Canton’s 12-Month Freeze on Data Centers and Crypto Mining: A Wake-Up Call for Small Towns
A Packed Town Hall and a Big Decision
In a small town where town meetings usually draw just a few locals, something big happened. Over 100 people packed into Canton’s town hall on a cold night. Many more stood outside, listening through speakers. The reason? The Board of Aldermen was voting on a <12-month moratorium> on new data centers, server farms, and cryptocurrency mining.
The vote was unanimous. Emotions ran high as residents shared fears about water shortages, huge energy use, and shaky job promises. This move came just in time, before any big projects could start on the old paper mill site.
The Old Paper Mill Site: A Hot Spot for Interest
Canton, North Carolina, lost over 1,000 jobs when its paper mill shut down. The site sat empty, a reminder of hard times. Then, out-of-town companies started asking about turning it into data centers.
No firm plans exist yet. But leaders saw the risk. They wanted time to think. Mayor Zeb Smathers said the town gets few chances to shape its future after the mill. “We want the highest and best use of our resources,” he told the crowd.
The <12-month moratorium> stops all permit applications for these projects. It gives Canton a year to study options and craft smart rules.
Why Residents Said No: Water and Energy Worries
People spoke loud and clear. A local farmer, Tabbitha Ross, feared data centers would suck up water needed for crops. She remembered how the old mill once cut off the town’s water supply.
Data centers need a lot of water to cool servers. Studies show one center can use 300,000 to 5 million gallons a day. That’s like filling thousands of swimming pools.
Energy use is another big issue. Data centers and crypto mining guzzle electricity. Crypto mining alone uses as much power as some countries. In a rural area like Canton, this could spike bills and strain the grid.
- Water use: Up to 5 million gallons daily per data center.
- Energy: Crypto mining rivals Argentina’s total power use yearly.
- Pollution risk: Past mill polluted the Pigeon River; no repeats wanted.
Jobs: Promise or Letdown?
After the mill closed, folks want real jobs. But data centers offer few. Reports say they create up to 100 permanent spots. Construction brings short-term work, but not much else.
“We need light industry that generates jobs,” said Anthony Rickman, a former mill worker. Alderman Ralph Hamlett remembered the polluted river from mill days. “Hindsight is 20/20,” he said. The town learned from past mistakes.
What Is a Moratorium and Why Now?
A moratorium is a temporary ban. Canton’s lasts 12 months. It blocks new data centers, server farms, and crypto mines. No permits, no starts.
This is preventative. Companies inquired, but nothing was set. The board acted fast to protect the town. During this time, they’ll update zoning laws and economic plans.
It’s part of a bigger trend. Small towns and states push back on data centers and crypto. High energy and water needs clash with local life. Places like New York had similar bans over power worries.
Crypto Mining and Data Centers: The Hidden Costs
Cryptocurrency mining powers blockchains like Bitcoin. Machines solve puzzles 24/7, using tons of electricity. Data centers store cloud info and run AI, needing constant cooling.
Both bring money but at a cost:
| Issue | Impact on Towns |
|---|---|
| Electricity | Grids overload; rates rise |
| Water | Dries up local supplies |
| Noise/Heat | Fans roar like jets |
| Jobs | Few long-term roles |
Crypto fans say it’s innovative. But towns like Canton prioritize clean air, water, and steady growth.
What’s Next for Canton?
The year ahead is key. Leaders will research rules to limit or guide these projects. They aim for balance: jobs without harm.
Options include:
- Strict water caps.
- Renewable energy rules.
- Job guarantees.
- Zoning away from farms.
This could inspire other towns. As crypto booms and AI grows, more places may pause and plan.
A Smarter Path Forward
Canton’s stand shows small towns have power. The <12-month moratorium on data centers and cryptocurrency mining> buys time for wise choices. It honors the past while building a green future.
Will other towns follow? Can crypto go green enough? Watch Canton. It might set the model for sustainable tech growth.
