Proposal to pump the breaks on Little Rock data centers fails to pass
A proposal for an 18-month moratorium on data center development in Little Rock, Arkansas, including a project by Google at the port, failed to pass after hours of public comment and a city board vote. Directors who supported the pause expressed disappointment but vowed to continue their efforts.
After nearly three hours of public comment, the Little Rock City Board voted on a proposal to enact an 18-month moratorium on new data center projects in the city. The vote failed, with Directors Web, Lewis, and Miller voting in favor, and Directors Hines, Computer, Pack, and Adcock voting against. Directors Antwon Phillips and Ken Richardson were absent, resulting in a 3-4 vote, short of the six votes needed for passage.
The proposal aimed to temporarily pause data center construction, including a previously proposed project spearheaded by Google at the Port of Little Rock. The meeting saw significant public engagement, with many attendees voicing concerns about potential risks associated with data centers.
Upon the mayor's adjournment, the crowd reacted with boos and groans. Director Kathy Webb, who introduced the proposal, expressed disappointment with the outcome but affirmed that she and her fellow directors would continue to advocate for restrictions on data center development.