Georgia NOW News for Tuesday July 22, 2026

A proposed data center campus in South Georgia is drawing growing opposition, even though no formal application has been filed. Last year, Lowndes County approved the rezoning of more than 700 acres near Valdosta for light manufacturing. Residents have since formed a grassroots group with more than 1,200 members, raising concerns about water use, energy demand, noise and the potential for sinkholes while calling for greater transparency and stronger local regulations. Georgia drivers are paying more at the pump as tensions in the Middle East push oil prices higher. Gas prices across the state have climbed nearly 20% over the past week, with economists warning the increase could force families to cut back on other spending, particularly in metro Atlanta where many residents rely on their vehicles every day. For news anytime, visit HearGeorgiaNow.com. #HearGeorgiaNow #GeorgiaNews #DataCenters #SouthGeorgia #Valdosta #GasPrices #MiddleEast #Energy #LowndesCounty #GeorgiaEconomy