Springfield P&Z considers data center definitions and moratorium
Springfield’s Planning and Zoning Commission recommended adding data center definitions to the city’s land development code and extending the existing data center moratorium. Both measures will go to the Springfield City Council, with the moratorium extension proposed to move its expiration from November 17 to February 24.
The Springfield Planning and Zoning Commission approved recommendations to establish three data center classifications in the city’s land development code: accessory, micro and large-load facilities. City planning officials said the definitions would help staff classify data centers and develop future standards, but would not themselves regulate where or how facilities could be built.
The commission also unanimously recommended extending Springfield’s data center moratorium, currently scheduled to expire Nov. 17, until Feb. 24. Public comments were largely opposed to data centers, with some speakers seeking a one-year extension, while another criticized excessive regulation. The recommendations will be considered by Springfield City Council on Oct. 26, and city staff said revised definitions may return to the commission in December.