Gates County says data‑center moratorium is a study period; planning board drafting ordinance

Gates County commissioners on Tuesday reiterated that a temporary moratorium on data centers and related high‑impact facilities is intended as a study and drafting period rather than an immediate ban.

"This moratorium is not a time that we're sitting and doing nothing. We are taking this year to do research and to learn what we can," Chair Emily Truman said, adding the goal is to craft ordinance language that holds up legally and does not leave loopholes. "You have to make sure the language is right so that you can prevent any avenue ... that they can slip in on the back end."

Planning staff told the board the Planning Board has been gathering ordinances from other jurisdictions, conducting research, and will draft land‑use ordinance language for the county to consider. The staff estimate for drafting and initial public engagement falls in a six‑to‑ten‑month window; commissioners discussed hosting public town halls after the budget process and into the new fiscal year to solicit community input.

Commissioners acknowledged robust online discussion and community questions about data‑center proposals and urged residents to use planned public workshops and posted materials for feedback. Several board members emphasized the need for careful legal review — including consultation with utility providers and academic resources — before any binding ordinance is adopted.

Next steps: planning staff will continue research, prepare draft ordinance language for board review, and schedule public outreach (town halls and hearings) after the fiscal‑year budget cycle.