Fayetteville forum on data center moratorium gets heated
A public forum in Fayetteville, NC, regarding data center development and a potential moratorium became heated, with strong resident opposition. A council member's motion to draft a moratorium ordinance was rejected, but the city and Cumberland County are continuing discussions on regulating data centers and revised ordinances.
A Fayetteville City Council public forum on June 1 concerning data centers and a possible moratorium grew contentious, with many residents expressing strong opposition and one attendee being escorted out. Mayor Mitch Colvin noted the council's prior 120-day pause in April to gather information on data centers. Council member Shaun McMillan's formal request to direct staff to draft a moratorium ordinance failed to receive a second, effectively rejecting the motion.
Residents, including Angela Tatum, Janelle Kimbro of Sustainable Sandhills, and Pastor Micaela Bryce of Covenant Love Church, voiced concerns about the impact of data centers on quality of life, water supply, power grids, and the environment. The crowd was vocal, often cheering speakers who criticized data centers and advocating for a moratorium. Elizabeth Gruesome, a resident of Harnett County, was removed by security after objecting to not being allowed to speak.
Mayor Colvin acknowledged the passion surrounding the issue and stated that Fayetteville must proactively address data center investments for economic growth and tax base, despite community concerns. Cumberland County also held a public hearing in May regarding a moratorium but took no immediate action.
In Fayetteville, Council member Deno Hondros sought support for a public hearing on proposed revised ordinances to regulate data center and telecommunication facility developments, which differ from a full moratorium. The planning commission has already reviewed these revisions, and their findings will be presented to the council, offering residents another chance to comment before final decisions are made.