Roselle Park introduces ban on data centers and adopts resolution seeking details on nearby Kenilworth project

Roselle Park’s governing body moved on May 21 to restrict large-scale data-center development inside the borough and to press for transparency about a nearby project in Kenilworth.

The council introduced Ordinance No. 2860, which would amend Chapter 40 (Land Use) to add a broad definition of "Data Center" (including hyperscale facilities, colocation, cloud computing infrastructure, cryptocurrency mining and AI processing) and to expressly prohibit such uses in every zone district. The ordinance text describes data centers as facilities that generally require substantial electrical capacity, backup generation, cooling systems and mechanical equipment. The council voted to introduce the ordinance and set a second reading and public hearing for June 18, 2026; the measure will be referred to the Municipal Land Use Board for a master-plan consistency review as required by N.J.S.A. 40:55D-26.

Separately, the council amended and adopted Resolution No. 111-26 asking for inter-municipal coordination and more information about a large data-center project proposed (and under construction, per amended text) in neighboring Kenilworth by CoreWeave. The amended resolution requests a liaison protocol and an operational fact sheet to the extent public information is available, and asks for data on projected electrical and water demand, backup generator testing schedules, noise attenuation measures, truck routes, and relevant environmental, traffic, noise and infrastructure studies. The council directed the clerk to forward a certified copy to Kenilworth officials, the Kenilworth Planning Board, County of Union, state agencies, utility providers and CoreWeave representatives.

Mayor Joseph Signorello said he has been engaged with residents and CoreWeave representatives, and that CoreWeave committed to hold a town-hall meeting to answer community questions. The resolution passed after council amendments clarifying the borough’s requests and encouraging independent third-party evaluation where appropriate.

Why it matters: Data centers can have regional impacts on electrical grids, water and noise levels. Roselle Park’s ordinance would prevent such uses within its borders; the resolution seeks transparency and coordination about a nearby development that could affect Roselle Park residents.

What’s next: Ordinance No. 2860 will be reviewed by the Municipal Land Use Board and return for a public hearing and vote on June 18. The clerk will send the amended resolution and requests to Kenilworth, CoreWeave and relevant agencies.

(Reporting based on the May 21, 2026 Borough of Roselle Park meeting.)