Clarendon County rushes to close zoning loophole as first data center heads to industrial park
Clarendon County Council held an urgent meeting to fast-track a proposed moratorium on new data center applications. The county realized it lacks specific zoning regulations for data centers, classifying them merely as warehouses, which could lead to uncontrolled development without proper review regarding water and power usage or environmental impact.
Clarendon County Council held a specially called meeting, initially intended for property tax reassessments, which pivoted to address an urgent issue of heavy development. The central debate shifted to the impact of data centers in Clarendon County, with the immediate concern being a newly identified gap in the county's zoning codes.
Deric Rush reported that while a data center is expected to locate in the county's industrial park, deemed a positive step, the county is actively seeking to implement checks and balances for future opportunities. Council members realized they lacked specific zoning that distinguishes data centers from generic industrial facilities or warehouses, creating vulnerabilities. This oversight means there are no particular water or power restrictions for data centers, raising fears that developers could secure permits and build facilities without adequate local review, potentially in proximity to residential or agricultural areas.
Clarendon County resident Jocelyn Walker voiced support for the council's expedited action, emphasizing the importance of protecting the county's residents, environment, and agriculture. The Council aims to close this zoning loophole and establish appropriate regulations to ensure future data centers integrate as "good neighbors" within the community. To address this, a data center moratorium was added to the meeting's agenda at the last minute.