Assemblyman pushes governor to sign moratorium bill
Assembly member Jonathan Rivera is urging Governor Kathy Hochul to sign a bill that would enact a one-year moratorium on a proposed $2 billion AI data center at the former Tonawanda Coke site in Western New York. Residents and environmental advocates have voiced strong opposition, citing past unfulfilled job promises and environmental pollution. The New York State legislature has already passed the moratorium bill, which seeks to delay the project and implement protections for communities.
Assembly member Jonathan Rivera, joined by residents and environmental advocates, is pressuring Governor Kathy Hochul to sign legislation that would impose a one-year moratorium on a proposed $2 billion AI data center at the former Tonawanda Coke site in Western New York. The New York State legislature has already passed the bill, responding to significant community opposition, including a recent Tonawanda planning board meeting that drew over 200 attendees.
Opponents emphasize the urgent need for the governor's signature, arguing that delays in implementing the moratorium increase the likelihood of companies pushing forward with projects without adequate community protections. Rivera highlighted past instances where companies made unfulfilled job promises, leading to waterway pollution. He noted the unprecedented unification among community members in opposition to such developments.
Governor Hochul has until December 31st to sign the bill. Until then, officials confirm that development of the data center project remains on hold. The community's stance reflects a broader rejection of development that does not prioritize local well-being and environmental safeguards.