Mayor Skip Henderson observes Earth Hour, the Internet reacts

Mayor Skip Henderson shared a lighthearted video in observance of Earth Day Wednesday, April 22, 2026. “I joined in on Earth Hour by flipping the switch and enjoying a full hour of ‘lights out’ for the planet. A great reminder that even a small change can make a big impact,” the mayor wrote on Facebook. The room went dark followed by the comments on his post.

Opponents of a proposed data center in Columbus quickly chimed in on the video. “How about not ruining our environment by allowing a hyperscale data center to be put in the middle of beautiful woodlands!! The damage it will do to the earth, wildlife and waterways cannot be undone. Please vote NO data center!” wrote one commentator. For the record, the mayor only votes if there is a tie between councilors.

“I’d take your commitment to conservation seriously if you were not entertaining the idea of a data center in our rural area,” another person wrote. “This is moronic when you’re already in support of a data center.”

Others sounding off on his video noted he could help in other ways. “Turning off a standard 40-watt fluorescent tube for one hour saves approximately 0.04 kWh of electricity, costing roughly $0.004–$0.01 (less than one cent) depending on local rates. Maybe cutting out government fraud would have more impact!”

Keep Columbus GA Beautiful Commission weighed in offering support for the mayor. “We appreciate you leading by example, Mayor Henderson! Your support helps inspire our community to take action.”