Baldwin County city sets six-month data center moratorium
The City of Foley, Alabama, has enacted a six-month moratorium on data center development. This temporary halt allows city officials to study potential impacts and update regulations, including zoning ordinances, to prepare for any future applications related to data centers, Bitcoin, or cryptocurrency mining facilities.
The Foley City Council in Alabama has approved a six-month moratorium on the development of data centers, Bitcoin mining facilities, server farms, and similar technically-oriented operations. The ordinance, which went into effect immediately after its final reading on Tuesday, September 8, prohibits the acceptance, processing, approval, or consideration of applications for these types of facilities for the next six months.
Mayor Ralph Hellmich stated that no data centers have been proposed in the Foley area, emphasizing that the moratorium is a proactive measure. The temporary pause will allow city officials to thoroughly review existing regulations and prepare new municipal ordinances and guidelines. This preparation aims to address potential impacts on environmental concerns, zoning, water usage, noise pollution, and electrical consumption, ensuring the city is adequately prepared should such industries seek to establish operations in the future.
During this six-month period, city staff will update technical design manuals and zoning ordinances, taking into account the specific impacts of data centers. They will also collaborate with Riviera Utilities, the city-owned electrical provider, to discuss water and power usage, and anticipated megawatt thresholds. Mayor Hellmich highlighted Riviera Utilities' existing policy that prevents data centers from burdening existing customers with power infrastructure costs, requiring developers to bring their own power if necessary.