Board votes down 18-month pause on hyperscale data centers in Little Rock
The Little Rock Board of Directors rejected a proposed 18-month moratorium on new hyperscale data centers, despite concerns raised by Director Kathy Webb and residents. This decision allows the city's current regulations to remain in effect, impacting Google's proposed project. The vote reflects ongoing debate between economic development and environmental/community impact.
The Little Rock Board of Directors voted against a proposed 18-month moratorium on new hyperscale data centers, effectively rejecting an effort to pause development in the city. This decision leaves Little Rock's existing data center regulations in place and impacts a proposed project by Google at the Port of Little Rock.
The proposal, sponsored by Director Kathy Webb, aimed to temporarily halt new hyperscale data center projects. Webb advocated for a study into the potential impacts of these developments on water resources, emergency services, and surrounding neighborhoods, arguing that the city had moved too quickly in approving a previous data center ordinance. She and some residents expressed concerns about "unintended consequences" observed in other regions and emphasized the importance of protecting natural resources.
Conversely, Jay Cheshire, representing the Little Rock Regional Chamber, testified in support of data center development, highlighting the economic benefits. He presented testimony from the Mayor of Pryor, Oklahoma, where Google's presence has reportedly transformed the local economy over 15 years. Despite the rejection of the new moratorium, current city regulations, including one that excludes Google's proposed project, remain in effect. Meanwhile, Pulaski County has not yet passed a data center moratorium.