A Washington County committee has advanced a one-year pause on data centers

The Washington County Quorum Court's County Services Committee advanced a proposal Monday night for a yearlong moratorium on data centers. It now goes to the full quorum court for formal discussion and a possible vote.

Justice of the Peace Evelyn Rios Stafford, who represents District 12 and supports the moratorium, said the pause would give the quorum court time to review the county's planning and zoning regulations. She said residents have raised concerns about electricity and water use, utility costs and noise.

• Next meeting: full quorum court, Thu., Nov. 19
• Proposed pause: one year
• Covers: applications in unincorporated areas

5NEWS reports the ordinance proposes that no application for data center development would be accepted during that year. It will go before the full court next week.