Pocomoke City Introduced Potential Moratorium On Data Centers
Pocomoke City officials have proposed a one-year moratorium on data centers due to concerns about high energy and water consumption. This move follows a similar moratorium already in place in Worcester County, with officials discussing increased protections and potential ballot initiatives. The proposed moratorium would halt the processing of new data center applications in Pocomoke City.
Pocomoke City officials recently introduced a proposal for a one-year moratorium on data center development, mirroring concerns previously raised in Worcester County. During a mayor and council meeting, officials cited significant worries regarding the intensive energy and water consumption of data centers. One unnamed official highlighted that data centers employ few people, consume vast resources, and offer limited tax benefits compared to other industrial businesses.
The proposed moratorium would prevent the Pocomoke City Planning and Zoning Department from accepting or processing new data center applications for its duration. Officials emphasized that the local power grid is insufficient to meet the required energy demands, and the high water usage could negatively impact agricultural irrigation and the general water supply for residents.
Pocomoke City's council will continue discussions on the temporary measure, which, if adopted, would take immediate effect and could be modified or extended. This move comes as Worcester County already has a one-year moratorium in place, with some county officials advocating for increased protections or even a ballot initiative on the issue.