Candidate Question 3: Data Centers in Davidson County
Candidates for the Davidson County Board of Commissioners outlined how they would evaluate a potential data center, citing concerns about electricity and water use, noise, environmental impacts, infrastructure costs and tax benefits. The county is considering zoning provisions for data centers, while a proposed moratorium failed on a 3-3 vote in August.
Candidates responding to Davidson Local’s questionnaire described differing approaches to a potential data center in Davidson County. Several called for transparency, public participation, infrastructure and environmental reviews, and an assessment of jobs, tax revenue and taxpayer costs before any project is considered. Others expressed opposition to large hyperscale facilities because of their electricity demand, cooling-water needs, noise and limited permanent employment.
The Davidson County Board of Commissioners has begun discussing data center zoning rules because existing ordinances largely treat such facilities as warehouses. A proposed moratorium intended to provide time to study the issue and develop regulations failed on a 3-3 vote during an Aug. 24 meeting. Candidates said future decisions should account for property rights, neighborhood compatibility, utility demands, environmental effects and the county’s legal authority.