Pulaski and Davidson Counties Clash Over Data Center Rules
Pulaski County officials prepare to vote on a veto override for data center rules while Davidson County adopts new zoning restrictions for large facilities.
Local governments in Pulaski and Davidson counties are implementing divergent strategies to manage the growth of large-scale data centers. In Pulaski County, the Quorum Court is scheduled to vote Tuesday evening on whether to override County Judge Barry Hyde's veto of an ordinance that would require developers to disclose electricity, noise, and water usage. Judge Hyde vetoed the measure to avoid legal and financial risks, a position supported by Republican nominee Michael Rushin. Conversely, Democratic primary winner Wendell Griffen argues that residents need protections before development decisions create long-term consequences. The dispute centers on a proposed $6 billion facility by AVAIO Digital Partners near Wrightsville.
Meanwhile, the Davidson County Board of Commissioners voted 5-2 on Monday to adopt new zoning regulations for data centers, though they rejected a proposed four-month development moratorium in a 6-1 vote. The new rules prohibit large facilities in residential, rural, and community shopping districts and mandate minimum setbacks of 200 to 1,000 feet. The ordinance also requires low-water cooling systems and Tier 4 Environmental Protection Agency standards for backup generators. These regulations follow public concern regarding the Davie-Davidson Energy Complex, a joint project by Duke Energy and Piedmont Natural Gas.
