Westover City Council Enacts Six-Month Data Center Moratorium
The Westover City Council unanimously approved a six-month moratorium on data centers following resident feedback expressing concerns over environmental impacts, electrical demand, and water usage. This decision could lead the data center developer to abandon the project, and there is a risk of a lawsuit against the city for stopping the development. A town hall meeting is scheduled to further discuss the project with city leaders, utility representatives, and the community.
The Westover City Council in Alabama unanimously enacted a six-month moratorium on data centers on August 18, following significant public feedback. The moratorium temporarily suspends all municipal approvals, including zoning, business licenses, and building permits, for data center developments.
Mayor Bobby Pardue indicated that the unnamed company behind the data center project might withdraw due to the financial implications of the council's decision. Earlier, the council had postponed a decision on the moratorium to hold a town hall, and developers had agreed to a 45-day pause on permit submissions, though this agreement lacked comprehensive legal coverage, according to city attorney Grace Graham.
Residents voiced strong concerns during public comment, citing environmental impacts, high electricity and water demands, and issues with backup systems. Council members, including Jay Crisman, supported the moratorium to allow the city's Planning Commission adequate time to prepare and research the topic further, noting the negative public sentiment. The council had previously approved the rezoning of 448 acres along Highway 280 to EC-1 (Employment Center-Industrial District) in February 2025, facilitating the project. The land was subsequently purchased by Swift Willow Property from Westervelt Realty in June 2025.
Legal counsel warned the council of a potential lawsuit given the size and complexity of the development. A town hall is scheduled for August 20 at New Life Church, where city leaders, representatives from Shelby County Water Services and Alabama Power, and invited data center representatives will discuss the project with the community.