Protecting Our Communities: Commissioner Chakira Johnson Supports Data Center Moratorium Extension
I want to thank everyone who has remained engaged in the conversation surrounding data center development in DeKalb County. Your emails, phone calls, attendance at public meetings, and thoughtful feedback have played an important role in shaping this discussion.
On Tuesday, July 7, 2026, the DeKalb County Board of Commissioners approved Resolution 2026-1109 by a 6-1 vote, extending the temporary moratorium on new data center development applications. This extension provides additional time to finalize comprehensive zoning regulations that will establish clear standards for the location, design, operation, and review of future data center proposals. The moratorium will remain in effect through March 30, 2027, unless further extended.
Importantly, the approved resolution also directs the Administration to develop a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for evaluating data center applications. This is a process I also proposed during the Board of Commissioners meeting on June 23. I wholeheartedly support this direction because it will help ensure consistency, transparency, interdepartmental coordination, and accountability as future applications are reviewed.
You can read the resolution here. I want to clear up some misinformation regarding the July 7 Board meeting. The item in question was included on the publicly posted agenda. It was not a walk-on item, despite what has been stated by others.
One of my priorities as Presiding Officer has been to reduce the use of walk-on agenda items and reserve them only for matters that are truly time-sensitive. In fact, there were no walk-on items added to the July 7 meeting.
Also, when a Committee of the Whole (COW) meeting is not held, it is the Presiding Officer's responsibility to set the Board agenda. This is not a new practice- it is a longstanding procedural responsibility that has been exercised by Presiding Officers for many years.
I believe in transparency and making sure the public has access to Board business in advance. That's exactly why this item was placed on the publicly posted agenda, where everyone had the opportunity to review it before the meeting.
From the beginning, I have maintained that DeKalb County must take a thoughtful and deliberate approach to regulating this rapidly evolving industry. While data centers may play an important role in our economic future, their development must be balanced with protecting our neighborhoods, natural resources, infrastructure, and the quality of life of the residents who call DeKalb County home.
Extending the moratorium allows us to continue this important work without approving new applications under regulations that do not adequately address the unique impacts these facilities may have on our communities.
I remain committed to advocating for policies that are informed by community input, guided by sound planning principles, and focused on the long-term interests of DeKalb County residents.
Thank you for your continued engagement, partnership, and commitment as we work together to develop policies that reflect our shared values and vision for DeKalb County.
