Montgomery County Commissioners Discuss Restrictive Data Center Ordinance

Montgomery County, Georgia, is grappling with the prospect of data center development, prompting ongoing discussions among county commissioners and concerned citizens. The debate intensified after Commissioner Amie Vassey revealed an inquiry from an individual seeking to lease parcels 036-12 and 036-13, currently owned by Georgia Transmission/Georgia Power, to construct an edge data center. This revelation sparked public outcry, with residents expressing strong opposition to such facilities near their homes due to concerns about noise, vibration, excessive water consumption impacting agriculture, and a perceived lack of transparency in development processes.\n\nCitizen Adam Craft, an experienced construction professional, urged commissioners to take proactive measures, highlighting the rapid expansion potential of data centers and the use of eminent domain for associated infrastructure like high-voltage transmission lines in neighboring counties. He emphasized that these developments often fail to benefit local communities and can lead to "land grabbing."\n\nIn response to these concerns, County Manager Heather Scott and County Attorney Ron Daniels have drafted a highly restrictive land use ordinance. Daniels clarified that the county cannot outright ban data centers without proper zoning but can implement stringent special use permit requirements. The proposed ordinance includes a $10,000 permit fee, detailed disclosure requirements for ownership and operations, a mandate for two public community meetings, and strict environmental impact analysis. It also specifies a "Go Away Green" paint color, significant setbacks (1,500 feet from property lines, 3 miles from water bodies or agricultural land), limits on impervious surfaces, an 8-foot anti-climb fence, and a maximum noise level of 35 decibels, with backup generators only permitted during emergencies.\n\nCounty Attorney Daniels characterized this as potentially "the most restrictive special use permit for data centers currently being considered by any county or municipal government in the state of Georgia that does not have zoning." Citizen Matthew Beggarly further suggested limiting maximum square footage to deter large developers and requiring closed-loop water systems, along with substantial environmental protection fund investments. Commissioners are expected to continue reviewing the draft and potentially vote on the legislation at their next monthly meeting on July 13.