Harpersville begins data center study during six-month moratorium
Harpersville, Alabama, has enacted a six-month moratorium on data center development to proactively study the industry's potential impacts. Town leaders, including Mayor Theoangelo Perkins, stated that no developers have approached them yet, but they want to be prepared after nearby communities received proposals. Public informational sessions are being held to educate residents and gather feedback on economic and infrastructure effects.
Harpersville, Alabama, has adopted a six-month moratorium on data center development, following a recommendation from its Planning and Zoning Board. The Town Council's decision, made on August 3, aims to allow local officials and boards time to study the potential economic and infrastructure effects of data centers before any proposals are submitted.
Mayor Theoangelo Perkins emphasized the proactive nature of the moratorium, noting that while no developers have contacted Harpersville directly, neighboring communities like Wilsonville, Westover, and Childersburg have received interest. The town held its first informational session for residents at the Harpersville Community Center, with future discussions expected to focus on energy and environmental issues. Perkins stressed the importance of public involvement, with plans for monthly sessions and a 30-day public comment period.
Steve Ammons, president and CEO of the Birmingham Business Alliance, spoke about the potential benefits of data centers, such as improving digital services and supporting research, but also highlighted concerns including water usage, noise, power consumption, and land requirements. He praised Harpersville leaders for their thorough approach. Sheila McNeil, a candidate for the Alabama Public Service Commission’s Place 2 seat, called for meaningful community input as data center proposals become more prevalent across the state.