Georgia Today: North Georgia Floods, Zoo Atlanta Rhino Loss, and Data Center Moratorium Proposals

“All things related to data centers will be on the table,” Governor-elect Keisha Lance Bottoms said while addressing the future of Georgia’s technological infrastructure.

The statement, reported by GPB, suggests the state may change how it manages the rapid expansion of massive computing facilities. As Bottoms prepares to take office following last week’s election, her campaign proposal to implement a moratorium on new data center construction has moved from a political platform to a looming legislative reality.

McCaysville flash flood: 18-ft crest sweeps North Georgia | FOX 5 News

The debate centers on the economic and environmental footprint of these facilities. While data centers drive high-tech growth, they also demand immense amounts of electricity and land.

Two years ago, the state legislature attempted to pause sales tax breaks on equipment for these centers, but Governor Brian Kemp vetoed the bill, arguing such a move would undermine business interests. Recent attempts by the legislature to rein in the industry also failed to pass.

With Democrats now holding a narrow majority in the state House and winning every statewide office, the political environment in January may give Bottoms the influence needed to revisit state tax incentives for the sector.

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While political battles brew in Atlanta, North Georgia is grappling with the physical aftermath of heavy flooding. In the town of McCaysville, the destruction of downtown businesses, city buildings, and dozens of homes has left a community in need of reconstruction.

Mayor Terry Arp noted on Monday that the state is currently assisting with the removal of mud and debris from major roadways. Hundreds of volunteers traveling from North Carolina and Tennessee have joined local workers to help with the cleanup effort.

“I don’t know, you know, and can’t tell you who all’s been here. There’s just been so many people,” Arp said.

Georgia Today: North Georgia Floods, Zoo Atlanta Rhino Loss, and Data Center Moratorium Proposals

The Georgia Emergency Management Agency is currently assessing the total damage to determine the scale of financial assistance required. For residents, the immediate concerns remain practical: a 6 p.m. curfew is still in effect, and a boil water advisory remains active while the town’s water system undergoes testing throughout the week.

The community is also mourning an animal death at Zoo Atlanta. Zuri, a two-year-old southern white rhinoceros, died last Friday after a rapid decline in health. Zuri held a special place in the institution’s history as the first southern white rhino ever born at the zoo, arriving on Christmas Eve in 2023.

Cleanup continues after flooding devastates parts of North Georgia

Zoo officials reported that blood tests revealed severe anemia. Despite an emergency blood transfusion, the young rhino could not be saved. The exact cause of death remains under investigation.

The week also saw a moment of reflection for the environmental community. The Captain Planet Foundation held its annual awards ceremony in Cobb County, marking the first major gathering for the organization since the death of its founder, Ted Turner, in May.

Honorees included George McKerrow, a co-founder of the Montana Grill restaurant chain, who was recognized for building a sustainable bison market and reducing microplastics. Peter Collin, founder of Live Nation Atlanta, was also honored for implementing earth-friendly practices within the music touring industry.