The Rome City Commission is moving forward with plans to develop an ordinance regulating data centers within the city limits, with a draft expected to go before the Planning Commission in December.
The issue was discussed during a recent work session at Rome City Hall, where Mayor Craig McDaniel and commissioners considered using Floyd County’s recently adopted data center ordinance as a starting point for developing local regulations.
Mayor Jim Bojo opened the discussion by introducing the county’s ordinance and expressing support for using it as a model. He also indicated that the city could make changes to address Rome’s specific needs.
Commissioner Fisher clarified that the goal is to place a proposed ordinance on the Planning Commission’s December 2026 agenda. That timeline would allow the City Commission to consider the measure later that month.
During the discussion, commissioners shared their concerns and perspectives regarding data centers and the potential need for regulations governing their development.
By consensus, the commission agreed to begin drafting an ordinance for review by the Planning Commission in December. Commissioners were also asked to submit their individual concerns to the city’s planning director, who will use that feedback when developing the proposal.
No ordinance was approved during the work session. The next step is to prepare a draft for review, giving city officials an opportunity to consider what restrictions or requirements may be appropriate for future data center projects in Rome.
