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Residents flood commissioners with comments on chickens, data centers, taxes and transparency
Summary
A long public-comment period at the June 2 Newton County meeting focused on proposed UDO changes affecting backyard chickens and roosters, possible data center development, taxes and calls for greater transparency. Petition organizers reported 562 signatures opposing limits on chickens; commissioners said the UDO review is ongoing and that the aim is to craft solutions, not to remove residents' livestock.
A sustained public-comment session on June 2 drew dozens of residents to speak passionately about proposed updates to the county’s unified development ordinance (UDO), data centers, tax pressure on seniors and a recent sheriff‑deployment controversy.
Petition and chickens: Several residents said they oppose proposed restrictions on backyard chickens and roosters. One petitioner told the board: “As of right now, we have 562 signatures in less than a week.” Speakers described food‑security, small‑scale farming and senior supplemental income as reasons to allow larger flock sizes on rural parcels. Opponents said roosters and higher densities create noise and nuisance risks in closer-in neighborhoods.
County response and process: Commissioners and staff repeatedly said the county is reviewing existing livestock and chicken ordinances as part of a broader UDO revision and that no immediate removal of chickens was planned. Commissioner Edwards said staff are reviewing current rules and that he “won’t vote to change the chicken ordinances” as presented at this stage. The vice chair reassured speakers that, “Nobody’s coming to your house to get your chickens and take them away from you.”
Data centers and infrastructure concerns: Several speakers raised questions about data-center development in county-designated areas, citing possible impacts on water supply, electrical load and long-term costs; one resident said international examples show data centers may strain local utility resources. Others tied data-center growth to broader questions of where and how the county wants to encourage industrial development.
Taxes, budget and transparency: Multiple speakers urged fiscal scrutiny, arguing senior residents may be harmed by millage increases and that a large share of the budget appears to be devoted to public safety. Residents called for more transparent access to commissioners’ packets and suggested online publication of planning/zoning items and town halls to improve outreach.
Adjournment and next steps: Commissioners said they want public input and will continue the UDO review process; staff and the county attorney were asked to bring recommendations and revisions back to the board. The meeting adjourned after commissioners invited residents to participate in advisory discussions.
