Bulloch County Commissioners Extend Data Center Moratorium, Direct Staff to Draft Ban

Bulloch County commissioners have taken significant steps towards a potential ban on data centers within the unincorporated areas of the county. During their May 5 meeting, the board unanimously voted to extend an existing temporary moratorium on data center permitting until at least December 31, 2026, or until a new zoning ordinance is adopted. Following this, commissioners further directed county staff to immediately begin drafting a zoning amendment that would outright prohibit data centers in Bulloch County. Chairman David Bennett noted that the county has not yet had discussions with any developers seeking to locate data centers in the area, emphasizing that the moratorium and potential ban are proactive measures to establish local rules. Public speakers at the hearing largely supported the moratorium, raising concerns about potential impacts on water usage, private wells, noise, light pollution, and other environmental effects. Some urged a careful study of the issue, while others advocated for an immediate and full prohibition. County Attorney Jeff Akins indicated that a full prohibition would necessitate a zoning ordinance amendment, a process that Planning and Development Director James Pope estimated could take over two months. The commissioners' decision reflects a strong sentiment against data center development, driven by community concerns and a desire to control future growth in the county.