Town of Mooresville approves a 12-month moratorium for data centers
The Town of Mooresville Board of Commissioners approved a 12-month moratorium on data centers during the Monday, Nov. 2 meeting, temporarily pausing the consideration of new development proposals while town officials review zoning regulations and potential community impacts.
According to a presentation by James Coley, director of Planning and Community development, 56 jurisdictions across North Carolina have adopted moratoriums on data centers, while 14 have amended their ordinances to include specific regulations.
Concerns surrounding data center development include increased demands on municipal water and sewer systems, electric capacity, noise and visual impacts. The town's proposed review will examine potential zoning amendments addressing permitted locations, setbacks, buffers, building height, noise, energy and water consumption, lighting, screening and decommissioning.
Mayor Eddie Dingler said the board wants to improve transparency and communicate its approach to growth and development with residents.
"How do we become more transparent? How do we continue to show the public what our vision is and we're trying to answer the call," Dingler said.
Commissioner Edward Karriker emphasized the importance of giving town staff direction to research what regulations Mooresville can implement and how data center development could affect the community.
"If there is something we can do to slow down and get a reprieve, I'm going to tell you that this commissioner is going to say we're going to slow it down a little bit," Karriker said.
Commissioner Dana Tucker noted that growth has been an ongoing challenge for Mooresville, adding that the town is not approving development without consideration.
Commissioner Will Aven also addressed the economic implications of data centers, noting that while these facilities can increase property values and generate tax revenue, they do not necessarily provide a significant employment base.
"I think as a board we are looking at growth, smart growth," Aven said.
The moratorium follows a staff recommendation to adopt a 12-month pause under North Carolina General Statute 160D-107. The temporary measure will give town officials time to evaluate existing zoning standards and determine whether additional regulations are necessary.
Dingler encouraged commissioners and town staff to work together to communicate the findings and decisions to the public.
"Let's do it and just show the community what this is about and how we can be a little more transparent," Dingler said.
The town said the moratorium reflects its commitment to thoughtful growth and protecting the safety and well-being of the Mooresville community.
To view the full Board of Commissioners meeting, click here.
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