Cambridge officially imposes data center moratorium
The City of Cambridge, Minnesota, has officially imposed a one-year moratorium on data center construction within city limits. This measure will allow city staff to conduct extensive research, develop appropriate ordinances and city codes, and monitor potential state-level legislation regarding data centers.
The Cambridge City Council in Minnesota has unanimously approved and officially enacted a one-year moratorium on the construction of data centers within its city limits. This decision comes after initial research by city staff, revealing a gap in state regulation surrounding data centers.
According to Marcia Westover, Community and Economic Development Director, the moratorium will provide essential time for the city to conduct more extensive research, leading to the development of appropriate ordinances and city codes. The council also hopes that new state legislation might emerge during this period to address regulatory gaps. Westover noted that staff had examined proposed data centers in other Minnesota cities like Pine Island, Monticello, and Hermantown.
The city aims to thoroughly investigate the potential benefits, such as tax base growth and employment opportunities, against frequently voiced negatives associated with data centers. A key focus will be defining what constitutes a 'regular' data center versus a 'hyperscale' data center to ensure any future ordinances are tailored appropriately, especially considering the need for city utility extensions and potential land annexation for larger projects.