Houghton City Planning Commission Discusses Data Center Moratorium
The Houghton City Council heard that its planning commission discussed placing a moratorium on data centers in the city. City Manager Eric Waara stated the discussion is for due diligence, while City Councilor Brian Irizarry cautioned against acting too quickly due to evolving technology.
The Houghton City Council met to discuss various city matters, including an update on the Bridge Street resurfacing project. City Manager Eric Waara reported the project, which involves repaving Bridge Street and constructing a new sidewalk, began Monday and is expected to be completed by September. Waara also informed the council that two downtown businesses, Rhythm Bike Shop and Armando's Restaurant/Douglass House Saloon, are slated to receive Michigan Economic Development Corporation March on Main grants.
During the meeting, Waara announced that the City's planning commission recently discussed placing a moratorium on data centers. While no developers have approached the city, Waara emphasized that the discussion is a proactive measure for due diligence, ensuring the city is prepared with appropriate ordinances should future data center developments arise. City Councilor Brian Irizarry expressed caution against implementing a moratorium too quickly, noting the rapid advancement of data center technology which is leading to smaller, more efficient facilities. He referred to data centers as 'predatory' but still advised against hasty action.