US Local Governments Implement Data Center Moratoriums Over Resource Concerns

Local governing bodies in several US states are implementing or considering moratoriums on data center development to assess impacts on water, power, and infrastructure. On July 1, the Linn County Board of Supervisors in Iowa voted 2-1 to enact an 18-month pause on new facilities in unincorporated areas. Supporters, including Board Chair Kirsten Running-Marquardt and Supervisor Brandy Meisheid, cited a lack of transparency regarding resource costs, while Vice Chair Sami Scheetz warned that the move could push development toward jurisdictions with weaker regulations.

Similar proactive measures are appearing in other states. The Santa Fe County Board of County Commissioners in New Mexico unanimously approved an 18-month moratorium, setting a low one-megawatt threshold to ensure a wide range of projects undergo review. In Tennessee, County Mayor Weston Wamp introduced a resolution to the Hamilton County Commission to prohibit new construction for one year, though the commission is not scheduled to vote on the resolution until July 15.

Other regions are pursuing regulatory frameworks or targeted pauses. The Little Rock Board of Directors in Arkansas will consider a moratorium on hyperscale facilities on July 7, excluding a planned Google project. Meanwhile, the Clark County Commission in Nevada is discussing new approval criteria following public pushback over AI-driven energy demands. This trend follows similar actions in Reno, Henderson, and Boulder City, reflecting a growing regional effort to balance economic growth with environmental protections.