Ban on data centers among policy options expected to be considered by Springfield City Council in January
Springfield officials are considering either prohibiting data center development under a defined framework or creating new regulations governing data centers and utilities. The proposals, along with a possible 120-day extension of the city’s application moratorium, are scheduled for Planning and Zoning Commission review in January before public hearings and a City Council vote.
Springfield officials are preparing policy options for data center development, including a potential prohibition defined by city code and an alternative regulatory framework. The framework could amend the Land Development Code and establish separate utility-related requirements.
The Planning and Zoning Commission is expected to consider the options Jan. 7, followed by a City Council public hearing Jan. 19 and a final vote Jan. 26. The council has also considered bills that would extend the city’s moratorium on accepting and processing data center applications for 120 days, through Feb. 24, 2027, amid ongoing legal challenges.