Athens Planning Commission recommends zoning ordinance update to address data centers

The Athens Planning Commission in Alabama has recommended an amendment to the city's zoning ordinance for its heavy industrial district along Wilkinson Street. This change, voted on March 17th, would classify data centers as "conditional use," requiring special permits and public input for their construction. While no specific data center request has been received, City Planner Aaron Tidwell stated that Athens is being proactive in addressing a growing national trend concerning data centers. The proposed ordinance update is a response to widespread concerns about the ecological impact of data centers, including high water usage, pollution, gas emissions, and significant strain on energy consumption. The American Association for the Advancement of Science has highlighted these issues in other parts of the country, noting that while data centers provide jobs and infrastructure, they also generate toxic e-waste. Conversely, proponents suggest a new technology facility could bring economic benefits, infrastructure improvements, jobs, and further development to Athens, one of Alabama's fastest-growing areas. The proposal is scheduled for a vote before the Athens City Council on April 27th, where members will deliberate the pros and cons of the zoning ordinance change.