Mooresville leaders face community backlash over data center and rezoning proposals

The Mooresville Board of Commissioners meeting on May 5, 2025, featured significant discussions on community inclusivity and a proposed data center project that has raised concerns among residents.

Scarlett Inman, founder and president of Mooresville Pride, addressed the board to advocate for the town's LGBTQIA2S+ community. Inman highlighted the lack of formal support for these residents, noting that harmful rhetoric has made them feel unsafe. She expressed disappointment over changes to the town's special events policy, which have effectively halted pride parades on Main Street. Inman emphasized the need for the town to acknowledge its diversity and commit to inclusivity, urging the commissioners to reconsider their stance.

Inman was followed by another resident who voiced concerns regarding a proposed data center project and a rezoning request for the Earnhardt property on Patterson Farm Road. The speaker urged the board to pause the project, citing a lack of transparency and information about the end user and projected water usage. They argued that the proposed rezoning contradicts the town's comprehensive plan, which aims to preserve rural and agricultural areas. The resident expressed frustration over the lack of response from commissioners to community concerns, emphasizing the importance of public input in shaping the town's future.

The discussions reflect ongoing tensions in Mooresville regarding community representation and development, highlighting the need for the Board of Commissioners to engage more actively with residents on these critical issues.