Hillsboro weighs two-phase data center limits as moratorium continues
The Hillsboro City Council is considering a two-phase plan to limit data center development while a 120-day moratorium remains in effect. Proposed measures include restricting data centers in most zones, capping acreage in industrial areas, requiring setbacks from schools and parks, and addressing power demand, water use, noise and emissions.
The Hillsboro City Council has begun reviewing a two-phase framework for regulating data centers during a 120-day moratorium on new development. The first phase would prohibit data centers in most city zones, limit acreage in two industrial zones and require facilities to be at least 1,000 feet from schools.
A second phase would establish development standards, including height and setback limits, green-building requirements and buffers from parks and natural areas. Resident Britt Holloway urged the city to evaluate power demand, water consumption, noise, emissions and impacts on farms and neighborhoods, while acknowledging that well-designed facilities could reduce some harms. The council is scheduled to hold a second reading and public comment on Oct. 20.