Lowndes County leaders discuss drafting data center regulations ahead of any proposed projects
Lowndes County leaders are discussing and drafting an ordinance to establish regulations for data centers in anticipation of potential projects. This comes amidst significant pushback from residents concerned about the environmental impacts, water usage, electricity demands, noise, and light pollution associated with data centers. While residents are calling for a moratorium, county leaders are currently not considering one.
Lowndes County leaders are actively working on drafting an ordinance to establish specific regulations for data centers, prompted by residents' concerns over the potential impacts of future projects. County Manager Page Duke emphasized that no data center projects have been approved, nor have any agreements been signed.
Despite the county's efforts to proactively set regulations, residents continue to voice strong opposition, citing worries about electricity consumption, water usage, noise, light pollution, setbacks, and potential environmental harm like sinkholes. An information-sharing session was hosted by the county to address these concerns and discuss the proposed ordinance.
Some residents, like Dixie Haggard, expressed skepticism, stating that while they appreciate the county looking into regulations, they want stricter enforcement. Many residents are calling for a moratorium on data center development, urging the county to gather more data before allowing any projects to move forward. However, County Manager Page Duke stated that the county is not currently considering a moratorium, instead focusing on drafting regulations to address specific impacts and protect citizens and the environment. The draft ordinance is expected to be completed by the end of the month.