Proposed Mobile County data center sparks frustration as residents press commissioners for answers
Residents in Mobile County, Alabama, expressed frustration at a County Commission meeting over a proposed data center project in Northern Mobile County. Concerns include water use, power demand, noise, environmental impact, and property values. Commissioners stated they lack zoning authority in unincorporated areas to stop the project, despite a petition from residents to delay it.
Residents in Northern Mobile County, Alabama, voiced strong opposition to a proposed data center project during a Mobile County Commission meeting, demanding answers about the development.
The facility, planned for a 650-acre industrial parcel off Highway 43 in Calvert, has sparked concerns among locals like Linda Peru and Lucille Kimble-Foster regarding its potential impact on water use, power demand, noise, the environment, and property values. Residents presented a petition with over 360 signatures, urging the county to delay the project to allow for further research into its community impact.
However, Mobile County Commissioner Randall Dueitt and other commissioners clarified that the county lacks zoning authority in unincorporated areas, leaving them unable to halt or delay the project under Alabama Law. Commissioner Dueitt expressed his preference against "home rule" and extensive zoning. Despite the county's limited power, the project by Beacon must still fulfill state and federal environmental permitting requirements to proceed. Beacon has previously indicated it is taking measures to minimize adverse effects on neighboring communities.