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Board discusses state data-center moratorium and local implications
Summary
Members noted Legislative action on a moratorium (LD 307) for large data centers and discussed local considerations — energy and water demands, old-mill sites, and limited local employment benefits — while taking no formal action.
During the workshop the board briefly discussed LD 307, a legislative measure imposing a temporary moratorium on data centers of 20 megawatts or greater, and potential local ramifications.
A board member reported that the bill passed the Legislature and was on the governor’s desk. Members discussed common concerns about such facilities: high power and water demands, cooling needs, and limited local employment despite potential tax revenue. One member noted old mill sites may be attractive for such projects because they often have existing power and water infrastructure, but cautioned that these uses are capital- and resource-intensive and may require dedicated power arrangements.
The board did not take action but asked staff to monitor the bill’s progress and consider example ordinance language from other municipalities (including a recently completed battery and data-storage ordinance referenced during the meeting) if local regulation becomes necessary.
