Bellevue Village Board passes data center moratorium
The Bellevue Village Board unanimously passed a temporary 12-month moratorium on data centers, amending its Zoning Code. This decision followed a public hearing where community members voiced concerns about potential environmental impacts, including water and electricity usage, pollution, and electromagnetic fields. The moratorium aims to give the village time to research these impacts before making permanent decisions.
The Bellevue Village Board has unanimously passed a temporary 12-month moratorium on data centers, amending chapter 500 of the village's Zoning Code. The measure, enacted on August 12, temporarily blocks the development or construction of data centers within Bellevue, Wisconsin.
Village Administrator Benjamin Krumenauer clarified that moratoriums are temporary tools designed to allow the village more time to research the impacts of data centers and make informed decisions. He noted that Wisconsin state regulations permit a moratorium of up to 12 months, with a possible six-month extension.
During a public hearing, numerous community members expressed strong support for the moratorium, citing concerns about potential negative environmental and community impacts. Resident Kathy Lane specifically mentioned preventing environmental degradation, fossil fuel and noise pollution, water supply issues, and surging electrical bills. Other concerns raised included electromagnetic fields and the need for policy to prevent board members from entering into non-disclosure agreements with developers.
Trustee Jackie Krull suggested that the board should examine restrictions on all developments that consume significant natural resources, not just data centers. The moratorium is set to expire in August 2027.