Wendell adopts data center moratorium through year’s end

The Wendell Board of Commissioners unanimously approved a temporary moratorium on new data center and cryptocurrency mining applications, effective until the end of the year or until updated regulations are established. This decision, made on April 13, followed a public hearing where residents expressed strong support for a cautious approach to development. Town staff and Planning Director Bryan Coates indicated that the moratorium is necessary to update Wendell ’s unified development ordinance, which currently lacks specific definitions or regulations for these types of uses. Residents, including Robert Klein, Ray Hinnant, Jim Parker, and Carol Hinnant, voiced concerns about potential strain on electricity and water systems, increased noise, and the prudent use of limited land amidst the town's population growth. Commissioner Braxton Honeycutt echoed the need for a clear understanding of what data center proposals would entail locally, emphasizing the moratorium as a protective measure for residents. Officials clarified that the action is proactive, as no data center projects have been formally proposed in Wendell, and is part of a broader ordinance update.