Augusta sets public hearings to help shape new data center ordinance
Augusta, Georgia, is holding public hearings in July to finalize a proposed ordinance aimed at regulating data centers. This action follows the approval of a large QTS Data Centers project and a subsequent freeze on all new data center proposals. The city seeks community feedback to ensure transparent and responsible planning for future developments.
Augusta, Georgia, is actively working to establish comprehensive regulations for data center development within its borders, announcing three public hearings in July to review a proposed ordinance. This initiative stems from the Augusta Commission's prior approval of a substantial 170-acre, $2 billion data center project by QTS Data Centers on Gordon Highway in 2024, at a time when specific local regulations were not in place. QTS has since commenced work on the 2.15-million-square-foot facility, having already secured the necessary zoning approvals.
Augusta Planning and Development Director Adleasia Cameron emphasized that the public hearings are a key part of the city's commitment to transparency, community engagement, and responsible planning, inviting residents and stakeholders to provide feedback on the draft ordinance before its finalization. The city's push for new regulations was underscored by the Augusta Commission's vote in June to enact a freeze on all future data center development proposals until a local ordinance is officially adopted. Critics of data centers often cite concerns over their significant consumption of power, water, and land, coupled with perceived limited local benefits. City officials are aware that halting the already-approved QTS project would likely entail a costly legal challenge. The public hearings are scheduled to take place at the Augusta Municipal Building.