Jefferson County Considers Moratorium on Data Centers Amid Regulatory Review
The Jefferson County Commission is considering a formal moratorium on hyperscale data center development in unincorporated areas until new regulations are drafted. While a "de facto moratorium" is already in place due to lacking a land use plan, some commissioners want a clear, formal pause. County staff are working on a holistic ordinance to address widespread concerns.
The Jefferson County Commission is poised to address public concerns regarding hyperscale data center development in unincorporated parts of the county. County Attorney Theo Lawson is preparing guidance for commissioners to clarify that data centers will not be approved until comprehensive regulations are established. Developmental Services Director Josh Johnson presented an update on his department's efforts to draft a holistic ordinance, acknowledging the wide range of complaints associated with data centers.
Commission President Jimmie Stephens proposed enacting a formal moratorium, a motion immediately seconded by Commissioner Lashunda Scales. This initiative comes despite County Manager Cal Markert's assertion that a "de facto moratorium" already exists, as the county's land use plan needs updating to accommodate data centers. Stephens and Scales emphasized the need for an explicit moratorium to provide clarity while regulations are being developed.
The discussion expanded beyond data centers to include broader heavy industrial development, with Commissioners Joe Knight and Mike Bolin raising concerns about potential impacts on the JeffMet McCalla industrial park and U.S. Steel expansion. Lawson reassured the commission that no data center applications are currently slated, presenting a "great opportunity" to develop appropriate regulations concerning location and resources. He emphasized ensuring citizens understand that new data centers will not proceed in unincorporated Jefferson County until a necessary framework is in place. The commission plans to consider Lawson's prepared recommendations at an upcoming meeting.