Haring considers moratorium on construction of data centers
Haring Township officials are discussing proactively amending zoning ordinances to prevent data center construction and considering a six-month temporary moratorium on new projects. Residents and officials are concerned about water and electricity usage by data centers. A vote on the moratorium is planned for next month.
Haring Township officials are actively exploring measures to restrict or potentially ban data center construction within the township due to resident and official concerns regarding high water and electricity consumption. On Monday, the Haring board of trustees discussed amending local ordinances to prevent future data center developments, with Township Supervisor Bob Scarbrough comparing them negatively to solar panel and wind turbine farms in terms of community benefits.
As an immediate step, the board is considering a six-month moratorium on all new data center projects. Board member Molly Whetstone inquired about the feasibility of banning data centers similar to recreational marijuana dispensaries. However, Township zoning administrator Mike Green noted that state zoning laws generally require municipalities to allow most industrial uses if deemed reasonable, and the state encourages data center construction through incentives.
The board has directed Green to prepare a resolution for the proposed moratorium, which will be put to a vote next month while the township attorney investigates the legality of a total prohibition.