Little Rock mayor unveils framework to regulate hyperscale data centers; review set for June 2

Mayor Frank Scott Jr. distributed a draft ordinance to add targeted zoning regulations for hyperscale data centers and said it will be considered by the board on June 2. "I do formally believe this is a proactive approach, that we as a city can demonstrate a framework," he said, urging staff to finalize legal language and post the proposal online.

Scott told board members the measure is intended to balance residents’ concerns about environmental and community impacts with sustainable economic development. The draft narrows its scope to "hyper scale" uses and relies on planning staff work and best-practice examples from other jurisdictions; Scott asked City Attorney Carpenter to "lay over" legal wording so the item can appear on the June 2 agenda with the mayor's recommended framework.

Board members pressed for comparison with Pulaski County's approach and for public outreach. Director Miller asked staff to review the county ordinance to identify differences; planning staff said the city's zoning code differs from county planning (the county has planning but not the same zoning authority) and that the draft’s use-group table will define where the new rules apply. "Pay attention to the last page. It has the use groups, where these will be allowed," planning staff said.

Several board members suggested inviting utility executives so they could explain infrastructure implications; Director Computers asked the utilities to be present, and Scott confirmed they are scheduled for June 2. Scott also asked communications staff to post the draft and a press release by the following day so residents have time to review and offer feedback before the vote.

Why it matters: large "hyperscale" data centers can carry community impacts including energy use, water demands and heavier infrastructure needs. The city’s draft intends to create a standard regulatory framework rather than ad-hoc approvals, but board members noted the city’s authority is limited by state law and asked the city attorney to vet the proposal against applicable state statutes.

Next step: The ordinance will be posted online and taken up at the June 2 board meeting, when the city attorney and planning staff will present legal language and utility partners will be available to answer questions.