HARLEM, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) – Columbia County has approved a memorandum of understanding for a new data center project that officials say could eventually help eliminate a portion of homeowners’ property tax bills. The Economic Development Authority of Columbia County approved the agreement for the project, representing a commitment of at least $17 billion — one of the largest private investments in county history. The agreement is with Kinetic Infrastructure Solutions, a subsidiary of Alphabet Inc., Google’s parent company. The approval builds on county officials’ broader push to use data center investment to fund property tax relief for homeowners. County Commission Chairman Doug Duncan has said the county’s goal in attracting data centers is to eliminate its share of property taxes, which currently make up 40% of Columbia County’s total budget. Columbia County’s first-ever hospital will open its doors for patients on Wednesday. That effort centers on House Bill 439, a measure written by Columbia County that would allow county governments to set aside money for property tax relief. Voters will decide whether to authorize its use in a November referendum. “This is a defining opportunity for Columbia County,” said Rick Evans, chairman of the Economic Development Authority of Columbia County. “An investment on this scale means lasting strength for our community, and we have structured it so the value it creates stays right here at home. We’re proud to advance it in coordination…
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