Jesup advances data center regulations despite pushback from packed crowd

SAVANNAH, Ga. (WTOC) - Following hours of fierce public debate inside a packed Cracker Williams Recreation Center, Jesup city officials voted Tuesday night to advance proposed regulations governing data centers.

In a 4-2 vote, commissioners approved the first reading of an ordinance that formally defines data centers and permits them as a “conditional use” in light industrial zoning districts. Because Tuesday’s vote was only a preliminary step, the measure must pass additional readings before taking final effect.

Dozens of residents lined up at the microphone to voice concern, urging leaders to enact a complete moratorium rather than moving ahead with regulations. Opponents argued a temporary freeze on new applications would allow the city adequate time to study potential impacts on local water resources and the power grid.

“My concern is that commissioners are talking about — we need the ordinance because if the moratorium doesn’t go through, then we’re not protected,” said Jesup resident Erin Wallace. “But then the others are saying they don’t want the ordinance because the moratorium will give us time to make the ordinance stronger. It just seems disingenuous to me that we don’t do both.”

City officials have not yet announced the date for the ordinance’s second reading.