Public hearing in Canton shines light on community concerns following closure of paper mill
February 14, 2026
Residents of Canton, North Carolina, find themselves at a crossroads as they face uncertainties in the aftermath of the closure of the Pactiv Evergreen Canton paper mill, also known as the heart of the town for 115 years. A recent public hearing on a proposed data center moratorium shed light on the concerns and anxieties of the community, with Mayor Zeb Smathers seeking to address misconceptions and provide clarity on the issue.
Contrary to rumors circulating on social media, Mayor Smathers clarified that there was no immediate plan to establish a data center at the former paper mill site. On the contrary, the Board of Aldermen was considering a one-year ban on the development of data centers and Bitcoin farms in an effort to safeguard the town’s interests and prevent any disruptive changes to its character.
Expressing the town’s concerns about the potential impact of data centers, Mayor Smathers emphasized the need for swift action to protect Canton from unforeseen challenges. The public hearing, attended by approximately 200 residents, served as a platform for community members to voice their opposition to the establishment of a data center in Canton, particularly on the site of the former mill.
The unanimous decision by the Board of Aldermen to implement a year-long moratorium on data center development reflects the town’s commitment to preserving its identity and heritage. Mayor Smathers highlighted that the moratorium was a proactive measure to address the perceived threats posed by data centers, which have been viewed as disruptive to the fabric of small-town life.
Canton’s stance on data centers aligns with similar initiatives undertaken by other counties and municipalities in North Carolina, including Buncombe, Cherokee, Clay, Madison, and McDowell counties. These regions have recognized the importance of regulating data center development to maintain the quality of life and economic stability of their communities.
The concerns raised during the public hearing underscore the deep-rooted attachment of Canton residents to their town’s history and traditions. The pivotal role that the paper mill played in the community’s social and economic fabric for over a century has left a void that residents are grappling with as they navigate the transition to a post-industrial era.
While the future remains uncertain, the solidarity displayed by the residents of Canton in advocating for the preservation of their town’s heritage is a testament to their resilience and determination. As discussions continue on the potential impact of data centers on Canton’s landscape, one thing is clear – the spirit of community and unity that defines Canton will guide its path forward in the face of change and adversity.