Boston.com

The Everett Planning Board unanimously endorsed an ordinance on April 6 to significantly restrict data center development within the Everett Docklands Innovation District (EDID), a 100-acre redevelopment site. The proposed zoning amendment would require a special permit for data centers and cap facilities at either 20,000 square feet or five megawatts of capacity, whichever is smaller. Additionally, data centers would only be allowed as an ancillary use within a larger development to promote site activation, with projects subject to Planning Board review for noise, water, electricity, and job creation criteria. This move positions Everett as one of the first municipalities in Massachusetts to proactively regulate the rapidly expanding data center industry, amidst growing statewide and national backlash. Neighboring Lowell recently approved a temporary moratorium on new data center development, while Governor Maura Healey has expressed support for more data centers rather than a ban. However, activist groups nationwide cite concerns about noise, air pollution, and strain on local resources, with a Harvard study linking Virginia data centers to significant health-related costs. Everett officials, including Planning Director Matt Lattanzi and Planning Board member Stephanie McColaugh, emphasize the ordinance as an environmental justice measure. They note Everett's history as a "dumping ground for Greater Boston's industry" and highlight strong public opposition, evidenced by a petition with over 1,200 signatures. The developer for the EDID, The Davis Companies, has not proposed a data center, but the city aims to act preemptively before any such project is formally introduced. The ordinance now requires two approvals from the City Council, with officials hoping Everett's approach might inspire clearer statewide standards for data center development.