Bulloch commissioners delay data center prohibition, deny Leefield liquor store
Bulloch County commissioners voted 3-2 to delay a proposed zoning amendment that would have effectively prohibited data centers in unincorporated areas, leaving the existing temporary moratorium in place through December 31, 2026. This delay allows for further research and development of permanent regulations, as residents raised concerns about environmental impact, water, and electricity consumption.
Bulloch County commissioners voted 3-2 to table a proposed zoning amendment that would have replaced the county’s temporary data center moratorium with an effective prohibition in unincorporated areas. The decision delays action for 30 days, leaving the existing moratorium, which prevents data center applications until December 31, 2026, in effect.
During a public hearing, residents and advocacy groups like Coastal Communities United voiced strong concerns about data centers. Speakers such as Ethan Castaneda and Alana Olson highlighted potential public health and environmental risks, including impacts on water and wastewater capacity, electricity consumption, noise, lighting, and the use of diesel generators. They urged commissioners to conduct further research and develop robust regulations.
Chairman David Bennett expressed opposition to an outright prohibition, citing the risk of costly legal challenges, but advocated for strict zoning regulations to address concerns regarding location, water usage, noise, and backup power. Commissioners Toby Conner and Timmy Rushing indicated they lacked sufficient information to make a final decision, with Rushing moving to table the amendment. The vote to delay was 3-2, with Commissioners Anthony Simmons, Ray Mosley, and Timmy Rushing voting to table, and Toby Conner and Ray Davis opposing the delay.
County Attorney Jeff Akins clarified that approving the amendment would have ended the moratorium while continuing to prohibit data centers through zoning until new regulations were adopted. By tabling the amendment, the existing moratorium remains active. The article also covered other county business, including the denial of a liquor store request, approval of a nail studio and a T-Mobile tower, and the advancement of an impact fee study without adopting a fee.