Milwaukee Plan Commission Unanimously Approves Data Center Moratorium

The City of Milwaukee's Plan Commission unanimously voted to enact a one-year moratorium on new data center establishment and advancement, or until the city's zoning code is amended to formally define and regulate data center development. The decision, made on Monday, September 29, 2026, aims to address significant implications posed by rapid data center growth, including impacts on energy and water infrastructure, the environment, public health, safety, and welfare.

During the meeting, commissioners and attendees raised questions regarding the precise definition of data centers and the scope of the ordinance, which Assistant City Attorney Joseph Dobbs could not definitively answer at the time. A public hearing also took place, revealing majority support for the ordinance.

Ryan Brooks, general manager, and Jeff Johnson, chief operating officer of Potawatomi’s Data Holdings arm—which operates a 46,000-square-foot data center in Milwaukee—expressed support for the measure. They believe it will help regulate hyperscale developments that often don't adhere to the sustainable operating standards, such as solar power and water-saving practices, used by Data Holdings. Milwaukee Ald. Alex Brower also backed the ordinance, noting opposition from the Metropolitan Milwaukee Association of Commerce.

While the ordinance has passed through both the Plan Commission and the Zoning, Neighborhoods and Development Committee, it still requires approval from the city’s Common Council to become effective. If passed, it would prevent new applications for data center establishment, construction, or expansion, and a separate, pending ordinance would establish a long-term regulatory framework for these facilities.