Woodruff City Council Approves Data Center Ban
Council unanimously passed a zoning change that removes data centers and crypto mining as allowed uses in industrial districts.
On second reading, Woodruff City Council voted unanimously to revise the zoning ordinance so that data centers and cryptocurrency mining are no longer an approved use in the industrial district. Mayor Kenneth Gist said the ordinance gives such projects no pathway into the city.
Several residents who spoke at the public hearing were concerned that the Board of Zoning Appeals could still grant a variance. Some also said the city shares too little information online. Assistant City Manager and Planning Director Brandon McMahan said state law requires an appeal process. He added that under this ordinance, any variance would have to come back to council for approval.
At the same meeting, council authorized up to $150,000 for two new police vehicles. City Manager Lee Bailey said the River Bend Athletic Complex is expected to be finished in spring 2027.