Board initiates text change to Ellenwood PUD to remove data centers
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Summary
The Clayton County Board of Commissioners approved a resolution to begin removing data centers as an allowed use from the Ellenwood planned unit development; the planning process will follow the usual zoning review steps, including public notice and advisory review.
The Clayton County Board of Commissioners voted to initiate a text modification to the Ellenwood Planned Unit Development (PUD) that will remove data centers as an allowed use in that PUD.
The resolution (2025‑189) directs staff to undertake the zoning-text changes and follow the county’s regular zoning process, including public notification, a community information meeting, review by the zone advisory group (ZAG), and eventual public hearings before the board.
Why this matters: Data centers can have significant local impacts, including utility demand, traffic, and land-use changes. Initiating a text amendment begins a formal process that may ultimately prohibit future data centers within the Ellenwood PUD unless the board later amends that decision.
What the board approved: After a brief presentation from staff, the board voted to approve the staff request to “remove that specific use from Elmwood PUD” and to proceed with advertisement and the zoning-review steps. Director Ajikay (planning staff) told commissioners the modification “is to remove that specific use from Elmwood PUD.” The planning steps described by staff included advertising the change, holding a community meeting, taking the proposal through ZAG, and then returning to the board for decision.
Next steps: Staff will prepare the draft text amendment, publish required notices, and schedule the advisory and public hearings under the county’s zoning rules. The board must approve any final text amendment after the advisory and public hearing steps.
Ending: Commissioners recorded the motion by voice and the resolution carried; staff will proceed with the advertised process and bring materials back to the advisory group and the commissioners for final action.
