A proposed data center in Wayne County is facing growing opposition after several Jesup commissioners said they were unaware of the project until citizens began raising concerns.
During a recent Jesup City Commission meeting, city leaders expressed frustration over the limited information they had received about the development. Commissioners said the situation has created serious concerns about whether the project has been handled openly enough for the public and affected local governments to understand what is being planned.
The development is associated with the Wayne County Industrial Development Authority rather than the Jesup City Commission. City officials are now working to determine how much authority Jesup has over the proposal and whether any city regulations could affect it.
Several commissioners supported holding a public work session at a time when working residents could attend. The meeting would allow the public to receive information about the data center, voice concerns and hear directly from officials or experts familiar with projects of this size.
Some commissioners also want formal public hearings and professional guidance before the city chooses its next course of action.
At least one commissioner has already taken a firm position against the development, saying Jesup should examine every legal and regulatory option available to prevent the data center from being built.
The commissioner argued that the project would not benefit the city and does not have the support of many residents.
City leaders are also reviewing whether zoning rules or other local ordinances could be changed to give Jesup greater control over similar developments in the future.
However, not every commissioner has decided how they will vote. One city leader said any final decision should be guided by the residents of the district rather than personal views about data centers.
The Jesup City Commission has not announced any final action. Discussions are continuing about a public work session and what legal or regulatory options may be available to the city.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
Yolonda Harris
News Now Georgia
Leave a Reply