COWETA COUNTY, Ga. — Another metro Atlanta county will now regulate data center construction.
After months of debate, the Coweta County Commission voted 4-1 to pass an ordinance. Commissioner Bill McKenzie was the only member who voted not to approve the ordinance.
Channel 2’s Courtney Francisco was at the meeting on Tuesday night.
It puts guidelines in place on data center noise, land and water usage as well as building design.
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“I believe it’s going to be an example for all the jurisdictions,” said Alejandro Juan Glomba.
Critics said it does not do enough to protect their health, land and property.
“They’re arrogant, and they don’t listen to the people,” said Gary Martin. “Where in the world do these folks think they get off making decisions totally negating and totally forgetting the input that citizens are making around this?”
County staff started designing a data center ordinance in May, after a California-based tech company submitted an application to build a campus near Wagers Mill Road.
Arthur “Skin” Edge IV is an attorney who represents the property owner. He said the tax revenue data centers can bring to a county makes it worth it.
“I think if you compare this ordinance with the ones enacted, Coweta County’s is going to be one of the toughest ones in the state,” said Edge. “The citizens had input. The Developers had input.”
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Neighbors pointed out that the land is currently in a conservation zone, so it will have to undergo rezoning before any construction begins.
“I’m 80 years old, and I’m looking at selling my land in a couple of years because of my age, okay, and I’m aware I’m going to lose property value,” said Dennis Williams.
Commissioners paused any construction until they agreed on an ordinance to establish guidelines. Each draft was subject to public comment.
Seven months later, the final draft passed. However, the division remains.
“This is one of the best deals that come to Coweta,” said Glomba.
“They’re obviously leaning toward developers,” said Robert Lytten. “It’s very disappointing.”
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