Public shares concerns about data centers as South Bristol considers ban
South Bristol residents largely supported a proposed ban on data centers and artificial intelligence computing facilities during a packed public hearing. The town board will hold another hearing on Nov. 9 and will consider revisions before taking legislative action.
More than a dozen residents addressed the South Bristol Town Board about a proposed ban on data centers and AI computing facilities. Most speakers supported the measure, citing potential impacts on water quality, lake temperatures, vibrations, energy use, tourism and the environment. Joseph Kohler of the South Bristol Coalition of Concerned Citizens said the group strongly opposes data centers in the town.
The proposal comes as New York maintains a year-long pause on construction of large data centers. The town attorney will review public comments and draft possible revisions, including clarification that the measure would not restrict local businesses operating their own servers. A second public hearing is scheduled for Nov. 9, and no legislative action is expected before then.