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Rockaway council introduces ordinance to ban data centers in all zoning districts
Summary
Council introduced Ordinance O2623 to prohibit data centers in all zoning districts; after public comments both for and against the restriction, the motion to introduce carried on a 7–1 roll-call vote. The ordinance is at introduction stage, not final adoption.
Council President Howard Morrison announced the introduction of Ordinance O2623 on June 9, a measure that would amend the township land-use code to designate data centers as a prohibited use in all zoning districts.
The measure was met with multiple public comments in support. Kathleen Corrosa told the council she commended the ordinance’s “proactive stand,” and other residents noted environmental concerns including large water demand, continuous noise and increased impervious surface if data centers locate in the township. One resident who identified herself as a former member of the township environmental committee cited industry estimates of high cooling-water demand and expressed concern about noise and habitat impacts.
In council debate Council member Voytovich recorded a “no” on the roll-call introducing motion; the clerk recorded seven votes in favor and one opposed and President Morrison announced that the motion to introduce carried. Council member Wovich later argued the ordinance as written was “too prohibitive,” noting the township’s 46 square miles and suggesting the council could craft standards that protect residents while allowing limited, mitigated development in appropriate areas.
The introduction is the first procedural step; no final adoption occurred at this meeting. The council did not provide an immediate timetable for public hearings, amendments or second reading. The ordinance text and any proposed amendments will determine whether specific exceptions or mitigation requirements (for cooling, noise, water use and energy offsets) are allowed before a future final vote.
What happens next: the ordinance has been introduced and will return to the council for subsequent readings and any public hearings required by township procedures.
