The City of Statesville created this page to provide residents with accurate, up-to-date information about data center planning, the proposed moratorium, public meetings, and any potential changes to the City’s development regulations.
This page will be updated as new information becomes available.
The Statesville City Council is considering a proposed 150-day moratorium on new data center applications. The temporary pause would allow the City to review its existing development regulations, receive community input, and determine whether updates are needed.
Current stage: Proposed moratorium under consideration
Next step: Public Hearing
Next meeting: August 10, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. at Statesville City Hall
What is a moratorium?
A moratorium is a temporary pause on a specific type of development application. In this case, it would temporarily pause the acceptance, processing, and approval of new data center applications while the City reviews and updates its development regulations.
Why is the city considering a moratorium?
The city has received questions and concerns from residents about future data center development. The proposed moratorium would provide time to evaluate the City's regulations, hear from the community, and determine whether updates are needed before accepting additional applications.
Is the City banning data centers?
No. The proposed moratorium is not a ban on data centers. It is a temporary planning tool that would allow the city to review and update its regulations before considering additional applications.
How long would the moratorium last?
If approved, the proposed moratorium would remain in effect for 150 days while the City reviews its development regulations and considers whether updates are needed.
Does this affect the approved Compass Data Center?
No. The approved Compass Data Center on Stamey Farm Road is specifically exempt from the proposed moratorium and would continue through the development process.
Will existing businesses be affected?
No. The proposed moratorium applies only to new data center applications submitted during the moratorium period.
What will the city be doing during the moratorium?
City staff will review the Unified Development Code and develop recommendations for how future data centers should be regulated. This work will include evaluating zoning districts, definitions, development standards, and other regulations related to data centers before presenting proposed changes through the public review process.
Will the public have an opportunity to provide input?
Yes. The first opportunity will be at the public hearing on Monday, August 10, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. before the City Council considers the proposed moratorium. If the moratorium is approved, any future amendments to the Unified Development Code would also go through the City's public review process, including Planning Board review and additional public hearings before the City Council.
