Another fast-growing Charlotte suburb OKs data center pause — this time for a year
The Waxhaw Town's Commissioners unanimously enacted a 12-month moratorium on data center development, following strong public opposition citing environmental concerns related to air quality, water consumption, and heat emissions. This proactive measure aims to give officials time to develop specific regulations, as no data center projects have been proposed yet. Waxhaw joins other local governments in the region, including Charlotte, Rowan County, and York County, in implementing temporary bans on data center construction.
The Waxhaw Town's Commissioners in North Carolina have unanimously approved a 12-month moratorium on new data center developments. The decision, made at a recent meeting, comes amidst significant public concern over the potential environmental impact of data centers on the fast-growing Charlotte suburb.
Residents, including Courtney Moneymaker, voiced strong opposition, citing worries about air and water pollution, increased temperatures from heat emissions, and decreased quality of life. Moneymaker, a mother of two, highlighted the devastating effects of water scarcity, drawing parallels to recent hurricane destruction in western North Carolina. Benjamin Levinson also spoke, emphasizing concerns about worsened air quality and visibility due to smog, urging immediate action before any projects are proposed.
Mayor Robert Murray III described the moratorium as a "proactive and preemptive" measure, noting that no data centers have yet been proposed in Waxhaw. The temporary ban, effective until August 10, 2027, will allow town officials to develop appropriate regulations. This action places Waxhaw among other regional governments, such as the City of Charlotte, Rowan County, and York County, that have also implemented temporary bans on data center construction.
While the board will consider an outright ban during this period, Mayor Pro Tem Susanna Wedra noted that state law currently presents challenges for amending relevant code. Data centers are known for high water consumption, with large facilities potentially using up to 5 million gallons daily, comparable to a town of 10,000 to 50,000 people, a significant concern for Waxhaw whose population has more than doubled in 15 years.