millions in tax revenue and high-paying jobs, but local officials struggle to balance economic benefits with community concerns about infrastructure impacts.

Reported by Kala Hunter, published Oct. 21

$8 million in stipends will pay more money to most Muscogee school employees

The Muscogee County School District board unanimously approved one-time retention stipends totaling approximately $8 million. Teachers eligible for benefits will receive $2,000, while those not eligible get $1,000. All other benefit-eligible employees receive $1,000, and non-benefit eligible staff get $500. Monthly-paid employees must work through Nov. 1 to receive stipends Nov. 30, while semi-monthly workers need to be active through Nov. 9 for Dec. 15 payment. The funding comes from the district’s general fund reserves. Board members emphasized the importance of all employees while noting plans for a compensation study to ensure competitive wages across all positions.

Reported by Mark Rice, published Oct. 20

New restaurant opens in spot of closed local favorite

Molcajete Mexican Restaurant has opened in Harris County’s Fortson community nearly a year after owners signed the lease, said co-owner Zaira Orejel. She expected a few months to launch, but permits and inspections stretched the timeline to almost a year. The restaurant sits at 5237 Route 219 in the former Pat’s Backwaters cabin-style building, which closed two years ago. Orejel said the team kept the cozy wood interior and added colorful decor and a mural she painted. Popular dishes include fajitas, chimichangas and quesadillas made fresh daily, she said. Orejel hopes her husband can join full-time if their liquor license is approved, noting busy nights even without alcohol.

Reported by Jordyn Paul-Slater, published Oct. 17

Stolen car report leads to arrest at Columbus home

A Muscogee County Sheriff’s Office patrol spotted three to four people around what deputies later confirmed was a stolen vehicle, prompting several to flee into a house in the 3700 block of 14th Avenue, Sheriff Greg Countryman said. More than a dozen law enforcement vehicles responded as deputies with long guns surrounded the home. Individuals who exited told deputies another person remained inside and provided a name, Countryman said. A records check showed several outstanding felony warrants. Deputies arrested Elijah Smith, 37, after he surrendered when K9s arrived, Countryman said. Deputies recovered an AK-47 inside and cleared the stolen vehicle previously reported by Columbus Police Department, according to Countryman.

Reported by Mark Rice, published Oct. 17

Police probe continues in CSU professor’s death

The Columbus Police Department is still investigating the shooting death of Columbus State University professor Erica Anderson in a residence near Lakebottom, CPD said. Muscogee County Coroner Buddy Bryan said the 31-year-old’s shooting in the 1600 block of 17th Avenue was accidental. He said a roommate mistook Anderson for an intruder. CPD Public Information Officer Brittany Santiago said the department cannot comment yet on potential charges, relationships, or other details during the active investigation. Bryan said Anderson’s body will go to the Georgia Bureau of Investigation for an autopsy. CSU President Stuart Rayfield said the university is deeply saddened and is supporting students and colleagues.

Reported by Kelby Hutchison, published Oct. 17

Synovus taps regional leaders amid merger phase

Synovus Financial Corporation and Pinnacle Financial Partners named new Georgia market leaders as their merger advances, the companies said in a news release. Charlie Clark, Synovus president of community banking and Georgia geography leader, said local leadership deepens relationships and drives client growth. Heath Schondelmayer was named regional president for Columbus, LaGrange, Warner Robins, Phenix City, and Macon. He has led West Central Georgia and East Alabama since 2022 and joined Synovus in 1997. Will Thompson was appointed regional leader for the Phenix City division and has been with Synovus since 1999. The Pinnacle–Synovus merger remains pending regulatory approval, with closure expected in 2026.

Reported by Jordyn Paul-Slater, published Oct. 16

This story was originally published October 22, 2025 at 6:47 PM with the headline "(Columbus) Ledger-Enquirer week in review."