HOMEWOOD, Ala. (WBRC) – On Monday, June 22, Homewood City Council approved a temporary moratorium on new data center development applications in the city. The moratorium is for 12 months, with the possibility of being extended for another six months after that.
According to a press release shared by the city, Homewood had no pending applications for data centers at the time of the temporary moratorium being approved.
Homewood City Council passes temporary data center moratorium(WBRC)
This temporary measure will provide time for city staff and the Planning Commission to “study this emerging land use and determine whether specific zoning, operational, buffering, infrastructure, or other development standards should be adopted before such facilities are considered within the city.”
The city said the review will focus on infrastructure capacity, utility demands, compatibility with surrounding land use and “preserving Homewood’s character and quality of life.”
Homewood, Alabama(WBRC)
All proposed regulations will be considered through Homewood’s normal public review process, allowing opportunities for residents, businesses and property owners to weigh in.
“This action is not intended to oppose economic development or technological investment. Rather, it reflects Homewood’s commitment to responsible growth, sound planning, and ensuring that future development aligns with the long-term interests of the community,” wrote the city of Homewood.
Homewood, Alabama(WBRC)
The city of Homewood attorney said that no permanent zoning regulations are being adopted through the ordinance.
“The City is currently engaged in a comprehensive review of its Comprehensive Plan and recognizes the importance of establishing thoughtful policies and regulations that address evolving development trends. During the moratorium period, the City intends to study and develop standards and regulations specifically applicable to data center facilities. The purpose of this review is to determine whether zoning, operational, buffering, infrastructure, or other development standards should be adopted before such facilities are considered within the City,” wrote the city attorney.
“This temporary action is a proactive planning measure and should not be interpreted as opposition to economic development or technological investment. Rather, it reflects the City’s commitment to responsible growth, sound infrastructure planning, and the protection of the health, safety, and welfare of its residents.”
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