Panelists address data center resources, local stances in Jesup

JESUP, Ga. (WTOC) - More than 100 people living in and around Wayne County gathered to learn and strategize about the idea of data centers in their community.

Wayne County Neighbors for Responsible Development hosted three panelists with scientific backgrounds.

The presentation covered what a data center is and the resources it needs, along with the county and city’s current stances.

The meeting then took a turn toward strategy, specifically civic engagement moving forward.

Shannon Gregory, a panelist with Satilla Riverkeeper, said, “Ultimately, being silent and not showing up is your consent for whatever is happening, and so if nobody is there to stand up and speak out at these meetings over any concerns, then yes, anything and everything can get passed in these meetings.”

Jesup City Council is in the final stages of drafting an ordinance for data centers.

Organizers urged residents to research and attend public meetings to push for strict guidelines.

The council will host a town hall Sept. 29 from 5 to 7 p.m. ahead of its final vote on the ordinance.

WTOC will have more about this meeting on The News at 11.