Effingham officials discuss data center ordinance
An "AI Data Center Revolt Tour Bus" stopped in Effingham County, Georgia, highlighting public opposition to proposed data centers, particularly an OpenAI project. County leaders discussed a new data center ordinance to address concerns like noise and define standards, with a potential vote in November. The conversation also included a possible data center moratorium.
The "AI Data Center Revolt Tour Bus" made a stop in Effingham County, Georgia, ahead of a county commissioner's work session, drawing attention to growing opposition against large-scale data centers in the area. Residents and speakers expressed concerns, emphasizing their desire for public input on developments impacting their neighborhoods.
During the work session, Effingham County leaders discussed developing a new data center ordinance, as one currently does not exist. The proposed ordinance aims to strengthen standards, including addressing low-frequency noise, requiring buffers for backup generators, and creating a formal definition for data centers. Officials hope to place the ordinance on a November agenda for a vote.
Commissioner Beth Weaver also brought up the possibility of a data center moratorium. Additionally, a site plan review for "Project Amelia," identified as an OpenAI data center, has been postponed indefinitely.