Boone Town Council Passes Data Center Moratorium

The Boone Town Council has taken the first step toward a one-year moratorium on data center construction within town limits.

Mayor Dalton George raised the issue at the council's March 11 meeting, saying he wanted the town to be proactive about the potential environmental impacts of data centers and similar high-intensity uses such as cryptocurrency mining.

Andy Hill, representing the environmental group MountainTrue, told the council that data centers pose significant risks to the community. Hill said the facilities consume large amounts of water, use chemical cooling systems that can contaminate groundwater, and discharge superheated water that could harm aquatic ecosystems.

He added that data centers provide few direct benefits to local communities in the form of jobs or economic activity, and said Boone's economy is already robust and diverse enough that the town should prioritize protecting its natural resources.

Town Attorney Meade told the council that data centers are not currently defined in the town's Unified Development Ordinance and would be classified as manufacturing uses permitted in M-1 zoning districts.

Meade also noted that recent state legislation prevents the town from down-zoning properties, but does allow the adoption of additional standards and regulations for new uses.

Council Member Plaag made the motion to direct staff to begin the research process for a one-year moratorium. Council Member Roseman seconded, and the motion carried unanimously.

Council Member Pruitt asked about coordination with Watauga County. Mayor George said the county has been exploring related infrastructure issues and would likely consider a similar action.

A public hearing on the proposed moratorium is tentatively scheduled for March 23, 2026. Staff and the Town Attorney will use the intervening time to study the issue and develop appropriate standards.

Data center moratoriums have become a growing trend nationwide, with municipalities in North Carolina and other states pausing approvals while they assess the environmental and infrastructure impacts of the rapidly expanding industry.

The Boone Town Council meets on the second and fourth Tuesdays of each month. Meeting agendas and minutes are available through the town's Granicus portal.