The city of Athens has decided to not make a permanent decision on data center proposals at this time, but has instead chosen to put a hold on data center approval for a full year to gather more information.
WOUB reported this month that the Athens City Council voted to freeze new data center permits while it considers the heavy water and electricity use associated with these facilities. It will also provide the city with the time to scrutinize its zoning rules and look at revisions that might more closely address data centers. Additionally, the city leaders are considering consulting with an outside firm to evaluate Athens existing zoning regulations.
Those on both sides of an issue can use a local flyer or brochure printing service to try and gain support for their side.
The city can only address property within the city limits, and across from Athens High School there is a tract of land that appears to have caught the eye of a New York developer. However, according to the Athens County Independent, on August 1, Athens Township Trustees voted to halt zoning-permit approvals for a year, as well.
Many cities are weighing the pros and cons of approving data center construction. While on the plus side, they bring in tax revenue as well as financial investment in the community, they also bring with them persistent noise and consume massive amounts of power, and often a large amount of water for cooling.
