Americus City Council Discusses Data Center Ordinance Amendment
The Americus City Council discussed a proposed ordinance to regulate data centers, raising concerns about the lack of water usage regulation in the current draft. City Attorney Tommy Coleman advised against its approval next week, emphasizing the need for more discussion and public input. An upcoming public hearing is scheduled to address the ordinance.
The Americus City Council convened on September 17 to discuss a proposed ordinance amendment intended to regulate data centers within the city. City Attorney Tommy Coleman advised against approving the current draft during the upcoming September 24 public hearing, stating that more discussion is needed.
Council members Daryl Dowdell and Nelson Brown, along with Mayor Travis Rush, expressed significant concerns, particularly about the ordinance's failure to adequately address water usage. Coleman acknowledged that water regulation might need to be handled separately within the city code.
Chief Building Inspector Roger Willis clarified that city wells could restrict data centers' water strain, and City Manager Raphel Willis suggested mandating closed-loop systems for water recycling. Coleman emphasized the importance of considering public comments before any final approval.