Little Rock data center moratorium fails in tie vote
Little Rock City Directors failed to pass an 18-month moratorium on Google's planned data center in a tie vote. Residents raised concerns about transparency, water, and energy use. Despite the failure, new proposals for additional regulations are expected to be considered soon.
A proposal to implement an 18-month moratorium on Google's planned Little Rock data center failed following a tie vote by the Little Rock City Directors on Tuesday night. The temporary policy would have paused the 300-acre project at the Port of Little Rock, allowing the city more time to develop new land use and planning regulations.
During extensive public comment, residents voiced concerns regarding transparency, water and energy usage, and potential impacts on nearby communities. Director Kathy Webb stated that this feedback is crucial and will help shape the next round of proposed rules. Webb affirmed that the process is not over, indicating that city directors anticipate considering new proposals for additional regulations and addressing transparency issues within the coming month or so.