Update & Next Steps: Protect Tallulah Lake

Hey Everyone!

Thank you so much for supporting the effort to stop Demorest from condemning private property and constructing a 10‑acre water treatment plant on Lake Tallulah! Your voices matter, and I want to share a few important updates.

Public Hearing – September 1st

The public hearing is 7 PM on September 1st at: 250 Alabama Street, Demorest, GA 30535

If you can attend, your presence will make a difference. If you cannot, please call the city manager at 706‑778‑4202 and state your opposition to the proposed water plant. Or use the contact decision makers link on the change.org petition to email them! 

City Manager Interview

Here is an interview with Demorest’s city manager from January 2026: https://www.facebook.com/reel/1229460605761327

In this interview, he states the project is intended to serve the next 75–100 years. Under Georgia Senate Bill 86 (2006), eminent domain cannot be used for long‑term expansion, future growth, or economic development. A 100‑year plan does not meet the legal definition of public necessity.

Update: I needed to provide a quick update and a correction. A reporter let me know that Habersham did pass a Unified Development Ordinance, and it allows closed loop data centers. But here’s what hasn’t changed: Demorest still supplies water to Habersham, Banks and Hall Counties, and their long term plan is to extract up to 5 million gallons a day from Tallulah Lake for sale. No matter what, Rabun County should get a say on Rabun County land to represent their citizens.

Note: Original posts stated (paraphrased): At the same time, Habersham County is currently undergoing zoning discussions for data centers." I adjusted the language based on the update I received on 8/19/26. Thank you!

Keep Sharing the Petition!

Please continue sharing the petition with friends, neighbors, and anyone who cares about Lake Tallulah, private property rights, and responsible water management.

Thank you again for standing together for Tallulah Lake!