Asheville City Council approves 1-year moratorium on new data center development
Asheville City Council has unanimously approved a one-year moratorium on new data center development. This pause will allow city leaders time to develop specific regulations for the fast-growing industry. Concerns include potential strain on local power and water resources, as well as noise and heat impacts on neighborhoods.
The Asheville City Council, during its meeting on Tuesday, June 23, unanimously enacted a one-year moratorium on new data center development. The decision comes as city leaders aim to establish a regulatory framework for the rapidly expanding industry, which currently lacks specific zoning rules in Asheville.
The council's action was prompted by concerns raised by officials and residents regarding the potential strain data centers place on local resources. Council members cited heavy demands on power and water systems, as well as noise and heat impacts on surrounding areas, as primary reasons for the development pause.
During a public hearing, residents shared their perspectives. Mo Knight expressed skepticism about the employment benefits data centers offer compared to their potential negative impacts. Eric Olson acknowledged the legitimacy of fears regarding water, energy, noise, and neighborhood fit, but emphasized the need for aggressive regulation and negotiation rather than outright rejection. The moratorium will provide the city with time to address these concerns and develop comprehensive regulations before considering future data center projects.