Planning staff proposes limited moratorium on data centers while model regulations are developed

Staff told commissioners that Rutherford County's zoning ordinance does not currently identify data centers as a defined use, so a site would require a planned development approach unless regulations are adopted. Planning Director Doug DeMasi said the office has begun research and reviewed model language, and that property management recommended a six‑month moratorium on data center applications while regulations are developed.

Commissioners asked for technical briefings from utility providers and the Consolidated Utility District about water and electric infrastructure impacts; County Attorney Nick Christiansen said the intent of a moratorium would be to allow local government time to craft regulations and criteria to adjudge future applications. Commissioners moved to ask the county commission to defer taking final action until the planning commission can present recommended resolution language and educational briefings; motion and second carried.