Augusta finalizes data center rules as resident urges tougher oversight, enforcement
Augusta commissioners approved a 29-page data center ordinance on a 6–5 second-reading vote, directing facilities away from residential and agricultural areas and imposing noise, setback, water-use and cooling requirements. Residents and several commissioners argued the rules need stronger oversight and enforcement, while the ordinance will not apply to QTS’s already-approved facility near Haynes Station, which is under construction.
Augusta commissioners approved a data center ordinance on second reading by a 6–5 vote, despite objections from several commissioners and resident Chastanae Cherry. The ordinance directs data centers to industrial, business and mixed-use areas, establishes project tiers and public-hearing requirements, and sets noise limits, residential and farmland buffers, fencing requirements and closed-loop cooling standards. It also bars private wells from being used for cooling.
Cherry urged the city to create an oversight committee and require verifiable reporting of water use, noise compliance, utility capacity, environmental reviews and decommissioning funds. Commissioners Stacy Pulliam, Lonnie Wimberly, Francine Scott and Jordan Johnson sought additional protections or more expert review, including stricter noise and setback provisions, while Mayor Garnett Johnson and other supporters argued Augusta needs rules that protect residents without discouraging investment.
The ordinance does not apply to a large QTS facility under construction near Haynes Station off Gordon Highway because the project received zoning approval before Augusta’s moratorium on new data center applications. City attorneys said updated building standards may still apply to that project, and Planning Director Lisa Cameron said broader zoning revisions and further public input remain planned.