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Committee reviews 12‑month moratorium and new definitions for data centers
Summary
Committee members reviewed a proposed 12‑month moratorium on medium and large data centers and new size-based definitions (small <500 kW; medium 500 kW–10 MW), with concerns raised about cooling, water use, noise and measurement challenges for small businesses.
Staff recommended a 12‑month moratorium on medium and large data centers while the county refines definitions and performance standards; the draft definitions would exempt small, in‑house server rooms (under 500 kilowatts) but cover containerized or purpose-built facilities that consume larger amounts of power.
Supervisors and members of the public raised concerns about cooling systems, noise, and water use for larger facilities and noted practical challenges for small businesses in reporting power usage. Staff said the moratorium text came from corporate counsel and that definitions will likely be revised after outreach to associations and legal review. “The moratorium shall be in effect for a period of 12 months,” staff said; committee members asked staff to bring town association feedback back to the August meeting.
