Apex Approves One-Year Moratorium on Data Centers

Apex, North Carolina, has enacted a one-year moratorium on data center development, following a unanimous vote by the Town Council. This temporary ban, effective until April 27, 2027, aims to provide town officials with sufficient time to research and establish comprehensive regulations for data centers and related uses like cryptocurrency mining. The decision comes in the wake of significant resident opposition to a proposed data center project in New Hill, developed by Natelli Investments, which was ultimately withdrawn in early March. Residents and advocacy groups, such as the Protect Wake County Coalition led by Michelle Hofner O’Connor, have voiced strong concerns regarding potential impacts on air quality, noise pollution, and energy and water consumption. Council members, including Shane Reese and Sue Mu, emphasized their commitment to protecting the town's resources and residents. They anticipate developing a robust unified development ordinance (UDO) during this period. While residents expressed "cautious optimism," some, like New Hill resident Dawn Cozzolino, were more definitive, advocating for no data centers in Wake County ever, regardless of new regulations. Apex joins other jurisdictions, such as Chatham County, in implementing such development pauses.