We were frustrated to learn that a data center had been approved in Cobb County with minimal citizen input, but we are extremely disappointed in the City of Marietta’s response to the recent calls for community hearings.
Citizens can show up to any public meetings and speak about issues they care about, regardless if it is on the agenda or not. If the city refuses to hold a public hearing on an unpopular project, everyday people can use public comment to make their voices heard.
Data centers are controversial and often incur bipartisan criticism due to their noise, pollution, and other adverse effects to surrounding communities. This 31-acre center will use Cobb County infrastructure to sustain itself, and there are valid community concerns that citizens will bear the brunt of these costs instead of the center’s operators.
We have seen this play out across the country and even across the state. Soaring energy prices and undrinkable water all for a project that employs few local residents and generates next to nothing for the community.
We encourage our members to make their case to the City of Marietta during their June 10 meeting. The meeting will be held at 205 Lawrence Street Southwest in Marietta and will begin at 7 p.m.
Due to limited speaking slots, community organizers from A Better Cobb are encouraging residents to wear red to show support for those speaking out against the data center.
