Why Woodburn voted to enact a moratorium on data centers in city
The Woodburn City Council unanimously enacted a 120-day moratorium on new data center applications, effective until January 12, 2027. This decision provides the city time to develop regulations after learning developer Verrus was looking at property within its urban growth boundary. Community feedback strongly supported the moratorium, and Oregon's Governor has proposed a statewide moratorium.
The Woodburn City Council unanimously voted 6-0 on September 14 to enact a 120-day moratorium on new data center applications, halting consideration until after January 12, 2027. This action was prompted by news that data center developer Verrus was exploring a property within the city's urban growth boundary for a potential project, although no official application had been filed.
Woodburn City Manager Scott Derickson stated the moratorium provides the city crucial time to develop regulatory frameworks for data centers, including reviewing existing codes and determining how such projects could be supported or regulated. The moratorium can be extended for up to six months. Community feedback strongly favored the moratorium and expressed opposition to data centers, with residents like Dagmar Kinne advocating for a longer pause to allow for more data collection and deliberation.
This local action aligns with broader state-level discussions, as Governor Tina Kotek has voiced support for a three-year statewide moratorium on new data centers, with a proposal expected to reach the state legislature in the 2027 session. Woodburn had previously adopted an ordinance in June designating data centers as a conditional use within its Southwest Industrial Reserve Area and has since hired Thomas Consulting Group to assist in reviewing and potentially amending its development code regarding data centers.