Maysville citizens again speak out about data center plans
Maysville citizens are vocally opposing a planned data center development, citing concerns about noise, water, electricity consumption, and environmental impact. The Maysville City Council is considering implementing a moratorium on development and has approved a conditional use permit for the project in the past. An online petition and ongoing protests reflect the strong community opposition.
Maysville citizens have repeatedly voiced strong concerns regarding a planned data center project at recent City Council meetings, leading to loud and disruptive outbursts. Residents are particularly worried about potential noise, water supply strain, increased electricity consumption, and broader environmental impacts. Police Chief Doug Anderson frequently intervened to maintain order during the contentious meetings.
Maysville Mayor Richard Presley announced plans for a town hall meeting with data center developers before the end of July to address citizen questions. City Council members indicated they would explore implementing a development moratorium and other actions in response to the community's outcry. This follows a January 2025 decision where the City Council approved a conditional use permit for the data center to locate in the town's industrial park.
The project involves Northern Data, which has operated a smaller crypto mining data center in Maysville since 2019 and, in 2022, proposed a larger data center on an adjoining 63 acres, to be supported by a new Georgia Power substation. Opposition efforts include an online petition on Change.org with over 1,800 signatures, urging the City Council to halt the project until a Community Benefits Agreement and stricter local ordinances are established. A local group is also holding bi-weekly protests.