Forest Park Council passes 90-day data center moratorium
The Forest Park City Council approved a 90-day data center moratorium to allow time to draft changes to its zoning laws. This action aims to balance the economic benefits of data centers with long-term community impacts. The city plans to refine data center definitions and regulations, including proximity buffers and company accountability.
The Forest Park City Council in Georgia has enacted a 90-day moratorium on data center development, effective August 31, to allow city officials to draft revisions to its zoning ordinances. City Manager Carl Geffken explained that under current regulations, data centers are permitted "by right," which previously allowed companies like Digital Realty to build facilities in Forest Park.
While acknowledging the financial benefits data centers can bring, such as increased funding for infrastructure and public safety, Geffken clarified that the moratorium's intent is not to prohibit data centers entirely but to ensure their responsible integration. SaVaughn Irons-Kumassah of Planning and Community Development detailed that the proposed zoning changes would address data center definitions, permissible locations, necessary buffers from residential areas, and provisions for developer accountability.
Council members Hector Gutierrez and Allan Mears expressed support for the moratorium, with Gutierrez emphasizing the need to consider long-term impacts on residents and infrastructure. Mears, while voting for the moratorium, cautioned against excessive delays that could deter developers. The city also plans to seek community input and form a community advisory committee during this period.