Marietta City Council faces opposition over data center plans
Protestors gathered outside Marietta City Hall during a city council meeting to voice strong opposition to a proposed data center. Residents are concerned about potential environmental impacts, power, noise, and water usage, arguing that a prior rezoning decision was not adequately advertised. The council had previously approved rezoning 31 acres from commercial/retail to light industrial for the project.
Residents of Marietta, Georgia, staged a protest outside City Hall during a city council meeting, voicing strong opposition to a proposed data center development. Despite the topic not being on the night's agenda, concerned neighbors filled the chambers, demanding that the council reconsider its prior decisions regarding the 31-acre property near Bells Ferry Road and Interstate 75.
Joanne Cheek, a 30-year resident, expressed fears that the data center would force families from their homes. Protestors cited concerns over environmental impact, specifically "dirty water," and the general use of residents' data without consent. They questioned the transparency of the rezoning process, arguing that a town hall held a year prior was "not advertised enough."
The city of Marietta confirmed that the council had approved a request last year to rezone the land from commercial/retail to light industrial, following public notice and a 2.5-hour town hall. However, city officials clarified that no construction plans are currently underway, and any future development proposals would be subject to strict regulations concerning power, noise, and water use.
City council members did not provide a direct response to the protestors' concerns during the meeting, citing rules that limit comments on items not on the agenda. While data center supporters often highlight benefits like increased tax revenue, job creation, and environmental protections, the protestors emphasized their continued resolve to oppose the project.