Spring Hope passes data center moratorium

The Spring Hope Board of Commissioners in North Carolina unanimously approved a one-year moratorium on data center development within its town limits and extraterritorial jurisdiction. Mayor Kyle Pritchard cited concerns over the facilities' intense energy use and limited long-term job prospects for local residents, stating that data centers would primarily rely on specialized contractors and automated operations, leading to higher energy rates without substantial local employment benefits. Town Manager Jonathan Allen presented the resolution, noting it aligns with actions taken by other local governments in eastern and central North Carolina to protect citizens. Allen indicated that state lawmakers might address data center development in the upcoming short session, and commissioners could extend the moratorium beyond one year if state-level safeguards are not established. The article also detailed other actions taken by the board, including addressing a resident's complaint about property code violations, approving an amendment to the town's subdivision ordinance to classify developments with more than three lots as "major subdivisions" requiring a three-phase approval process, and discussions regarding the enforcement of a commercial building ordinance. Additionally, commissioners approved a budget amendment for a new police car and tabled another for payroll adjustments. A public meet-and-greet for new Town Manager Jonathan Allen was also announced.