Mayor Gerard introduced a resolution directing the planning commission and staff to examine data center zoning, public engagement and potential regulatory questions; Commissioner Tenney moved the measure and a second was recorded. The motion passed after discussion and direction to staff to scope questions and obtain cost estimates for any study or consultant work.

The meeting featured more than a dozen public comments on data centers. "Data centers don't create enough jobs to justify such a large scale project," said Marilee White (1119 Fraser Street), who raised water and pollution concerns and referenced an "independent fiscal analysis." Paul Kleinau (1713 10th Street) told the commission he supported a moratorium while the city rewrites its zoning: "Doing anything regarding these projects while that is happening would be absolutely premature." Justin Palmerville, business manager for UA Local 85, said Bay City lacks large available sites for mega centers and urged fact-based evaluation and recognition of closed-loop water systems.

Other public speakers urged a range of responses: some sought an outright ban, others recommended strict limits on water and power usage, environmental protections, setback and noise rules, and community benefit agreements. Trade representatives urged caution with moratoria because they may shift proposals to nearby jurisdictions and could have regional impacts on opportunity and jobs.

Commissioners discussed practical constraints: limited available land within city limits for large data centers, debt and capacity stress on utilities, and the need to consult subject-matter experts. City staff agreed to provide a memo summarizing what they can answer in-house and to obtain quotes for any external study; commissioners asked staff to scope questions so consultants can quote the work needed. The resolution directs planning staff to start the review and public-engagement process; no zoning prohibition was enacted at this meeting.

The commission's action was procedural: it authorized staff study and further public engagement, not an immediate approval or ban of any specific data center project.