Local governments enact moratoria amid expanding data center proposals
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Spartanburg County, South Carolina, approved the first reading on Monday of a one-year moratorium on new data centers in a special called session, following a June 15 directive ordering county attorneys and managers to draft the ordinance; the vote was the first of three readings required for enactment.
Other municipalities moved similarly this week: Woodbury County supervisors prepared to vote on a temporary ban amid a 900-acre annexation dispute with the City of Salix, and Mankato accelerated consideration of an interim moratorium after a late inquiry; Louisiana officials reported projected sales-tax exemptions of $1.68 billion (FY2026) and $1.71 billion (FY2027).
More context
Timeline
- 1. June 15: Spartanburg County approved measure to draft a one-year moratorium.
- 2. Special session Monday: Spartanburg County gave first reading to the moratorium.
- 3. This week: Woodbury County scheduled vote amid Salix 900-acre annexation dispute.
- 4. This week: Mankato added interim moratorium item for adoption at next meeting after public hearing.
- 5. State projection: Louisiana estimates $1.68B (FY2026) and $1.71B (FY2027) in sales-tax exemptions.
Why it matters
Data centers can impact your community. They can bring jobs but also strain resources like power and water. These moratoriums mean your local government is taking time to weigh these factors. Stay informed about these decisions by attending local council meetings or reading meeting minutes online.
Sources
JQJO Editorial Desk · Human reviewed · AI assisted. Report a correction.
