In Whitfield County, officials face growing resident backlash as data centers expand
Residents in Whitfield County, Georgia are expressing growing concerns over existing and planned data center expansions, including those by Core Scientific. A recent court order validated billions in bond financing for the company, clearing the way for equipment purchases. Despite county officials addressing public concerns, a protest against new data centers is being organized.
Residents of Whitfield County, Georgia, are voicing significant concerns regarding the expansion of data centers, particularly those operated by Core Scientific. The public backlash comes amidst a recent court order that validated billions of dollars in bond financing for Core Scientific's machinery, equipment, and personal property, with officials assuring taxpayers are not liable for the debt.
Carl Campbell, Director of the Joint Development Authority, stated that some of the public's concerns are unwarranted, while Whitfield County Administrator Bob Sivick highlighted the necessity of data centers for daily technology use. Despite these reassurances, a flyer advocating for a protest against any new data centers in the county has been widely circulated on social media, indicating ongoing community opposition to the developments.
Core Scientific is reportedly expanding its operations in the area and currently runs two data centers in Dalton with a power capacity of 50 megawatts.