Randolph County quorum court discusses data center possibilities
The Randolph County Quorum Court discussed a buyer’s preliminary interest in locating a data center on property in the county, but no formal proposal or timeline exists. Officials and residents said more research is needed, with concerns including water use, energy consumption, drought conditions and whether the project would create substantial local employment.
The Randolph County Quorum Court in Pocahontas discussed a buyer’s preliminary interest in purchasing land for a possible data center. County Judge Ben Wicker said the buyer is also considering other properties in the region, but no formal application or development action has been submitted. Court members agreed they need more time and research before deciding how to proceed.
Residents expressed mixed views, including concerns about water demand, energy consumption, low river levels and whether specialized jobs would go to workers from outside the county. Randolph County previously adopted Ordinance 2023-16, which limits data center noise to 65 decibels during the day and 55 decibels overnight, with possible fines or shutdown orders for violations.