The Mooresville Board of Commissioners meeting on May 5, 2025, focused heavily on community concerns regarding a proposed rezoning for a data center project on Patterson Farm Road. Residents expressed strong opposition, emphasizing the potential negative impacts on the rural character of the area, environmental concerns, and the long-term implications for the community.

The meeting began with public comments, where several residents voiced their apprehensions about the rezoning. Scarlett, a local resident, urged the commissioners to gather more facts and ensure transparency before making a decision that could affect the community's future. She emphasized the importance of preserving rural values.

Darren Jones, a resident of Patterson Farm Road, shared his personal experience with commuting and the challenges posed by traffic. He highlighted his background in IT and expressed concerns about the environmental impact of data centers, suggesting that they are typically located in industrial parks or remote areas, not in residential neighborhoods. Jones warned that approving the rezoning could lead to regrettable consequences for the community.

Alice Oler, another resident, likened the situation to "The Wizard of Oz," urging the commissioners to look beyond the promises of economic benefits and consider the potential downsides of the data center. She raised questions about the sustainability of such a project, particularly regarding water and energy consumption.

Jay Goodman also spoke against the proposal, calling for independent studies to assess the potential risks to the environment and infrastructure before any decisions are made. He stressed the importance of understanding the full impact of the project on the rural area.

Donna Jones echoed these sentiments, urging the commissioners to postpone any decisions until more data is available. She expressed concerns about the long-term consequences of the data center, including noise pollution and the potential for the area to become an eyesore.

Sarah Deaton, representing LP Commercial Properties, requested a delay in placing the project on the agenda, citing recent lawsuits related to data centers as a reason for further investigation.

The meeting concluded with a clear message from residents: they are seeking more information and a thorough evaluation of the proposed data center's impact on their community. The Board of Commissioners will need to weigh these concerns carefully as they consider the future of Patterson Farm Road and the surrounding area.