McCormick County chairman discusses approved data center site
McCormick County Council approved rezoning for a data center site, a decision Chairman Bernie Hamby found challenging due to a tight deadline from the Pollard Company. This action occurred despite significant public opposition, with hundreds demonstrating in dissent as the council voted down a proposed data center moratorium.
McCormick County Council recently approved the rezoning of land for a data center project, a decision that has sparked considerable public debate. The approval came after a "heated meeting" last week, followed by another well-attended council meeting where discussions continued.
Chairman Bernie Hamby revealed that this was one of the hardest decisions he has faced during his tenure on the council. He explained that a strict deadline from the Pollard Company, which is facilitating the deal, necessitated a swift decision by September to attract a user for the data center. Hamby expressed a desire for more time to deliberate on the data center issue but ultimately voted in favor of the plan due to these time constraints.
The council's decision was met with strong opposition from hundreds of residents who attended the meetings, shouting in dissent. Public concerns were raised regarding potential environmental impacts, including emissions and the testing of water and air quality. The council also voted down a proposed pause or moratorium on data center development before approving the rezoning.