DeKalb commissioners extend data-center moratorium, approve rezoning and land‑bank transfers amid business‑licensing and small‑business outreach

DeKalb County’s Board of Commissioners on Tuesday extended a temporary moratorium on permitting new data centers, approved a contested rezoning in east DeKalb for a 28–32‑unit housing project, and authorized transfer of 26 county‑owned parcels to the county’s land bank — while county staff briefed the public and prospective suppliers on local small‑business certification and licensing requirements.

The board voted to extend a countywide moratorium on the permitting or expansion of data centers in unincorporated DeKalb through Dec. 16, 2025. Planning staff recommended the extension to allow the county time to finish proposed regulations and hold further public input; commissioners and public speakers said they want additional safeguards on noise, water use and community review.

The board also approved a rezoning application to redevelop wooded lots on Glenwood Road into a mix of single‑family detached and attached homes. Planning staff recommended approval with conditions; the final approval included a limit on the number of dwelling units, requirements for open space and park completion, and transportation and sidewalk improvements required by the county transportation department. Neighbors who spoke in favor said the developer adjusted plans after repeated community meetings; at least one nearby resident pressed for a lower density and more community input.

Separately the board voted to transfer 26 county‑owned parcels — a mix of vacant lots and a small number of parcels with existing structures — to the DeKalb Regional Land Bank Authority for disposition and redevelopment. County officials said the parcels were selected from the county’s inventory of tax‑delinquent or vacant properties, with the goal of returning usable land to the tax rolls and creating opportunities for housing and neighborhood rehabilitation.

During a county business‑resources presentation, procurement and small‑business staff described the Local Small Business Enterprise (LSBE) certification, a supplier academy planned for October, and the county’s process for certifying vendors. Staff urged businesses to register their NIGP classification codes, complete SAM registration when applicable, and use a PO box or virtual address if they wish to avoid publishing personal home addresses. County licensing staff also reviewed the local business‑license process: applicants must apply to DeKalb County if they operate in the unincorporated county, even if they are registered with…