Rowan County Commission passes data center moratorium

The Rowan County Commission in North Carolina unanimously enacted a one-year moratorium on new data center developments, a decision that followed a public input session where nearly 30 concerned neighbors voiced their opposition. Residents specifically targeted an ongoing 400-acre construction project near Long Ferry Road, which they lament was once farmland and proceeded without their input. County Commission Chairman Greg Edds clarified during the meeting that state law prevents the current Long Ferry Road project from being included in the newly approved moratorium, a point that left many neighbors displeased. Edds attempted to allay fears by stating that the ongoing construction is for a power substation supporting various developments, and that future projects would be held accountable for power costs, water consumption, and pollution. However, Edds' assurances did not satisfy the community, who remained skeptical after over an hour of public comment. Shannon Solomon, an organizer for the protestors, stated that residents are forming a "bipartisan watch dog group" and will continue to advocate for a moratorium specifically on the Long Ferry Road project, vowing that they "are not going away." The commission's vote to approve the moratorium reflects an official response to citizen concerns, yet it highlights a disconnect with the community regarding the grandfathered-in project that continues to be a source of significant local contention.