Large crowds attend countywide anti-data center events
Large crowds attended anti-data center events hosted by Citizens for Rural Coweta across Coweta County, Georgia, on Saturday. Residents signed petitions opposing data center developments and related rezoning requests, aiming for a countywide referendum to overturn the county's decision allowing data centers as a special use. Concerns include preserving rural character, protecting wildlife, safeguarding water resources, and addressing environmental impacts.
Citizens for Rural Coweta organized several pop-up events and petition drives across Coweta County, Georgia, drawing significant public participation from residents opposed to proposed data center developments. Attendees reported long lines at locations like Madras Community Center, with some estimating hundreds present.
Organizer Steve Swope stated the group's long-term goal is to trigger a countywide referendum, leveraging Georgia's home rule provisions, to allow voters to challenge the county's decision permitting data centers as a special use in unincorporated Coweta County. The effort targets collecting 14,000 to 16,000 signatures from registered voters, exceeding the 12,000 required to mandate a special election.
Resident Julie Wall expressed surprise and excitement at the turnout, emphasizing that opposition extends beyond those living near proposed sites. Opponents voiced concerns over preserving Coweta County's rural character, protecting wildlife habitats, safeguarding water resources, and potential health and environmental impacts. Wall also criticized the conduct of current commissioners during recent public hearings, citing dismay at their treatment of residents expressing objections.