Vonore community pushes against future AI data centers being built in the area

The Vonore Regional Planning Commission recently convened to consider amendments to zoning ordinances specifically targeting standards for data processing centers and battery energy storage systems. Vonore Mayor John Hammontree acknowledged significant community opposition to these potential developments, noting that the commission aimed to gather public input before deciding on next steps.

Residents voiced serious concerns regarding the environmental impact of data centers, particularly their substantial consumption of water and electricity. Rachel Pilcher, a Monroe County resident, expressed alarm over the rapid growth of data centers nationally and questioned whether large tech companies like Google would be accountable for local environmental degradation. Another resident, Amber Bright, highlighted fears of higher electric bills, water contamination, and the addition of gas turbines.

Commissioners reportedly reviewed ordinances from other communities to inform their own local regulations. The public present at the meeting urged for a moratorium on data center construction to prevent the establishment of what they view as minimally regulated facilities. John Moore, a Vonore resident, stated his desire for "no data centers period," regardless of proposed buffers.

Despite the discussions, the Vonore Planning Commission did not enact any ordinance changes after the meeting. Mayor Hammontree encouraged attendees to present their concerns at the upcoming meeting of the Vonore Board of Mayor and Aldermen, scheduled for next Tuesday at Vonore City Hall.