Greensboro leaders discuss proposed data center moratorium at public hearing
Greensboro leaders held a public hearing to discuss a proposed 120-day moratorium on data center applications. Residents strongly opposed data centers, citing concerns about water usage, noise, and power bills, and many advocated for a longer moratorium. The Greensboro City Council is considering the ordinance.
The Greensboro City Council held a public hearing regarding a proposed 120-day moratorium on data center applications, attracting over 40 speakers. Residents voiced strong opposition to data centers in Greensboro, citing concerns over water usage, noise pollution, and potential impacts on electricity rates and power bills. Many attendees advocated for a significantly longer moratorium, with some requesting 32 months instead of the proposed 120 days.
The public hearing, which lasted nearly two hours, saw large rounds of applause for speakers opposing data centers. Due to time constraints, Mayor announced that the discussion would reconvene the following day at 5:30 for those who could not be heard.
The report also noted that commissioners in Alamance and Yadkin counties were holding their own public hearings concerning data center moratoriums. Alamance County's proposed moratorium specifically targets larger-scale data centers and, if approved, could be in effect until February 17th of the following year. Yadkin County commissioners are considering a one-year data center moratorium.