Bulloch County extends data center moratorium as leaders consider zoning changes

Bulloch County commissioners have voted to extend a temporary moratorium on permitting data centers in unincorporated parts of the county. The decision, made during a public hearing, aims to give leaders more time to study the potential impact of data centers and to tighten local rules regarding their development. Residents attending the hearing expressed concerns about how data centers could affect water infrastructure and questioned the transparency of the development process. Some residents advocated for a longer pause on data center development. The proposed extension would keep the moratorium in place through December 31st of this year. Commissioners also discussed the possibility of amending the current zoning ordinance, potentially to prohibit data centers from being built in the county altogether. Commissioner Bennett emphasized that the moratorium's intent is to be proactive, ensuring the county has adequate planning and zoning regulations in place before a developer expresses interest. Commissioners are expected to continue their research and consider the next steps.