‘We were shocked’: Spartanburg County residents criticize handling of data center discussions

Spartanburg County Council has initiated the process for a potential one-year moratorium on data center developments, a move that comes after months of public debate regarding the impact of such projects on local water resources, infrastructure, and quality of life. During its Monday night meeting, the council voted to authorize the county manager and attorney to draft the moratorium, marking the first step in its consideration.

The primary concern for many residents, however, is not the moratorium itself but the perceived lack of transparency in how the decision was handled. Residents, including Eric Allison, expressed shock that the data center discussion occurred during an executive session, as it was not explicitly listed on the publicly posted agenda. FOX Carolina confirmed that the agenda did not directly reference data centers or a moratorium.

Council member Jessica Coker stated that agendas do not require specific wording, only sufficient information about the topic, and that county attorneys are responsible for drafting the language. She defended her use of social media to share additional information as an effort to be transparent. Despite her explanation, residents remain frustrated with the communication process, emphasizing that official county channels are the expected source for agenda details. A final vote on the moratorium has not yet occurred, while neighboring Greenwood County Council is also expected to consider a similar one-year moratorium.