City of Leeds passes one-year moratorium on data center development
The Leeds City Council in Alabama unanimously passed a one-year moratorium on data center development approvals and permits. This decision was prompted by resident concerns about potential data centers eyeing the city and the lack of long-term benefits while posing environmental risks. The moratorium allows the city time to research impacts and update its zoning ordinances.
The Leeds City Council in Alabama unanimously enacted a one-year moratorium on all property development approvals and permits for data center campuses. The decision was made during a Monday night vote, with public support, following resident concerns about potential data center development in the city.
City Councilor Sabrina Rose expressed a desire for a permanent ban, echoing the council's general sentiment, while Mayor Pro Tem Eric Turner noted the city is considering updating its zoning ordinances to address data centers long-term. Residents like Christy Johnson voiced relief, highlighting concerns about data centers' limited job creation and potential environmental harm through excessive water and power usage, specifically mentioning the Cahaba River.
According to Tiffiany Ward, Public Relations representative for the City of Leeds, the moratorium provides crucial time for research into the unknown impacts of data centers on the community. Councilor Cary Kennedy had previously reported that data centers were considering Leeds, prompting the proactive measure, as he noted that other communities have regretted allowing data centers in recent years.