New Bedford officials advance temporary citywide pause on data center development
New Bedford officials are advancing a temporary citywide prohibition on data centers while planners develop permanent rules for large AI facilities. The proposed pause reflects concerns about electricity and water demand, noise, land availability and neighborhood impacts, and remains pending before the full City Council.
New Bedford officials are moving toward a citywide pause on data center development as the city develops regulations tailored to large-scale AI facilities. Mayor Jon Mitchell proposed the measure, which was recommended by the City Council's ordinance committee after unanimous support from the Planning Board; the full City Council has yet to vote.
Planning Director Jennifer Carloni said developing permanent rules could take about a year and may address facility locations, size limits and safeguards. Officials cited pressure on electricity and water infrastructure, noise, land constraints and potential effects on nearby properties, while acknowledging that data centers could bring jobs and tax revenue. The debate follows a Massachusetts executive order requiring local approval and community benefits for data centers before state permitting, as well as similar restrictions in other municipalities including Taunton.