Henrietta proposes town code change for data centers
The Town of Henrietta, New York, is proposing changes to its local laws to bring data centers under incentive zoning, requiring them to provide community benefits like upgrading substations. This proposal comes amidst a statewide freeze on new "hyperscale" data centers enacted by Governor Hochul, though Henrietta's changes would apply to smaller facilities not covered by the state's moratorium.
The Town of Henrietta in New York is considering a significant change to its local laws regarding data centers. Town officials and the town board explained during a meeting that the proposed amendment would place data center developments under incentive zoning regulations.
Under this new framework, the burden of proof would shift to the applicant, requiring them to demonstrate how their project would provide community benefits. For instance, while data centers can adversely affect the local power grid, the proposed code change would mandate that developers upgrade substations to enhance the town's power infrastructure. The town has stated that applications unwilling to provide such community benefits will be denied.
The proposal follows Governor Hochul's recent statewide freeze on new "hyperscale" data centers. Henrietta officials clarified that their local code changes are still relevant as the state's moratorium applies specifically to larger data centers, leaving smaller facilities subject to local regulations.