Spartanburg County Council delays vote on data center freeze
Spartanburg County Council delayed a vote on a proposed countywide data center moratorium until September 21. Residents voiced strong opposition due to environmental concerns, while the council seeks more expert and public input. The moratorium is intended to pause development to allow for more informed decision-making.
Spartanburg County Council postponed a vote on a proposed countywide data center moratorium during its Monday night meeting, pushing the third reading to September 21. The chambers were filled with frustrated residents holding posters, many reiterating long-standing concerns about data centers' potential environmental impact, including claims that they would be the "number one polluter" in the county.
Council members explained the delay was to allow for another Public Safety Committee meeting. This meeting would facilitate further public input and allow remaining experts or organizations, especially those focused on environmental concerns, to speak. Council members noted they had previously invited data center companies and environmental groups like the Southern Environmental Law Center to speak at an earlier meeting, but both declined.
Despite residents' frustrations, council members emphasized their commitment to providing accurate information before making any decisions. They also clarified that some concerns, such as air and water quality, fall under state rather than county jurisdiction, urging constituents to address state senators and representatives. No date has been set for the next Public Safety Committee meeting.