Development threats: data centers, eminent domain, zoning fights
Massive data center boom continues with OpenAI $20B facility in Effingham (secretive deal, NDA, zoning loopholes, resource strain), Newton County halt, Cobb County moratorium expiring, Foxborough community mobilizes, Augusta moratorium extended. Georgia Power breaks ground on natural gas expansion at Plant Bowen (air pollution concerns, legal challenge). Marietta approves 136-home development in floodplain. New: Georgia DOT begins pursuing NEPA review authority, potentially reducing federal environmental oversight on highway projects.
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Updated Aug 3, 2026