Pocomoke City Introduces Potential Data Center Moratorium
Pocomoke City officials have proposed a temporary moratorium on data centers, citing concerns over energy and water consumption and limited job creation. This move aligns with similar actions by Worcester County, which already has a moratorium in effect. If adopted, the moratorium would prevent the planning and zoning department from processing data center applications for approximately a year.
Pocomoke City officials, during a September 8th mayor and council meeting, introduced a proposal for a moratorium on data centers. This action reflects a broader trend of local resistance to computing infrastructure, also seen in Worcester County.
Officials, including Eric Fiori and Worcester County Board of Commissioners President Ted Elder, voiced concerns primarily regarding the high energy and water consumption of data centers, alongside their perceived minimal job creation and limited tax benefits compared to other industrial businesses. Elder specifically highlighted the inadequacy of the existing power grid and potential water usage conflicts with farming irrigation and residential supply.
If adopted, the proposed moratorium would immediately halt the planning and zoning department's acceptance and processing of data center applications for about a year, with provisions for modification or extension. While Worcester County already has its own moratorium, Pocomoke City, with its independent board of zoning, is pursuing its separate regulatory measure.