Rockingham City Council approves rezoning request for data center in split vote

The Rockingham City Council voted 4-1 to approve the rezoning of 165 acres on Old Cheraw Highway for a proposed $1.2 billion data center. The property was rezoned from high-density residential to conditional light industrial for developer Terra Nexus. The decision followed a contentious public hearing on September 8th, where numerous residents voiced opposition, citing environmental concerns, potential health impacts, and decreased property values.

Asst. City Manager John Massey presented the proposal, highlighting that the project, without city incentives, is expected to more than double the city's current tax base, potentially allowing for lower tax rates and infrastructure improvements. Developer Terra Nexus agreed to several conditions, including maintaining access to a cemetery on the property and using a closed-loop water system that avoids city water for cooling, instead trucking in and out water. They also committed to paying Duke Energy for upgraded infrastructure to support the 460 megawatts required by the facility upon its six-year, four-building build-out.

Kasey Moraveck, an associate attorney with the Southern Environmental Law Center, urged denial, arguing the project would harm nearby residents and was insufficiently regulated. Russ Finchum, a vocal opponent, presented a petition with over 270 signatures and questioned the lack of air quality permits for the proposed 192 backup diesel generators. Council members debated the project's merits, with Councilwoman Holly Howe voting against it due to concerns about pollution and the rushed process, while others like Councilman Bennett Deane emphasized transparency and the potential economic benefits, calling it a historic moment for Rockingham.