Guilford County commissioners hear public input on proposed data centers
Guilford County commissioners heard public comments on a proposed moratorium for new data center projects. The board delayed a decision on a possible 180-day pause until its Nov. 5 meeting, while some residents called for a longer moratorium and others urged the county to remain competitive.
Guilford County commissioners held a public hearing on whether to temporarily halt new data center projects and develop rules governing future facilities. Residents raised concerns about potential air, water and noise pollution and urged the county to take more time to study the effects and build community protections.
Commissioners have discussed a 180-day moratorium, but some speakers called for a 32-month pause, arguing that six months would not be enough to develop effective safeguards. Other residents opposed a lengthy delay because it could cause Guilford County to lose prospective projects. The board unanimously postponed action on the moratorium until its Nov. 5 meeting.