Public hearings scheduled on proposed development moratorium and neighborhood revitalization funding
By Coastal Carolina News Staff Writer
WHITEVILLE, NC — Two issues with potentially lasting impacts on Columbus County’s future will headline Monday night’s meeting of the Columbus County Board of Commissioners: a proposed temporary moratorium on data center development and a $950,000 grant application aimed at improving housing conditions for county residents.
Commissioners are scheduled to hold a public hearing on a proposed ordinance that would establish a temporary 120-day moratorium on approvals for data centers and other high-impact data processing facilities in unincorporated areas of the county.
The proposal stems from discussions during the board’s September 21 meeting, when a 90-day moratorium was first considered.
The ordinance scheduled for Monday would extend the proposed pause to 120 days while county officials evaluate potential impacts, regulations and planning considerations associated with future data center projects.
The public hearing will provide residents an opportunity to comment before commissioners consider whether to adopt the temporary moratorium.
Columbus County Commissioners will also consider approval of a Community Development Block Grant Neighborhood Revitalization Program application totaling $950,000.
If approved, the grant would support improvements to residential properties owned by qualifying homeowners. County officials estimate the project could assist at least five homeowners and would require no local funding match.
The neighborhood revitalization program is intended to address housing needs while preserving existing homes and improving living conditions for residents.
Together, the two proposals highlight competing but complementary priorities facing Columbus County: preparing for potential future development while investing in existing neighborhoods and housing stock.
The Board of Commissioners will begin with a closed session at 5:30 p.m. before convening its regular meeting at 6:30 p.m. at the Columbus County Government Complex in Whiteville.
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