Blount County Board of Commissioners Workshop agenda has moratoriums, ambulances and ALPR cameras on agenda
The Blount County Board of Commissioners is scheduled to consider a 12-month moratorium on applications for AI data centers while the county conducts a planning and development-impact study. The proposal would also coordinate with Alcoa and Maryville, while the Planning Commission has already approved zoning amendments defining and restricting such facilities, subject to a future public hearing.
The Blount County Board of Commissioners’ workshop agenda includes a proposed 12-month pause on applications for AI data centers and similar facilities. Sponsored by commissioners Keenan Sudderth, Shannon Effler and Robert Simerly, the measure would direct Blount County Development Services to conduct a comprehensive planning and development-impact study and coordinate with the cities of Alcoa and Maryville.
The study would examine whether zoning amendments previously reviewed by the Planning Commission adequately address concerns about data center locations and operations. The Planning Commission approved an amendment on Sept. 24 creating definitions and utility-related restrictions for the facilities, but the amendment still requires a public hearing and formal authorization by the county commission. The board is also considering a separate moratorium on large subdivisions, apartments and multifamily developments.