TA26-01 - Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) Text Amendments: Telecommunications and Data Storage Facilities (Data Centers)

Spoke in support of data centers, arguing that the city needs economic development and pointing out property tax implications.

Supported data centers as essential for the future economy, artificial intelligence, and national security.

Praised the proposed UDO as strong but recommended adding specific requirements for water management, noise control, and utility capacity studies.

Briefly commented on the UDO and decibel levels.

Spoke on behalf of Fayetteville PWC to provide informational perspective on utility rates, noting large load customers must pay for themselves without raising residential rates.

Strongly opposed data centers on behalf of the Party for Socialism and Liberation, citing water pollution, health risks, and lack of community benefit.

Expressed deep concern over water depletion and contamination from data centers during a drought.

Urged the council to pass a moratorium and carefully regulate water, air, and land use if data centers are built.

Called on the council to reject the current UDO, implement a moratorium, and require independent impact and acoustic studies.

Spoke as an Eastover resident whose property is near a proposed site, warning of negative impacts on farming, water, and daily life.

Criticized the heavy police presence and urged the council to support a moratorium to protect vulnerable communities from environmental hazards.

Expressed concern about generator noise and proximity to homes in the rural Eastover area.

Questioned the economic benefits of data centers and highlighted negative impacts on water, noise, and electricity rates.

Stated that current UDO protections are insufficient regarding air pollution, heavy metal sludge disposal, sound barriers, and property distances.

Urged the council to enact a moratorium and reject data center proposals that drain local power and water.