Public Hearing Monday on Data Centers

Public Hearing Monday on Data Centers

News ClipColumbus County News·Columbus County, NC·10/2/2026

Columbus County commissioners are scheduled to hear public comments on a proposed 90-day moratorium on data center development. The pause would give county staff time to study infrastructure, farmland and other impacts, while Whiteville has already approved a similar moratorium.

moratoriumgovernmentelectricitywaterenvironmental
Gov: Columbus County Board of Commissioners, City of Whiteville

Columbus County commissioners will hear public comments Monday on a proposed 90-day pause on data center development. The moratorium could be extended and is intended to give county staff additional time to research the facilities and their potential effects.

Critics cited concerns about data centers placing strain on local power and water systems and contributing to farmland development. Commissioners also noted that approved projects could generate substantial equipment and property tax revenue for the county. Whiteville has already enacted a moratorium for the same research purpose.