Foley sets six-month data center moratorium
The Foley City Council has approved a six-month moratorium on data centers and similar technically oriented operations. This pause will allow city officials to study their potential effects on the community and update municipal ordinances, particularly concerning zoning, environmental impacts, and utility usage. The city aims to be prepared for future proposals, although none have been submitted yet.
The Foley City Council in Alabama has enacted a six-month moratorium on data centers, Bitcoin and cryptocurrency mining facilities, server farms, and similar technically oriented operations. The ordinance, which was approved on its final reading on Tuesday, Sept. 8, immediately restricts the acceptance, processing, approval, and consideration of applications for such facilities for the next six months.
Mayor Ralph Hellmich stated that no data centers have currently been proposed for Foley, but the moratorium is a proactive measure to give city officials time to prepare and update municipal ordinances and guidelines. This review will encompass environmental, zoning, and other regulatory aspects to ensure the city is well-prepared should an application be submitted in the future, allowing them to ask the right questions and have appropriate answers.
Key concerns being addressed include water use, noise pollution, and electrical consumption. Mayor Hellmich highlighted that Foley's city-owned electrical provider, Riviera Utilities, already has policies in place to prevent data centers from burdening existing customers, requiring new facilities to provide their own power. The city also plans to collaborate with Riviera Utilities on water and power usage thresholds.
During the moratorium, city staff will study the impacts of data centers in other communities, both within Alabama and nationwide, to inform updated regulations. The goal is to protect the community and environment while preserving Foley's qualities as one of the fastest-growing communities in the United States.