Council passes 18-month data center freeze; talk of data center to EC just rumors, says Best
The Elizabeth City Council unanimously approved an 18-month moratorium on data center applications after residents and officials raised concerns about noise, environmental impacts, utility rates, and electricity and water capacity. City officials said rumors of a proposed data center in Elizabeth City are unfounded, but the pause will give the city time to strengthen its development rules and consider utility agreements.
The Elizabeth City Council unanimously adopted an 18-month moratorium on data center applications following a public hearing. Residents and council members cited concerns about industrial noise, environmental preservation, utility rates, and the potential burden on the city’s electric and water systems.
The moratorium replaced a proposed amendment to the city’s Unified Development Ordinance and will give officials time to refine the rules and explore public utility agreements. Development Services Director Carl Best said there is no current data center proposal, while Mayor Kirk Rivers and City Manager Reginald Goodson emphasized that North Carolina municipalities cannot impose a blanket prohibition on the use. Speakers including Elizabeth City resident Virginia Wasserberg urged stronger ratepayer protections and said private developers should bear development-related costs.