Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Data Centers topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Residents urge moratorium on data centers, warn of risks to Deep and Cape Fear rivers
Summary
Three residents used the public-comment period to ask Sanford leaders to halt data-center development and related activities, citing concerns about impacts on local waterways and urging job-focused alternatives; the council took no action.
Three Sanford residents urged the City Council to pause or prohibit data centers, crypto‑mining and fracking during the March 3 public‑comment period, saying such facilities could harm local rivers and water supplies.
Bob Finch (1414 Carthage Street) voiced general concern about allowing data centers in Lee County and suggested the city prioritize manufacturing jobs instead. Debbie Hall (957 Cumnock Road) asked the council to impose a moratorium on data centers in Sanford and Lee County to allow time for more research into potential impacts, specifically raising concerns about effects on the Deep River. Donna Strickland (1708 Woodbridge Drive) opposed fracking, crypto‑mining and data centers and said, based on her research, they would negatively affect the Cape Fear and Deep Rivers.
The remarks were made during the meeting’s public‑comment period; the minutes record the speakers’ concerns but show no council vote or directive in response. City staff and council did not propose or adopt any moratorium or regulatory change during the meeting. The issue may return to the council if citizens or staff place it on a future agenda.
