Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Zoning Data Centers topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Athens staff propose zoning rules to manage where data centers can locate
Summary
City Planner Ronda Cockerham proposed adding “data centers” to Athens’ zoning ordinance to allow the use in Industrial districts only with a Specific Use Permit, and outlined requirements including setbacks, screening, NFPA signage, decommissioning bonds, environmental monitoring and a 500-square-foot size limit.
City Planner Ronda Cockerham presented a proposal Feb. 18 to add a definition for “data centers” to Chapter 22, Article IV, Section 2232(O) and Appendix A (A‑3) and to allow the use in Industrial zoning districts only through a Specific Use Permit (SUP).
Cockerham said staff would prohibit data centers in residential and mixed‑use districts, in floodplains and wetlands, and in any location where required buffer or separation standards could not be met. The proposal would require setbacks, screening and noise controls, and NFPA‑required safety signage.
The staff presentation outlined administrative requirements for applicants including a complete inventory of installed equipment, proof of general liability insurance, and detailed SUP application materials and certifications. Cockerham also described plans for decommissioning requirements backed by financial security (bonds) and an environmental monitoring program. A suggested size limit of 500 square feet was noted in the draft language, and staff flagged concerns about potential water use and environmental safety tied to operations.
Mayor Aaron Smith and Chairman Brian Schutt presided over the joint work session; no formal vote was taken and council members and commissioners discussed the provisions as draft language. Commissioner Jim Kerlin disclosed on the record that his employer had previously been involved in battery energy storage systems.
The joint session closed at 6:10 p.m.; staff will bring draft ordinance language back for further review and next steps were not decided during the work session.
