Clarendon OKs 6-month pause on data centers as residents push for more info on Project 59

News ClipThe Sumter Item·Clarendon County, SC·9/18/2026

Clarendon County Council unanimously approved a six-month moratorium on data center development. The decision followed a tense meeting where residents raised concerns about a proposed data center, identified as Project 59, specifically regarding its potential impact on water, electricity, and the environment.

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Gov: Clarendon County Council

The Clarendon County Council unanimously approved a six-month moratorium on data center developments following a contentious meeting on Monday, Sept. 14. Residents expressed significant concerns regarding a proposed data center, known as Project 59, and its potential impact on local resources.

Key issues raised by the community included the strain on existing water and electricity infrastructure, as well as broader environmental implications. The discussion highlighted questions about the county's regulatory authority over such large-scale projects.

The approval of the temporary pause indicates the Council's response to community pressure and its intention to gather more information before proceeding with further data center developments.