Massena votes down proposed data center moratorium in split vote; clears way for NCCS’s 400 MW facility
The Massena Town Board voted against a proposed six-month moratorium on new data centers, clearing the way for NCCS's 400 MW data center project. This decision was made despite local residents raising concerns about electricity and water usage, and the environmental impact. The project will now proceed without a temporary pause on development.
The Massena Town Board rejected a proposed six-month moratorium on new data centers in a 3-2 vote, thereby allowing the NCCS company to move forward with its planned 400-megawatt facility near the former Alcoa East plant. Town Supervisor Raymond Lancto and board member Kristy Baker supported the moratorium, while three other board members voted against it.
The decision comes after months of debate in St. Lawrence County, with numerous residents attending public meetings to voice concerns. Opponents cited potential strains on electricity and water resources, along with the environmental impact and the growth of artificial intelligence. NCCS stated its project would not be affected by the state's current moratorium on certain large data centers, as it does not require additional discretionary permits from the state Department of Environmental Conservation, and plans to use a closed-loop cooling system to minimize water consumption.
While some local business owners argued against the moratorium, fearing it would deter investment, supporters emphasized the economic benefits, including new jobs and revenue for the community. The vote does not mean immediate construction but establishes a clear path forward for the NCCS project by eliminating a temporary pause on data center development in Massena.