Pownal will consider a five-year permitting pause on data center facilities
Pownal's Select Board is considering a five-year moratorium on data center permits amid concerns that the former Green Mountain Race Track site could be developed into a large facility. Supporters cite potential impacts on water resources, electricity demand, energy costs and the town's ability to regulate the project.
The Pownal Select Board is considering a five-year permitting moratorium for data centers after rumors that the 144-acre former Green Mountain Race Track site near Route 7 may attract a large facility. The property is near the Hoosic River and is believed to have substantial groundwater resources, prompting concerns about water quality, cooling demand and other environmental impacts.
Board member Jeannie Alexander said a moratorium would give Pownal time to develop zoning and other safeguards. State Sen. Seth Bongartz and Rep. Jonathan Cooper supported the town's concerns, while criticizing Gov. Phil Scott's veto of a state data center regulation bill that would have addressed water use, noise and public-interest requirements. Scott has argued Vermont already has sufficient environmental regulations for data center permits.