Greenwood County Council moves data center moratorium forward

Greenwood County Council formally introduced a proposed one-year moratorium on the approval of data centers and related infrastructure, following a strong push from local residents. The decision, captured in Ordinance 2026-25, was presented on first reading in title only during a packed public meeting where numerous residents voiced concerns. Vice Chairman Dayne Pruitt, a sponsor of the ordinance, expressed support for a 12-month pause to allow for a deeper study of data centers and a review of the county's existing ordinances, particularly regarding rural development district zoning.

Residents, including members of "Greenwood County Residents for Responsible Growth," emphasized the need for unbiased information and a thorough review of potential impacts on water, electricity, noise, and infrastructure. Speakers like Tina Escalona, Debbie Turner, and Walter Kimble urged the council to "close the door" temporarily to avoid a "cookie cutter" approach and learn from other communities like Loudoun County, Virginia, and Spartanburg County, South Carolina, which have experience with data center development. The Planning Commission had previously recommended a 24-month moratorium and denial of a proposed data center text amendment, Ordinance 2026-19, which aimed to establish zoning standards.

Chairman Theo Lane clarified that he did not oppose bringing the moratorium to a vote, ensuring it would receive "full due process." County officials are planning to visit an out-of-state data center to gather more information. The second reading and public hearing for the proposed moratorium, as well as a revisit of the proposed data center text amendment, are scheduled for July 7, indicating that data center regulations will remain a primary focus for the council.