Candidates debate data centers, water access issues at environmental forum

During an environmental forum in Athens-Clarke County, Georgia, all five mayoral candidates—Tim Denson, Dexter Fisher, LaKeisha Gantt, Sharon Miller, and Mara Zúñiga—criticized data center development in the area. The debate, held at the Athens-Clarke County Library, highlighted concerns about their environmental impact, particularly on water access and electricity supply. Candidate Mara Zúñiga expressed disappointment that the Mayor and Commission recently lifted a temporary ban on new data centers, replacing it with a regulatory ordinance that has since been sent back to the ACC Planning Commission for revision. She noted that Athens' sole current data center on Voyles Road was built by Georgia Power under a 'built by right' ordinance, allowing construction without prior permission from the Mayor and Commission. Fisher advocated for new ordinances requiring companies to inform local government before construction. LaKeisha Gantt welcomed stronger language in ACC’s code of ordinances regarding data centers, suggesting that while a moratorium can be a statement of value, it requires robust follow-up policies. Tim Denson voiced concerns about potential negative repercussions on Athens’ water and electricity from data centers in neighboring counties, calling for state-level intervention. The candidates also addressed the critical issue of clean water access, particularly for the North Athens Pinewoods community and Pittard Road. Denson linked unreliable access to city infrastructure issues requiring significant Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax funding. Miller proposed securing external funding, while Fisher aimed to expand ACC's water quality efforts and replace aging pipes. Gantt and Zúñiga emphasized that clean water access is a core government responsibility and a top priority for infrastructure investment.