Putnam commissioners set first reading for moratorium on 'mega' data centers

The Putnam County Board of County Commissioners on July 28 directed staff to schedule a first reading of a moratorium on so-called "mega" data centers, with the board expecting that first reading at its Aug. 25 meeting.

Commissioner Harvey raised the item during the meeting, saying the board had received constituent inquiries and that his office had circulated a draft moratorium; the board agreed to move the matter ahead so the community could weigh in. "We charged our administration with letting us know when they get comments about data centers," Harvey said, asking that the item appear while people are still engaged.

Administrator Suggs told the board she would check availability and advertising deadlines and coordinate with absent legal staff, and that the administration would aim to get the moratorium on the earliest feasible agenda. Commissioner Alexander confirmed the schedule would constitute the first reading under the county's advertising rules.

The board did not adopt policy language on July 28; commissioners framed the vote as procedural — to place a first reading on the August agenda so the public can comment. Commissioner Harvey said he opposed large data centers in his remarks; other commissioners asked for an opportunity to hear public input before drafting final language.

Next steps: staff will finalize advertising and scheduling and bring a first-reading item back to the board at the next available meeting, currently expected Aug. 25. The board signaled this is the opening of a formal process that will include additional readings and public hearings.