Walker County commissioners have extended the county’s moratorium on new data center development for 180 days. The action means the county will not consider new data center projects until February of 2027. During the moratorium, officials will not accept applications for new data centers, including rezoning requests, building permits, land disturbance permits, business licenses, certificates of occupancy or other development approvals. County leaders say the pause will give them additional time to evaluate regulations as demand for data centers continues to grow because of artificial intelligence, cloud computing, data storage and telecommunications services.
The Georgia Department of Agriculture is warning farmers to watch out for sophisticated online equipment scams. Investigators say criminals are using artificial intelligence to create fake websites that look like legitimate farm equipment dealerships. Victims are lured by low prices, then asked to wire money for tractors or other equipment that never arrives. Agriculture Commissioner Tyler Harper urges buyers to verify dealerships independently and, whenever possible, inspect equipment and complete purchases in person before making payment.
The Walker County Animal Shelter is encouraging families to take advantage of reduced adoption fees during the BISSELL Pet Foundation’s adoption event. Adult dogs and cats more than four months old can be adopted for free, while puppies and kittens are just 25 dollars. Shelter staff say they’re hoping to find loving homes for as many animals as possible. The shelter is open today and tomorrow from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. for anyone looking to meet a new best friend.
One felony arrest in Walker County on Wednesday. 20-year-old Tyree Mykael Williams was charged with fraudulent use of a credit card, possession of a firearm or knife during the commission of a crime and possession of less than an ounce of marijuana. You can find the complete arrest report, updated daily at DiscoverWalker.com.