Clyde says no to data centers following passionate public outcry

The town of Clyde, North Carolina, enacted a one-year moratorium on data center development, a decision driven by overwhelming community feedback. The unanimous vote by the town board followed an hour-long public hearing where numerous residents voiced strong opposition to data centers, citing concerns over public health, environmental impact, and economic implications. Residents like Martha Culp expressed fear regarding the potential for unceasing, deafening noise reverberating through the mountains. Jonathan Markley highlighted the heavy water usage of data centers, which could deplete the local water supply and negatively affect farmers. Garrett Gomez, head of IT for a national entertainment company, warned of rising energy costs, noting that Duke Energy was already increasing power rates by 15% for residents. Other speakers, including Lisa Murphy, a former recruiter for data center construction companies, argued that these facilities do not create significant local jobs due to specialized skill requirements often filled by traveling workers. Megan Clark also underscored the ecological impact, particularly on local salamander populations and the environment crucial for Haywood County's tourism. Alderman Frank Lay clarified that while Clyde has not been approached by data center developers, the moratorium allows the town to study issues, modify zoning, and amend land use regulations within state law limits, which dictate a one-year maximum before potentially infringing on property rights. Mayor Jim Trantham acknowledged that data centers offer substantial budget surpluses for municipalities but stated, "But we don't want their money." Town officials and residents alike suggested that a county-wide effort might ultimately be necessary to prevent data centers from establishing themselves outside of town limits.