Habersham residents inquire about proposed zoning changes at open house
Residents in Habersham County, Georgia, attended an open house to discuss proposed changes to the Unified Development Ordinance (UDO), expressing concerns about future data center developments. The county is refining the UDO, which will include requirements for data centers to obtain special-use permits and adhere to setback rules, in response to public feedback regarding their energy and water consumption.
Dozens of Habersham County residents attended the first of two open house sessions to inquire about proposed changes to the county's Unified Development Ordinance (UDO). The sessions, led by Planning and Development Director Mike Beecham and his staff, aimed to explain how the updated regulations could affect properties and future development.
Among the key concerns raised by residents like Kathleen and John Johnson were the potential impact of data centers on the county, specifically citing high energy and water usage. With 94 data centers already operating statewide, residents are worried Habersham County could be next. County officials acknowledged they cannot prohibit data centers but can implement regulations to make their establishment more challenging, including requiring a 1,000-foot setback from churches, schools, and residences.
The UDO, which has generated significant public interest and drawn large crowds to previous town hall meetings, is still a work in progress. A revised version unveiled on June 4 included new regulations for data centers, such as the requirement for special-use permits and approval from both the Planning Commission and Board of Commissioners for any future data center proposal. County leaders are also exploring additional safeguards and impact fees to cover infrastructure costs associated with growth.