Potential Data Center or Data Processing Facility Development in Heavy Industrial District

A recent meeting document Black Mountain - Planning Board Agenda Packet - 2026-05-18 indicates a future potential acquisition The Planning Board discussed and recommended text amendments to the Land Use Code to define and regulate 'data processing facilities,' including data centers and cryptocurrency mining operations. The amendments allow such facilities as a use with additional requirements in the heavy industrial district, and establish requirements for height, noise, buffering, signage, and minimum distance from schools, churches, and residential areas. Staff analysis identified only two parcels in the heavy industrial district that might be suitable for a data center. While no specific project or applicant is mentioned, the explicit regulatory preparation and discussion of potential impacts (noise, proximity, etc.) indicate the Town is anticipating and preparing for possible proposals from data center operators or technology infrastructure companies. If a data center project is proposed, it would likely require substantial capital investment, construction, technology procurement, specialized consulting (environmental, engineering, security), and ongoing facility services. The regulatory groundwork being laid now increases the likelihood of a future solicitation or RFP for such a facility.