County Board Committee Approached About Moratorium on Data Centers
The Effingham County Board's Administrative Committee discussed a proposed moratorium on data centers, following a similar action by the Effingham City Council. Advocates urged the county to implement a moratorium for further research on data center impacts. County officials noted that the county's lack of zoning might hinder direct enactment of a county-wide moratorium, with a formal board vote pending.
The Effingham County Board's Administrative Committee convened Monday to discuss concerns surrounding data center development, following the Effingham City Council's recent approval of a 12-month moratorium to allow for further impact research. Pat Lewis of the EASE Community Alliance and Nicholas Tkachuk urged the county to take similar action, advocating for more in-depth studies on data center impacts and encouraging residents to contact state legislators.
County Board Chairman Josh Douthit expressed agreement with the concerns raised but highlighted a potential obstacle: Effingham County's lack of zoning regulations, which he believes might preclude the county from unilaterally enacting a moratorium. Discussions also touched upon the necessity for incorporated communities within the county to approve their own moratoriums if desired.
The committee's recommendations, including the data center discussion, are slated for consideration and formal adoption by the full County Board at their upcoming meeting next Monday. The meeting also addressed other county matters, such as opioid funding, salary increases for public defenders, public transit system administration, and appointments to various boards and commissions.