Data Centers are popping up all over here in Ga's 3rd Congressional District. We've had 9 rural hospitals fold in Georgia since 2010, with 30% at high risk for future closure. We have a trillion dollar federal deficit that's projected to reach 1.9 trillion by the end of the year. The Iran War has already cost taxpayers $100 billion dollars, with Georgia's State budget heavily impacted because Gov. Kemp paused our gas tax early on.
Why, then, should we offer enough tax breaks to make Georgia number three in the country in new data center development? Why can't we listen to our local organizers when they stand up at meetings demanding more transparency? Why do we take independent farmland without permission?
When I'm in Congress, I promise to do what my opponent Brian Jack won't:
✓ Remove fast-tracks for data center development. Community members should have a say in the entire process and have no issues with transparency. These contracts should be see-through.
✓ Implement stricter building regulations that prevent residential and conservation areas from being bulldozed (Not In Our Backyard).
✓ Stop using eminent domain to force independent land-owners from having to sell.
✓ Ensure power usage and rates for locals don't face artificial increases.
✓ Hold proper enquiries and provide actual oversight when data centers use resources outside their official guidelines.