Billion-dollar Bartow County data center plan sparks pushback from residents
A billion-dollar data center planned on a 560-acre site near Kingston in Bartow County has received approval, but local residents are opposing the project over concerns about environmental damage, water use, electricity costs and noise. Kingston officials and supporters say the development could generate at least $2 million annually in taxes and fees, along with construction work and 50 to 100 permanent jobs.
A proposed 350,000-square-foot data center on 560 acres off State Route 293 in Bartow County has been approved, according to WSB-TV. The developer has not announced a construction or completion schedule.
Residents including Angela Hogue, James and Dana Nation, and Brandon McCoy voiced opposition, citing concerns about the project’s environmental effects, water consumption, electricity costs and noise. Kingston officials and resident Dillon Cribb pointed to the potential economic benefits, including at least $2 million in annual taxes and fees, infrastructure improvements, property tax relief and new jobs.