Colleton County approves controversial data center rules despite pushback
Colleton County Council unanimously approved a controversial zoning change to create a Digital Infrastructure Overlay District, allowing data centers across much of the county's rural land. This decision came despite significant opposition from residents concerned about noise, power, and water usage. The council also partially repealed an earlier six-month moratorium on data center development, while implementing new regulations like noise caps and water cooling system requirements.
Colleton County Council in South Carolina has unanimously approved a controversial zoning change, establishing a new Digital Infrastructure Overlay District that will allow data centers across significant portions of the county's rural landscape. The decision, made despite considerable public opposition, enables data center development in areas west of Interstate 95 and those already zoned Light Industrial, Industrial, and Heavy Industrial.
Residents voiced strong concerns leading up to the vote, gathering over 5,000 signatures and protesting with signs. Local resident Shawn Bennett expressed disappointment that the council was "not listening to the people," a sentiment echoed by Cyndi Colson, who called the decision "flat out wrong." Timothy McLaughlin, a farmer, raised worries about noise impacts on his honey bee operation, lamenting the change to agriculturally zoned timberland.
The council's approval partially repeals a six-month moratorium on data centers enacted in July, effectively lifting the pause in specific areas. While opening the door for development, the new overlay district imposes several restrictions. These include a 65-decibel noise cap, 200-foot buffer setbacks, and a requirement for data centers to utilize closed-loop water or air-cooled cooling systems. Environmental advocates, such as Grant McClure of the Coastal Conservation League, highlighted concerns about exorbitant power consumption, potential cost increases for ratepayers, and the proliferation of gas plants to meet energy demands, along with emissions from backup generators.
Despite the new regulations, many residents felt their concerns were disregarded. Lifelong resident Lillie Vaughn urged the council to listen, emphasizing the importance of protecting the county's natural resources for future generations. Dozens of concerned citizens were unable to attend the meeting due to capacity limits, and some who signed up to speak were reportedly denied the opportunity.