Madison County board sets public hearing for moratorium on data centers and battery storage

The Madison County Board of Supervisors voted to set a public hearing for May 26 at 9:30 a.m. on imposing a moratorium for data centers and battery energy storage systems, after supervisors pushed to change the language from an outright "prohibition" to a time‑limited moratorium.

During discussion a board member argued for caution, saying, "You need to do a 12 month temporary moratorium," and warned an outright prohibition could invite litigation. The chair noted other counties had tried prohibitions and faced legal challenges, and the board agreed the moratorium would give staff and counsel time to draft ordinances and study impacts.

Supporters said a moratorium would pause development while the county crafts rules governing water, infrastructure and contract terms; opponents had originally favored stronger language but accepted the amendment. The board approved amending the agenda item to read as a moratorium and set the public hearing for May 26 at 9:30 a.m.

Next steps: staff will publish the amended notice for the May 26 hearing and begin drafting proposed ordinances and study plans for the board to review.