Warren City Council passes one-year moratorium on large-scale data centers
Warren City Council has unanimously passed a one-year moratorium on large-scale data center development. This decision allows city leaders to study the potential impacts on power, water, traffic, noise, and infrastructure costs, and to develop new zoning policies.
The Warren City Council in Ohio has unanimously approved a one-year moratorium on large-scale data centers. This decision, announced by WKBN's Lindsey Watson, provides city leaders with time to meticulously study the potential effects of such developments on critical aspects including power, water, traffic, noise, environmental concerns, emergency services, and infrastructure costs.
Third Ward Councilman Greg Greathouse explained that this legislation empowers Mayor Doug Franklin to appoint a Data Center Review Committee. This committee will consist of members with various levels of expertise and will have nine months to develop a policy document that will govern future data center construction within the city. Mayor Franklin emphasized the importance of this work, noting that it's a critical issue for many communities across Ohio.
The move follows an earlier push in July by Councilwoman Helen Rucker for a permanent ban, which was tabled. Mayor Franklin clarified that the moratorium is not a rejection of data centers but rather a proactive step to prepare, given that current zoning codes do not address data centers. The goal is to establish parameters and a framework to protect the city's assets and citizens' quality of life. The public will also have an opportunity to provide input before any permanent regulations are considered.