Pulaski County debates on building Wrightsville data center

Pulaski County meetings have become contentious due to debates over a proposed data center near Wrightsville, Arkansas. On Tuesday night, a committee advanced a less restrictive moratorium proposal, which will allow the project to move forward, to the dismay of local residents and some county officials.

Community members who attended the meeting had hoped for a stricter ordinance to halt the project but expressed anger and frustration after the less restrictive proposal passed. Neighbors in Wrightsville raised concerns about transparency and criticized comments from Quorum Court members regarding the moratorium and potential legal risks for the county. Justice of the Peace Julie Blackwood, who sponsored an initial, stricter ordinance, emphasized her commitment to her constituents and the need for stronger protections against the data center's impact. She argued that watering down the ordinance fails to provide the necessary safeguards for the community.

Conversely, Diane Curry, who sponsored the passed ordinance, stated that her version reduces potential legal liability for the county and avoids unintended consequences of preventing a project for which permits have already been granted. The debate highlights a conflict between developers, community concerns, and county liability. The next meeting regarding data centers in Pulaski County is scheduled for July 23rd before the planning commission in Little Rock.