Walterboro, South Carolina, is known for its serene, small-town charm, vibrant local community, and stunning natural beauty. We are known as “the front porch of the Lowcountry.” However, this cherished tranquility is under threat as plans for a massive data center development loom over our town. This development presents numerous concerns that could drastically alter the character and environment of Walterboro.

One of the primary concerns is environmental. The proposed site is only 20 miles away from our beloved ACE Basin! Data centers are notorious for their enormous energy consumption, often relying on non-renewable energy sources. The increased carbon footprint could adversely affect our local environment, damaging the ecosystems that thrive here. Furthermore, the construction and operation of such facilities often lead to significant water usage and waste heat emission, which can disrupt local waterways and increase temperatures in surrounding areas.

Additionally, there is the issue of noise and infrastructure strain. The construction phase alone could lead to noise pollution, disrupting daily life for residents. Once operational, the data center will significantly increase traffic, placing a strain on local roads and possibly requiring costly infrastructure upgrades—expenses likely to fall on the community rather than the developers.

There is also concern that the loud noise will disturb the animals at our shelter, located less than 1.5 miles away.

Beyond environmental and infrastructural concerns, there's a threat to property values. The presence of an industrial-scale facility can drive down nearby property values, negatively impacting those who have invested in building their lives and businesses in Walterboro.

Instead of allowing this potentially detrimental development, we urge local officials and community leaders to explore alternative avenues for economic growth that align with our community’s values and long-term sustainability goals. We propose considering eco-friendly developments or initiatives that would enhance rather than compromise our local resources.

We call on the residents of Walterboro and surrounding areas, as well as environmental and civic organizations, to join us in this fight. Let us raise our voices to protect our community, safeguard our environment, and preserve the quality of life unique to Walterboro. Your support in signing will be a crucial step in ensuring this development does not proceed. Stand with us to keep Walterboro the town we love.