Reno City Council extends data center moratorium
The Reno City Council has extended a temporary moratorium on new data center applications until August 31, 2027, or until new city regulations are adopted. This decision, approved by a 6-1 vote, aims to allow time for the development of comprehensive rules addressing concerns like utility strain, water consumption, noise, and air quality. The move comes amid growing opposition to data centers in Nevada and internal council debates over the political motivations behind the timing of the vote.
The Reno City Council voted to extend a temporary moratorium on data center development until August 31, 2027, or until new, comprehensive regulations are adopted. The measure passed with a 6-1 vote, with Councilmember Kathleen Taylor casting the sole 'no' vote. The council's decision comes amidst growing opposition to data centers across Nevada and concerns about the strain these facilities place on local utilities and resources, including energy and water.
Councilmember Devon Reese, who requested the moratorium vote and is a mayoral candidate, defended the timing, stating the community seeks certainty regardless of election cycles. However, the vote drew criticism for being politically motivated, with two council members running in a competitive mayoral primary. Councilmember Meghan Ebert voiced community distrust, suggesting the moratorium was a campaign tactic despite appreciating Reese's shift in stance.
While Councilmember Taylor opposed the moratorium, she affirmed her support for responsible regulations concerning water usage and energy consumption. Separately, the council unanimously voted to begin the process of establishing specific data center permitting regulations. Current data centers and those already under construction, such as the Oppidan Data Center and Keystone Data Center, will not be affected by the extended moratorium. Council members, including Naomi Duerr and Mayor Hillary Schieve, emphasized the need for thorough, comprehensive regulations rather than rushed decisions, acknowledging the time required for such an undertaking.