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Committee debates scope of independent study on data centers; members prefer a countywide baseline and university procurement route
Summary
Commissioners discussed a proposed resolution to commission an independent health and environmental study related to data centers. Some members urged a countywide environmental-health baseline study (not limited to data centers) and recommended starting with universities before issuing an RFQ/RFP; the committee held the item for additional member input.
Agenda item 2026-0244 asked the committee to consider a resolution requesting an independent third-party health and environmental study of data centers and their potential effects on DeKalb County. Commissioner Terry, who sponsored the resolution, said section 2's request for an RFQ to find a vendor is the central element; he suggested procurement would likely begin with local universities given policy exemptions that may speed work.
Several commissioners argued for a broader, countywide baseline study covering noise, air pollution and other environmental-health status metrics that any later project (data center or otherwise) could be measured against. Commissioner Patrick urged caution against tying the study to a specific user or parcel and recommended a baseline that subsequent applicants could reference; he cited a prior environmental study at PDK and concerns about debates over accuracy.
Commissioner Terry said the study would provide evidence to guide policy—citing one university finding that some data centers can create a heat-island effect of roughly four degrees in their immediate surroundings—and argued the moratorium on data-center text amendments should remain while the county completes analysis. Members agreed to hold the item for further input from Commissioner Long Spears and to refine scope and procurement approach.
