Planning Commission Recommends City Approve Temporary Moratorium On Data Centers

The Paris Municipal Regional Planning Commission and the Board of Zoning Appeals met to discuss several agenda items, prominently a proposed temporary moratorium on data center development within Paris city limits. Chairman Richard Edwards highlighted ongoing concerns about data centers nationally, particularly regarding their substantial power usage, which can strain local utility companies and potentially require intervention from TVA. City officials in Paris have reported receiving numerous calls from the public, all expressing opposition to data center development.

Community Development Director Jessica Crouch stated that the city has recently received interest from a data center developer but currently lacks specific guidelines. Consequently, city staff are recommending a proactive temporary moratorium to allow time for the development of necessary regulations. BPU Director Terry Wimberley supports this temporary pause to establish clear guidelines. The Planning Commission has referred its recommendation for the moratorium to the City Commission for final approval.