Augusta finalizes data center rules as resident urges tougher oversight, enforcement
Augusta commissioners approved an ordinance establishing long-term rules for future data centers in a 6-5 vote. Some commissioners sought greater setbacks from homes and outside expertise, while a resident criticized the decision and urged tougher oversight and enforcement.
Augusta commissioners gave final approval to new rules governing future data center development after months of debate. The ordinance passed its second reading by a 6-5 vote and remains in effect as written, despite proposals to increase the distance between data centers and homes and bring in a data center expert before the vote.
Supporters said Augusta needed protections in place while also preserving opportunities for incentives and tax relief. At least one resident criticized the commissioners’ decision, while the city’s planning director said the rules could be amended in the future; developers applying before any changes would be evaluated under the ordinance in effect at the time of their applications.