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Residents and prospective residents urge Colleton County to scrutinize proposed data center, cite environmental concerns
Summary
Multiple public commenters at the Feb. 9 Colleton County Council meeting raised environmental and community concerns about a proposed data center, noting potential local impacts. Council cited litigation and legal guidance that limited its ability to answer some questions.
At the Feb. 9 meeting of Colleton County Council, several public commenters urged county officials to scrutinize a proposed data center project and to consider potential environmental effects.
Natalee Marick, who identified herself as a resident of Beaufort County, said she was concerned about the data center and its environmental effects. Shelley Perkins, who said she currently lives in Charleston County and plans to move to Colleton County, also expressed concerns about the proposed project. Multiple commenters raised similar worries about local impacts.
Chairman Scott Biering acknowledged the public comments and read a prepared statement noting the county is in litigation and under legal guidance. He told attendees: "While we are not able to answer and comment on many of your questions and concerns, we greatly appreciate your understanding while we navigate the legal process." The statement also noted Council's ongoing cooperative relationship with the Colleton County Legislative Delegation.
Other public comments at the meeting addressed infrastructure and safety issues: Felicia Johnson requested attention to a dangerous ditch near her house and asked for more streetlights; Pam Sheaf raised ongoing issues with Volunteer Lane. The meeting record shows some commenters live outside Colleton County but said they have concerns about local projects and will move to the county.
Council members did not take formal action related to the data center at the Feb. 9 meeting; the public record in the transcript contains concerns but no technical studies, mitigation plans, or administrative determinations. The chairman’s statement and the council’s entry into executive session for legal advice limited the council’s public responses during the meeting.
