Data center ordinance in effect after public meeting in Rochester
The city of Rochester, New Hampshire, has enacted an ordinance to prohibit data centers, which came into effect after a public meeting. The ordinance defines conditional use permits, and future amendments will be reviewed by the city Planning Board. Mayor Chuck Grassie and residents expressed strong support for limiting data center development due to concerns over water, energy, and environmental impacts.
Rochester, New Hampshire, has implemented an ordinance prohibiting data centers following a public meeting on Tuesday. The ordinance, proposed by the City Council, aims to define conditional use permits more clearly regarding data center development. Mayor Chuck Grassie expressed a strong desire to prevent data centers in Rochester, citing the need for the city to be proactive in addressing potential impacts.
During the public meeting, every speaker supported the limitations on data centers, with many advocating for even stricter amendments to the ordinance. Concerns were raised regarding the unknown impacts of data centers on water usage, energy consumption, and the environment. Matthew Viger, a local student and resident, highlighted the rise and impacts of AI data centers and voiced his support for the city's protective measure.
Residents also hoped that Rochester's precedent would encourage other New Hampshire communities to enact similar protective measures. The city Planning Board is set to review future amendments to the ordinance.