Crowds show up to Statesboro data center rezoning meeting as city approves change
Statesboro City Council approved a rezoning request for a data center project after a deadlocked vote broken by the mayor. Residents expressed strong opposition, citing concerns about property values, water usage, and noise. The project, developed by 4am Development, still requires a special use permit and further reviews.
Statesboro, Georgia, saw a contentious City Council meeting where a rezoning request for a proposed data center off Burkhalter Road was narrowly approved. Mayor Jonathan McCollar cast the deciding vote in a deadlocked 3-2 decision, with Councilwomen Ginny Hendley and Tangie Johnson joining him in favor, and Councilwomen Sharri Barr and Councilman John Riggs dissenting.
The meeting drew a packed house, with residents filling City Hall to capacity and many expressing strong opposition to the project. Speakers raised concerns about maintaining the residential character of the area, potential impacts on property values, and increased water usage, arguing the project misaligned with the city's comprehensive plan. Following the vote, frustrated residents chanted, "Vote them out."
Charles Way of 4am Development, the project's developer, confirmed that no specific end-user company has yet committed to the site, stating that operators typically engage after zoning is secured. City Director of Planning and Development Justin Williams explained that the developer must now submit a special use permit application, which will undergo rigorous review by the Planning Commission and City Council, including a thorough noise study and water management plan. The city had previously passed an ordinance in June outlining the requirements for data centers under a special use permit. Williams indicated that Tuesday's meeting was the second of potentially four steps for the project, which will also require land disturbance permits and a developer agreement to ensure compliance with city restrictions.