‘This is personal’: Haynes Station neighbors press for data center answers

Residents of Augusta, Georgia's Haynes Station community confronted representatives from QTS and Georgia Power at a public meeting, demanding answers about a planned data center development near their homes. Neighbors, including Zakiyah Mabery and Andrew Chatman II, expressed frustration over the perceived lack of early communication about the project, which they learned about in February, well after purchasing their homes. While acknowledging the need for data centers, residents questioned the site selection and potential impacts on property values, with Felina Martin stating her biggest concern was a decrease in home value.

QTS representatives explained their choice of location was due to proximity to Fort Gordon, the growing cybersecurity industry, and existing infrastructure. They detailed efforts to address environmental concerns, including surveys for cultural resources and endangered species, redesigning to avoid aquatic impacts, and working with the Georgia Environmental Protection Division on remediating an inert landfill. The company also outlined plans for noise reduction, extensive landscaping with native plants, and lighting restrictions to minimize visual and light pollution.

Georgia Power addressed electricity concerns, referencing the Georgia Public Service Commission's regulations preventing cost shifting to existing customers and efforts to expand generation capacity. QTS also clarified its water usage, stating it employs a closed-loop cooling system and air-cooled chillers that do not consume water, and has received a "Will Serve" letter from Augusta Utilities. Traffic impact was deemed minimal due to the facility's nature, with QTS projecting 45 permanent on-site jobs after construction. The company affirmed its commitment to safety and compliance, with permit applications and monitoring protocols in place.