Prichard council considering moratorium on data centers
The Prichard City Council is considering a 480-day moratorium on new data center permits following public opposition to a proposed $93 million data center by Edge to Energy. Council President Traci Hale introduced the resolution, signaling that the city is not a welcome space for data centers for now. This debate reflects broader discussions about data center development across Alabama, including among gubernatorial candidates.
Prichard City Council President Traci Hale is pushing for a 480-day moratorium on new data center permits in the city of Prichard, Alabama. Hale introduced a resolution for the temporary ban, citing that neighbors do not want data centers in their community. The debate centers on a proposed $93 million data center by Edge to Energy on Telegraph Road, which the company claims would create 20 jobs paying over $70,000 a year.
The City Council Attorney stated that while they are not permanently shutting the door on data centers, the council is signaling that Prichard is not a welcome space for such developments at this time. The council did not vote on the resolution last night, with a decision expected next week.
This local development in Prichard is part of a larger discussion across Alabama regarding data center development, which has become an issue in the gubernatorial race. Gubernatorial candidates Senator Tommy Tuberville and former Senator Doug Jones have offered differing views on the benefits and concerns surrounding the rapid growth of this industry in the state, acknowledging its potential for life-changing impacts in rural communities.