Little Rock Mayor pushes for stronger data center regulations

Little Rock, Arkansas Mayor Frank Scott Jr. announced on Tuesday a proposed ordinance designed to bolster regulations concerning data centers within the city. Presented to the City's Board of Directors during a meeting, the proposal is framed as a balanced strategy incorporating resident feedback, environmental safeguards, and the city's commitment to sustainable economic growth.

The key provisions of the ordinance include restricting large-scale data centers to industrial-zoned areas, mandating buffer zones to separate these facilities from non-industrial properties. The Mayor indicated that the plan would augment existing regulatory frameworks upheld by entities such as the Arkansas Public Service Commission and the Arkansas Department of Environmental Quality. The proposal also specifically addresses concerns related to water usage, noise, and energy consumption.

Mayor Scott urged the board to adopt the new standards, citing substantial public interest in guidelines that protect the safety and welfare of Little Rock residents. He emphasized the city's obligation to protect natural resources and ensure that tech projects are regulated in an environmentally responsible and transparent manner. The ordinance is scheduled for formal introduction to the Board for consideration on June 2, 2026.