Spartanburg County delays vote on data center moratorium
Spartanburg County Council has postponed the final vote on a proposed data center moratorium ordinance until September. The delay aims to allow council members more time to consult experts on data center impacts, following a contentious meeting where two residents were removed amidst heated exchanges over the proposal.
The Spartanburg County Council in South Carolina has decided to postpone the third and final reading of an ordinance that would enact a moratorium on data center development within the county. The vote has been rescheduled for the council's September meeting.
Council members, including Mo Abusaft, stated that the delay is intended to provide additional time for them to consult with experts regarding data centers. The Monday night meeting was marked by significant public engagement, including heated exchanges that led to the removal of two individuals, including resident Carolyn Reed Smith. Smith expressed concerns about potential pollution, urging the council to prioritize human well-being over data.
The decision to delay the vote drew mixed reactions from attendees. The council plans a special safety meeting before the September vote to further learn about data centers, though a date for this meeting has not yet been set.