Putnam County schedules first reading of proposed moratorium on ‘mega’ data centers

Commissioner Larry Harvey asked the Putnam County Board of County Commissioners to place a draft moratorium on so-called "mega data centers" on the agenda for the second meeting in August, saying the board needed time to hear public comment and study possible regulations. "For months now, we've been kicking around data centers," he said, requesting the moratorium be scheduled while the roomful of citizens is available.

Chair responded that the board had a motion and a second; Administrator Suggs said staff would coordinate with the county attorney and aim to have the matter advertised and ready for the Aug. 25 meeting. "As soon as I have an opportunity to reach Mr. Commando, I will see if that second meeting in August is indeed the first available," Suggs said. Commissioners discussed that the first reading would satisfy advertising requirements and that further readings would follow as required. Commissioner Alexander clarified this would be the ordinance's first reading and noted the likely two-reading process under statutory notice rules.

Why it matters: Commissioners framed the moratorium as a pause to allow study and public input on land-use and infrastructure impacts tied to large-scale data facilities. Several members emphasized the need to move expeditiously while preserving the public process. The board directed staff to pursue scheduling for the first reading on Aug. 25 and to circulate the draft and legal guidance to commissioners and the public.