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Candidates back study and moratorium on large data centers until impacts are clear
Summary
Following state and regional debates about data centers, candidates supported a temporary moratorium and formation of a study committee to assess water, electricity and infrastructure impacts before approving data center development in Wilson County.
Data centers (referred to in questions as "AI centers") prompted candidates to support a pause-and-study approach. Mayor Hutto described a county resolution to assemble a five-person committee and pursue a six-month moratorium so officials can "figure out what is a data center" and what guidance is needed. Gail Hellum praised the moratorium as a way to gather facts; Christina Puza Smith urged impact studies covering water and electricity use, EPA evaluations and other metrics to understand infrastructure strains and community benefits before approvals.
Candidates asked for clear impact assessments detailing water consumption, electricity needs and mitigation plans so the county can set conditions for responsible development.
