Jesup Commissioners vs Data Center Proposal
The Jesup City Commission is debating a proposed data center in Wayne County, Georgia, citing a lack of transparency from the Wayne County Industrial Development Authority. Commissioners are seeking more control over the project, considering public hearings, ordinance changes, and potential actions to stop the development. Active opposition from some commissioners and residents is ongoing.
The debate surrounding a proposed data center in Wayne County, Georgia, intensified during a recent Jesup City Commission meeting. Several commissioners expressed significant concerns regarding a lack of transparency and information about the project, stating they were unaware of the development until residents began raising questions. The proposed data center is connected to the Wayne County Industrial Development Authority, not directly under the Jesup City Commission's purview, a distinction city leaders acknowledge as important.
Commissioners are now actively exploring their authority over the project, with calls for a public work session held at a convenient time for working residents, public hearings, and expert input. Some commissioners are advocating for changes to city ordinances to gain more control over future data center developments.
A strong sentiment against the project was voiced by some commissioners, with one stating, "I think we should do any and everything we can to stop this data center. It's not good for Jesup. The people don't want it." However, other commissioners emphasized the importance of gathering public opinion, particularly from the affected district, to guide their votes rather than relying solely on personal beliefs.
The Jesup City Commission is currently considering scheduling a public work session and actively examining potential changes to zoning laws and other local ordinances, which could grant them greater oversight and regulatory power regarding future data center proposals. WJCL 22 News reached out to the Wayne County Industrial Development Authority for comment but had not received a response.