Washington County to discuss proposed moratorium on data center construction
Washington County officials are set to discuss a proposed one-year moratorium on accepting data center development applications in unincorporated areas. Supporters say the pause would allow time to study the potential costs and benefits of development and consider additional regulations related to electricity, water and other resources.
The Washington County Quorum Court’s Services Committee is scheduled to discuss an ordinance proposing a one-year moratorium on data center construction in the county’s unincorporated areas. If adopted, the measure would prevent officials from accepting new applications for data center development during the pause.
The proposal cites concerns about the demands data centers could place on electrical, water and other local resources. County officials say the moratorium would provide additional time to evaluate the potential costs and benefits of development and consider whether further regulations are needed.