Before Camden County Says Yes or No to Data Centers Listen to This..
Guest: Betsy McGriff | Host: Alison Shores
Data centers are one of the biggest conversations happening in Camden County right now—but what exactly is a data center, how could one affect the community, and what should residents understand before decisions are made?
On Episode 118 of the Get ’N Your Business Podcast, host Alison Shores sits down with Betsy McGriff, Project Manager with Georgia Tech’s Center for Economic Development Research, for an in-depth conversation about data centers and the questions surrounding their potential development in Camden County.
Betsy breaks down what data centers actually do, explaining that they can range from relatively small facilities supporting businesses and research to massive campuses built for cloud computing and generative AI. She also discusses why demand for data centers is growing as more of our everyday lives—from banking and healthcare to apps, cloud services and artificial intelligence—depend on large-scale computing infrastructure.
The conversation tackles some of the issues Camden County residents have been asking about, including electricity demand, water use, cooling systems, noise, jobs, air quality, infrastructure and potential tax revenue.
They also discuss Camden County's current moratorium on data centers, emphasizing that it represents a pause while the community gathers information and considers what regulations should be in place—not a final decision for or against future development.
A major focus of the episode is the role local planning and ordinances can play. From setbacks and landscaping to sound limits, monitoring requirements and infrastructure responsibilities, Betsy explains how communities can establish standards before considering a potential project.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
What exactly is a data center? Betsy explains the different types—from cloud computing and corporate data storage to research computing and generative AI facilities.
Why are we hearing so much about them now? AI, cloud services, cybersecurity and the growing amount of computing we use every day are driving increased demand.
Electricity and the power grid: The episode examines how large electricity users connect to Georgia's broader electrical system and how utilities plan for future demand.
How much water do data centers use? Betsy discusses cooling technology, including modern closed-loop systems that continuously recirculate cooling fluid rather than constantly drawing new water.
What about noise? Data centers can vary significantly, and the discussion explores how zoning, setbacks, sound buffering and monitoring requirements can address community concerns.
What about jobs? Staffing varies significantly depending on the size and purpose of the facility, with potential roles ranging from data and computer specialists to facility engineers and support personnel.
Could there be economic benefits? Alison and Betsy discuss property-tax revenue, infrastructure costs and why communities should examine both the financial benefits and expenses associated with any major development.
Camden County's moratorium: The current pause provides time to gather information, hear from residents and consider what a future ordinance should require.
Community input matters: Georgia Tech will host listening sessions on October 1, October 15 and October 22 at the College of Coastal Georgia Camden Center, giving residents opportunities to ask questions and provide feedback.
There is no confirmed data center project: Betsy stresses that the discussion is about preparing Camden County before a potential project exists—not approving a specific development already waiting to move forward.
Before forming your opinion on data centers in Camden County, hear the full conversation.
🎧 Watch or listen to Episode 118 of the Get ’N Your Business Podcast, then bring your questions to the upcoming community listening sessions on October 1, October 15 and October 22 at the College of Coastal Georgia Camden Center.
Have questions about power, water, noise, jobs, taxes, infrastructure or development? This is your opportunity to get informed and be part of the conversation.
Like, share and subscribe to the Get ’N Your Business Podcast for more conversations about the issues affecting Camden County.
