Fayetteville city council divided on proposed data center, schedules further hearings
Fayetteville City Council scheduled another public hearing and plans to revise a proposed moratorium related to a proposed data center. Residents voiced concerns about water use, noise, power demand, transparency and potential health impacts, while the council has not yet resolved whether to adopt the moratorium.
Fayetteville City Council members held a special session after months of debate over a proposed data center and scheduled another public hearing to consider draft moratorium language. The council also agreed to consult an attorney and prepare a revised ordinance before its November work session; no moratorium has yet been adopted.
Residents, including Eastover resident Christi Davis and Fayetteville resident Nubian "King" Holmes, criticized the council for inadequate preparation and a lack of clear answers. City officials said a 120-day study included community meetings and tours of data centers, while water use, noise and electricity demand emerged as the community's primary concerns. Councilmember Shaun McMillan also questioned the materials provided ahead of the meeting.