Linden Proposes Ordinance to Prohibit AI Data Centers
Linden officials plan to introduce an ordinance to prohibit AI data centers across all city zoning districts due to concerns about their environmental impact, demands on electricity and water infrastructure, and contributions to noise and greenhouse gas emissions. Mayor Derek Armstead stated this development type is not suitable for the city after a comprehensive review.
Linden, New Jersey, is moving to prohibit artificial intelligence data centers across all of its zoning districts, citing significant environmental and infrastructural concerns. City officials, including Mayor Derek Armstead and Council President Michele Yamakaitis, are slated to introduce an ordinance to this effect at an upcoming meeting. They argue that AI data centers place excessive demands on local electricity and water systems, contribute to pollution, noise, and greenhouse gas emissions, and are incompatible with the city's quality of life.
Mayor Armstead emphasized that the decision followed a thorough review, concluding that this type of development is "not right for our city." Council President Yamakaitis added that the ordinance is the "clearest way to communicate that AI data centers are not appropriate for Linden." The city references data from the U.S. Department of Energy and a United Nations University report, highlighting the accelerating energy and water demands of AI and data centers globally, with projections showing significant increases in U.S. electricity consumption by 2028.
Sixth Ward Councilman Eloy Javier Delgado also linked the proposed prohibition to broader climate change concerns, stating it's a way to avoid exacerbating the problem locally and to send a message to state and national leaders about the need to evaluate environmental consequences. The ordinance is intended to support Linden's efforts to protect residents and resources, and to plan for responsible future development.