With one moratorium in place regarding data centers, and another in the works to address housing development in Moore County, the Planning Commission has begun the work of developing ordinances that will ensure smart growth in the county without burdening its residents.

The first discussed was the moratorium on data centers. The clock is already ticking on that one. Dexter Golden opened the floor to suggestions as to what restrictions should be put in place for prospective data centers. One restriction was that only closed loop cooling systems would be allowed, with limited water demand. Another was that the facility could be no more than 35 feet in height. Another would restrict the decibel level to 60 decibels, possibly lowering to 50 decibels from 7:00 pm until 7:00 am. The center could not be within 500 feet of residential areas, schools, or high-density areas such as around the square.

There was further discussion as to what zone it would be assigned. Options would be I-1, light industrial, I-2, heavy industrial, or to create an I-3 zone. So far the discussion favors I-2. Whether the facility would be allowed to put in wells on the property was brought up, but not resolved. There would be a restriction on auxiliary power, with that to be used only in case of emergency, such as the power outages.

Golden has a list of more suggestions, some that have been used by other counties, but did not have it at the meeting. He also said there were some he would follow up for more information on those discussed at the meeting. The list that will be sent to Metro Council is by no means complete, but does show the framework of the final ordinance. There will be further discussion at November’s meeting.

Discussion then turned to the moratorium on housing development. The Metro Council stipulated that to be a one-year moratorium to include both minor and major sub divisions. There was discussion regarding the wording in the sub division and the ordinance books. Defining “development” was an issue if the moratorium is strictly for housing. A development could be a business or other commercial or industrial project. That discussion centered on changing “development” to “sub division” to prevent confusion. The wording will be changed so it is the same in both books.

There was further confusion regarding apartments, townhomes, and duplexes, as well as mobile home parks. Some are zoned R-2, some C-1, and some A-1. Those zoning specifications are to be further defined to clear up any confusion. The Planning Commission will be working with Metro Council to iron out the details. There will certainly be more to come on the housing issue.

Moore County has been identified by the state as needing more housing. While that is acknowledged, the rate of growth has to be balanced with infrastructure, such as water, roads, schools, and even waste. The moratorium is only for one year. That gives county officials time to plan for responsible and sustainable growth for the betterment of its residents. Both the Metro Council and the Planning Commission are open to input and have asked for it. They are listening.