Telfair County sheriff announces migrant worker housing at former Workmore School site

Telfair County Sheriff Sim Davidson responded Monday to what he called "numerous calls" his office has received about work happening at the former Workmore School site on US 319/US 441/SR 31.

WORKMORE, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – Telfair County Sheriff Sim Davidson responded Monday to what he called “numerous calls” his office has received about work happening at the former Workmore School site on US 319/US 441/SR 31.

According to a Facebook post by the sheriff, the property has been acquired by attorney Victor Pena and his father, who are set to renovate the facility to house temporary migrant farm workers.

Davidson says the project involves oversight by both the state of Georgia Workforce Agency and the Federal Department of Labor, “which will include very strict guidelines for operation,” he wrote.

According to Davidson, Victor Pena outlined plans to accommodate up to 250 workers from Mexico whose work “initially will include blueberry and pea harvesting in Coffee and Johnson Counties.” The workers, who Davidson says will have temporary H2A visas, are expected to be in the area from April through October.

“After the work season, the property will be vacated at least initially,” Davidson wrote. “Future development may include a restaurant and hotel open to the public.”

Davidson says transportation for the workers to and from the site and their work locations will be provided.

“He (Pena) doesn’t want to create fear that workers are taking away local jobs,” Davidson wrote. “He (Pena) wants to help improve the community and bring more business to our area.”

Davidson says local farmers in need of harvest assistance should contact Pena directly at (863) 528-5004.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates.