Kalamazoo to consider moratorium to halt data center development

The city of Kalamazoo, Michigan, is currently debating a proposal for a one-year moratorium on new data center and cryptocurrency mining developments. The initiative, introduced by City Attorney Aaron Leal, also includes battery storage facilities.

According to an agenda report from the city attorney, data centers could significantly impact the area through high water consumption and substantial noise pollution. Members of the public voiced their concerns during the city commission meeting, highlighting the immense power consumption often powered by gas turbine generators, leading to pollution and noise. They also argued that such developments raise costs for residents while creating only temporary construction jobs and few permanent positions for local community members.

The discussion follows months of community pushback against data center proposals in other West Michigan communities, including Lowell, Gaines, and Soland Townships. City commissioners have begun their deliberation, and a decision on whether to pass the moratorium in Kalamazoo is anticipated to be made tonight.