Pulaski County stops new data center developments, excludes two ongoing projects
Pulaski County's Quorum Court has enacted a 12-month moratorium on new data center construction, allowing two existing projects to continue. The decision aims to provide time for developing a land-use plan and addressing community concerns. Residents are worried about transparency and potential increases in water and electricity costs, though utilities stated rates would not rise.
The Pulaski County Quorum Court met on Tuesday to vote on a 12-month moratorium concerning data center construction within the county. The moratorium was successfully passed, though it included an amendment allowing two ongoing data center projects to proceed without interruption. One of these projects is situated near Sweet Home, and the other is located on 145th Street near Wrightsville; all other new projects will be halted for the year.
The stated purpose of this pause is to afford the Quorum Court additional time to investigate data centers, formulate a comprehensive land-use plan, and engage more thoroughly with community members. Donna Massy, a Pulaski County Justice of the Peace, expressed her desire to implement a land-use plan and foster better communication with the community, noting that while the impact directly affects certain areas, the entire county could feel the effects of data centers if issues arise.
Community members voiced concerns over a lack of transparency during the initial stages of the existing projects, with one having been underway since 2024. A significant worry among residents is the potential for increased water and electricity costs due to data center operations. However, during the meeting, officials from Entergy Arkansas and Central Arkansas Water presented information, stating on the record that utility rates would not increase and that data centers would be responsible for funding any necessary infrastructure upgrades.