DeKalb County data center freeze extended
The DeKalb County Board of Commissioners extended a temporary moratorium on new data center applications to September to study infrastructure impacts and draft new regulations. Residents are urged to stay engaged and voice concerns over potential utility costs, water usage, and noise pollution from proposed facilities in the southwestern part of the county.
The DeKalb County Board of Commissioners has extended its temporary moratorium on new data center applications until September. This extension aims to provide time for officials to thoroughly study the potential infrastructure impacts of these developments and to draft new regulations, including a "text amendment" to protect the community.
Local residents, particularly in the southwestern part of DeKalb County, have expressed significant concerns. Cory Turner, a 22-year resident, indicated he would vote against data centers due to anticipated increases in utility bills. Harrison Osuorgi echoed these worries, specifically citing the high water consumption of data centers.
Commissioner Nicole Massiah, representing District 3, emphasized that while she is not against investment or technology, she opposes developments that would detrimentally affect her community. She stressed the importance of community input in determining appropriate locations for large-scale industrial facilities and urged residents to educate themselves and engage in the ongoing process to ensure new regulations protect their interests.