Planning commission discusses data center moratorium -
The Alpena County Planning Commission discussed a potential data center moratorium after community members urged a vote on the issue. County Administrator Jesse Osmer clarified that local municipalities, not the county planning commission, hold the final authority on such developments and zoning. The Alpena Board of Commissioners is also developing a resolution to discourage data center development.
Alpena County Administrator Jesse Osmer addressed the Alpena County Planning Commission, explaining that while the county board is developing a resolution regarding data centers, local municipalities ultimately control planning, zoning, and approval for such facilities. Osmer noted that no data center companies have approached Alpena County for development, but acknowledged the region's suitability and potential concerns.
During the meeting, community members advocated for a data center moratorium, a temporary halt to development. Planning Commission Board Member Michelle Smith clarified that the commission only has an advisory role and no voting power on such matters, with townships having jurisdiction over ordinances and site plan reviews.
Osmer further explained that the county's role would be advisory even for county-owned property or rezoning, acting through a coordinating zoning committee. He stated that the county could draft a "nice letter" to municipalities, recommending they "refrain from any action that would bring those facilities into our area anytime soon." The possibility of adding moratorium language to the county master plan was discussed, which would require individual municipalities to adopt similar language.