City of Durham Passes 60-Day Data Center Moratorium

The Durham City Council has passed a 60-day moratorium on data center development in the city. The moratorium, which was proposed by City Councilmember Nate Baker, will prevent the city from approving any data center construction for the next 60 days. The city wants time to develop zoning standards and mitigation methods for data centers, which may cause detrimental harm to the natural environment and the quality of life of city residents. The moratorium will also prevent data processing and cryptocurrency mining facilities from being approved. The city council voted unanimously to pass the ordinance, with members expressing support for finding ways to extend it. The 60-day pause will allow city staff to work on studying the impacts of data centers and developing land use regulations.