City Council Agenda Item Request -Data Center Policy: Direction to City Manager to Research and Present Options - Council Member McMillan

Summary

This City Council agenda item request directs the City Manager to research and present policy options for data center development. Council Member McMillan is the requester, with the goal of ensuring Fayetteville acts proactively rather than reactively to future data center proposals. The research will cover potential zoning amendments with performance standards and environmental impact assessments, permitting conditions, community benefit requirements, and the feasibility of a temporary development moratorium (60-180 days). The request also recommends interlocal coordination with Cumberland County and references a report from the Southern Environmental Law Center. A future work session is anticipated for March 2, 2026, to discuss findings and recommendations. This item directly supports City Council Goal III: City Investment Planning, specifically Objectives 3.2 (Manage growth and land use) and 3.5 (Increase smart city capacity), and the priority of developing a comprehensive approach to community safety.

Citizen Impact

This item will lead to the development of policies that could impact future data center development in Fayetteville. Residents may see new regulations concerning environmental standards, community benefits, and land use related to data centers, potentially influencing local growth and infrastructure.

Confidence

high