Tensions rise over proposed McCormick County data center plan
A public meeting held by Pollard Land Company in McCormick County, South Carolina, regarding a proposed data center and its request to rezone 1,000 acres, drew a large crowd. Residents expressed concerns about the project's impact on their community and property, while the developer highlighted potential economic benefits, including a natural gas line extension. Opposition to the project is ongoing, with local groups like McCormick First actively sharing information.
A public meeting hosted by Pollard Land Company regarding a proposed data center in McCormick County, South Carolina, was met with strong community opposition. The company is seeking to rezone approximately 1,000 acres for the project, which residents fear could significantly alter their community and jeopardize property investments.
Frederick Fuller, a McCormick resident for 10 years, expressed deep concern that his lifelong dream of a farm with horses is now in danger. Meanwhile, Bert Pollard, representing Pollard Land Company, emphasized the project's potential to provide a substantial boost to the local economy. He also addressed environmental considerations, including water consumption rates and the extension of a 250-280 million dollar natural gas line, which he stated would bring significant benefits to the county.
However, resident Kim Guy questioned the developer's claim that local households would benefit from the gas line extension, noting that McCormick County has fewer than 5,000 households, making such an expense doubtful. Mark Koeppen, founder of McCormick First, a website dedicated to sharing information and resources about data centers, highlighted that the company had been working with the county since November, a detail he felt was notably absent from the public discussion.
The meeting underscored rising tensions as residents sought definitive answers before the project progresses, indicating ongoing community engagement and concern regarding the data center development.