Measure to temporarily halt new data center approvals in Little Rock deferred until August
Little Rock officials have deferred a proposal to temporarily halt new approvals for large-scale "hyperscale" data centers until August 4. The measure, requested by City Directors Kathy Webb and Capi Peck, aims to pause zoning applications for these facilities, though it would not affect a planned Google data center. The deferral was requested to allow time to work with constituents.
Little Rock, Arkansas - A proposal to impose a temporary halt on new approvals for large-scale "hyperscale" data centers within Little Rock city limits has been deferred until August 4. The measure, originally scheduled for a vote by the Board of Directors on Tuesday evening, was put forward by City Directors Kathy Webb and Capi Peck.
The proposed moratorium specifically targets zoning applications for the largest category of data centers, as defined by recent city regulations. Notably, the measure includes an exemption for a planned Google data center at the Port of Little Rock, meaning its development would not be impacted by the temporary pause. City Director Kathy Webb stated that the deferral was requested by both city staff and constituents supporting the moratorium, to allow more time for collaboration on various issues.