Commissioners weigh stricter data center rules

The Coweta County Board of Commissioners is actively revising the county's data center ordinance, even as a moratorium on new data center development remains in effect until December 23 or until new amendments are adopted. During a recent work session, commissioners directed county staff to incorporate more stringent regulations concerning noise, zoning classifications, buffer requirements, on-site power generation, and community meeting protocols.

Commissioner John Reidelbach specifically advocated for language to limit low-frequency noise from data center cooling fans, suggesting magnetic fans could mitigate the issue. Discussions also included increasing buffer zones, though Public Works Administrator Tod Handley cautioned that excessively large buffers could render significant portions of properties unusable. The board also proposed moving data centers from the light industrial (LM) zoning district to the more restrictive industrial (M) district, requiring a conditional-use permit for each project.

County Attorney Nathan Lee advised that any attempt to cap the number of data centers would likely face legal challenges and would require demonstrable evidence based on public health, safety, and welfare to defend in court. He emphasized that the county cannot simply ban data centers without empirical justification. Commissioner Reidelbach also addressed power availability, suggesting the ordinance allow liquefied natural gas for on-site power generation to address delays in grid connectivity, provided noise compliance.

County Administrator Michael Fouts recommended requiring noise studies before application submission and independent third-party inspectors for erosion and sedimentation control, which the commissioners supported. A revised draft of the ordinance is expected to be presented at an upcoming work session or public hearing. The moratorium, approved in June, exempts five proposed data centers that had already submitted applications.