Wendell Griffen Advocates for Data Center Regulations Amid Budget Crisis in Pulaski County

Wendell Griffen, the Democratic nominee for Pulaski County county judge, has proposed regulations that would require data centers to undergo a conditional use permit process, ensuring infrastructure capacity and mitigation of impacts. This initiative emerges while the county grapples with a budget crisis, as Treasurer Debra Buckner warned of payroll issues due to overspending.

Griffen's ordinance introduces a legal definition for 'high-intensity digital infrastructure,' targeting developments that require significant resources. As the Quorum Court prepares to address this proposal, concerns over financial management persist, with ongoing tensions between county officials regarding budget deficits and mismanagement accusations. An external audit is set to evaluate the county’s financial situation, which could impact Griffen's regulatory plans.