Article

Harvey County commissioners approved a moratorium on data center development in unincorporated areas, effective upon legal publication, halting applications until the end of 2028. The moratorium allows time for county departments to establish regulations for data centers, which can pose challenges such as noise, electricity demand, and water usage.

Currently, there are no proposed data center projects in the county. Concerns have arisen due to nearby communities opposing data center projects, prompting the need for regulations. Large data centers can use significant water daily, with hyperscale centers consuming over a million gallons. The moratorium can be lifted or extended, and public hearings will be conducted as regulations are developed.