Farmville board unanimously approves 12-month moratorium on data centers

The Farmville Board of Commissioners in North Carolina unanimously enacted a 12-month moratorium on data center development, prompted by a February economic development presentation from East Energy Renewals. Although East Energy Renewals has not submitted a formal proposal for a data center in the Farmville Industrial Park, which spans parts of Pitt and Greene Counties, the discussion sparked considerable opposition from local residents.

Mayor Alex Joyner explained that the moratorium will provide town staff with time to gather information on the potential community impacts of data centers. This research is intended to inform the drafting of an ordinance that will address the unique land use, infrastructure, environmental, and operational aspects of such developments. Town Manager Justin Oakes indicated that the moratorium could be extended if necessary, though a proposed 24-month duration was deemed too risky due to potential litigation.

Residents, including Cheryl Patterson, Shelia Turnage, Jessica Mercer, Renee Ayers, and Steven Hardy-Braz, expressed strong concerns at the board meeting. They cited issues such as noise pollution, excessive water and electricity usage that could inflate utility rates, and the importance of establishing a decommissioning fund for future data centers. Questions were also raised about the efficacy of EPA regulations, the allocation of water resources for existing residents, and the broader challenges of managing growth while balancing potential revenue with community well-being.