Data centers, climate concerns in focus at Savannah town hall on Wednesday

Savannah residents gathered at the Otis Johnson Cultural Arts Center for a town hall meeting on Wednesday evening to discuss Georgia's burgeoning data center industry and its impact on local resources and the environment. The event, organized by Savannah Indivisible, featured an open discussion among seven panelists, including Georgia Public Service Commission candidates Craig Cupid and Angelia Pressley, as well as current Public Service Commissioner Peter Hubbard and Chatham County Commissioner Aaron “Adot” Whitely. Concerns were raised about data centers' significant consumption of water and electricity, the clearing of land for construction, and the potential long-term health effects from increased fossil fuel use. Panelists and residents highlighted that Georgia, currently ranking eighth nationally with over 100 data centers, is projected to rise to third. Critics like Chassidy Malloy of Georgia Conservation Voters noted the extensive land clear-cutting, while Commissioner Peter Hubbard warned that reliance on fossil fuels for data center power could increase utility bills. Several attendees, including Mike Rogers of Pulte Group and retired military psychologist Anthony Baxter, expressed frustration over data centers often receiving public utility subsidies and tax exemptions without commensurately contributing to the community through taxes or dividends. The town hall aimed to inform voters about these issues, with Commissioner Hubbard emphasizing the need to "get the policy right" regarding data center development. The meeting concluded with audience members sharing their perspectives on how these decisions have already impacted their lives, reinforcing the ongoing debate about balancing technological growth with environmental and economic responsibilities.