Commissioners disavow any "non-disclosure" agreement regarding data centers
Alamance County Commissioners recently disavowed the use of non-disclosure agreements with data center developers, with all members expressing disapproval. This comes after strong public sentiment during hearings led the board to approve a 12-month moratorium on data center development within the county. The decision was unanimous, reflecting widespread public concern.
The Alamance County Board of Commissioners, led by Chairman Kelly Allen, addressed public concerns regarding data center development, particularly the use of non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) by developers. During a recent meeting, Allen, along with Vice Chairman Steve Carter and Commissioner Ed Priola, explicitly stated that the county does not engage in NDAs, with Carter describing such gag orders as unethical and emphasizing the need for transparency.
Commissioner Carter also highlighted the board's responsiveness to public feedback, noting that decisions are often shaped during public hearings. This point was underscored when, following unified public opposition, the commissioners opted for a year-long moratorium on data center development. County Attorney had initially recommended a six-month halt.
The unanimous 5-to-0 decision to enact a 12-month moratorium was explicitly influenced by overwhelming public sentiment. Commissioner Sam Powell remarked that he couldn't recall another public hearing where all comments pointed in the same direction, indicating significant local opposition. This move reflects a broader trend, with Powell noting that communities across the country are taking similar actions.