Lee County data center opposition remained front and center Monday night as residents filled the Board of Commissioners meeting to voice concerns about the proposed PointOne Data Center project. Citizens questioned zoning classifications, environmental impacts, noise concerns, and the overall approval process while urging commissioners to slow down development plans.
The meeting drew passionate comments from residents who said they felt ignored throughout the planning process. Several speakers challenged how the project was classified as light industrial and called for additional studies before any future approvals move forward.
Residents Continue Raising Concerns
Many residents focused on quality-of-life issues, including noise generated by large-scale data centers and the potential impact on nearby homes and rural properties. Some questioned whether adequate emergency services planning has been completed for a project of this size.
Others called for greater transparency and requested additional public input opportunities before any future decisions are made regarding the proposed facility.
Commissioners Approve Budget
While the data center discussion dominated public comments, commissioners also approved the county’s 2026-27 budget.
The approved budget keeps the property tax rate at 65 cents per $100 of assessed value. Public feedback helped reduce the originally proposed tax increase.
Commissioners also debated the need for a county performance review, which would be the first major review of operations since 2011. Supporters say the review could improve efficiency and help guide future budget decisions.
Development Rules Also Updated
County leaders approved updates to the Uniform Development Ordinance, commonly known as the UDO. The changes are designed to streamline development reviews while addressing future growth throughout Lee County.
Updates include changes to subdivision regulations, sidewalk requirements, outdoor storage standards, floodplain development restrictions, and accessory dwelling unit rules.
The changes could influence how future residential and commercial projects are developed throughout the county.
What’s Next?
The proposed PointOne Data Center remains one of the most closely watched development projects in the region. Residents are expected to continue monitoring future discussions as county leaders evaluate growth and infrastructure needs.
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Sources: Sandhills News | Lee County Government
