Fairbanks borough mayor proposes temporary data center moratorium
Fairbanks North Star Borough Mayor Grier Hopkins proposed a temporary moratorium on permits for large data centers through the end of 2027. The proposal follows public concerns and would give borough officials time to develop regulations for facilities using at least 5 megawatts of electricity or covering more than 50,000 square feet.
Fairbanks North Star Borough Mayor Grier Hopkins proposed a temporary moratorium on land-use permits for large data centers through the end of 2027. The measure is intended to give officials time to develop rules through the borough’s comprehensive planning process while addressing potential benefits and impacts of the facilities.
The proposal followed public outcry over data center development. The borough assembly sent the ordinance to the Borough Planning Commission, which has 90 days to make a recommendation. The proposed moratorium would cover facilities using 5 megawatts or more of electricity or occupying more than 50,000 square feet.