Town of Canton to Consider Pause on Data Centers, Crypto Mining After Public Hearing
Canton, North Carolina (WLOS) - Town leaders in Canton are contemplating a moratorium on data centers and cryptocurrency mining as interest in redeveloping the former paper mill site grows. Canton Mayor Zeb Smathers noted that multiple companies have recently contacted the town, inquiring about infrastructure capacity, including water and electrical connections.
These inquiries prompted the town to schedule a public hearing and initiate a temporary halt on data centers while officials assess potential impacts. Smathers emphasized the town's current inability to engage in these conversations due to inadequate ordinances.
The Canton Town Board is expected to consider a moratorium following the public hearing, which would pause any data center development while the town evaluates environmental, infrastructure, and quality-of-life concerns. While acknowledging the potential for new tax revenue, Smathers highlighted the relatively low job creation compared to the strain these facilities can place on communities.
Data centers demand substantial electricity and cooling water to operate server rows, powering cloud storage and artificial intelligence. Rural communities across western North Carolina have increasingly raised concerns about noise, environmental impacts, and long-term infrastructure demands.
Smathers expressed a proactive approach, stating, 'We're not going to sit around until it's too late and say, 'I wish we'd done something.' This emerging technology has consequences that are dangerous enough to our people, our natural resources, and the character of our mountains to say no, at least for now.'
However, not everyone views data centers as a threat. Canton resident Steve Sutherland believes data centers represent economic opportunity, especially after the paper mill closure, which left hundreds without jobs. Sutherland argues that data centers provide construction and high-tech jobs, and their presence in Haywood County could be beneficial.
He also points to the growing role of artificial intelligence and data infrastructure worldwide, stating, 'If we don’t do it, other countries will. We need to stay ahead of that.'
While emphasizing the need for economic development, Smathers stressed that Canton must prioritize industries that create meaningful employment while protecting natural resources. He stated, 'We want jobs. We want growth, but we're not going to do that while sacrificing our water, our air, and our mountains. You can't give up what makes you special.'
Smathers noted that data centers typically bring limited permanent employment compared to their energy and water demands, making them a poor fit for Canton's long-term vision for the mill site.
The upcoming public hearing is expected to attract residents on both sides of the issue. Smathers encouraged participation, stating, 'It gives people their chance to voice their opinions. There’ll be folks who say no, folks who say yes, and folks who aren’t sure. You’ve got to bring all that together.'
He also emphasized the importance of in-person participation, stating, 'Part of democracy is showing up. Taking the podium. Calling your elected officials. This is an opportunity for people to speak directly.'
Even if some residents support data centers, Smathers emphasized the need to consider the broader community, including those who can’t attend meetings. He stated, 'Good leadership means making decisions for the people who aren’t in the room.'
If approved, the moratorium would temporarily halt data center development while Canton studies legal, environmental, and infrastructure implications. Smathers concluded, 'Most good decisions aren’t made under the gun. This gives us time to dig in and understand all the consequences before moving forward.'
The public hearing is scheduled for Wednesday, February 11, at 6 p.m. at Canton Town Hall.
