Council Approves Data Center Moratorium
The Whiteville City Council unanimously approved a one-year moratorium on new data center developments to allow staff time to research their impacts on local infrastructure. The decision was made following concerns about noise pollution, strain on the electric grid, and excessive water usage. One resident, Cecil Nance, spoke against the moratorium, highlighting the potential economic benefits and job creation from data centers.
The Whiteville City Council in North Carolina has unanimously enacted a one-year moratorium on new data center developments within the city. City Planner Robert Lewis recommended the pause to allow staff to gather more information about data center operations and their potential impacts on local infrastructure, citing a lack of current knowledge.
The decision comes amidst growing demand for data centers driven by advancements in artificial intelligence and cloud storage, but also increasing concerns from critics. These concerns include noise pollution, strain on the local electric grid, and excessive water consumption by the facilities.
During a public hearing, resident Cecil Nance urged the council to vote against the moratorium. Nance argued that data centers could bring significant economic benefits, including hundreds of high-wage IT jobs and millions in property tax revenue. He cautioned that enacting a moratorium without a specific funding request could disadvantage the community, but the council proceeded with the unanimous vote.