Anniston Council Approves Data Center Moratorium, CDBG Plan and Budget Amendment
The Anniston City Council approved a temporary 12-month moratorium on new data center developments. This pause will allow the Anniston Planning Commission to develop specific zoning and development regulations to address potential impacts like electrical demand, water capacity, and noise. The moratorium does not affect existing data center businesses.
The Anniston City Council, Alabama, unanimously approved a 12-month temporary moratorium on new data center developments during its Aug. 18 meeting. The decision was based on a recommendation from the Anniston Planning Commission, which noted that current zoning and development regulations do not adequately address the potential impacts of large-scale data centers. These impacts include concerns related to electrical demand, water and wastewater capacity, stormwater management, transportation, emergency services, noise, lighting, and compatibility with residential areas.
Under the resolution, the city will temporarily halt the issuance of permits, approvals, and licenses for new data centers. The Planning Commission has been tasked with developing and presenting recommendations for new regulations within six months. The moratorium is intended to allow time for comprehensive planning, and it does not affect existing data center businesses unless they cease operations for 60 days or let their business license expire.
The council also addressed other city matters, including community development funding, budget amendments, and board appointments during the work session and regular meeting.