Lawrence City Commission approves 2-year data center moratorium
The Lawrence City Commission unanimously approved a two-year moratorium on large-scale data centers, extending a previous one-year proposal. This pause allows city staff to develop long-term code changes and regulations for data center development. Public speakers voiced concerns about the moratorium's strength and an exception process, with some advocating for a permanent ban.
The Lawrence City Commission on Tuesday unanimously enacted a two-year moratorium on large-scale data centers in the city, an extension of an initial one-year proposal. This decision aims to provide city staff with sufficient time to study the complex issue and draft comprehensive regulatory changes to the city's land development code, which currently permits extensive data center development in various zones without public input. Planning and Development Services Director Jeff Crick highlighted the significant staff resources required for this task, potentially impacting other city projects.
Mayor Brad Finkeldei confirmed the commissioners' prior support for the moratorium, which drew over 75 attendees to the meeting. Many residents, including public commenter Katie Hasty and Michael Almon of the Sustainability Action Network, advocated for a stronger moratorium without exceptions. Concerns were also raised about a proposed exception process that would allow data center applications, which Deputy City Attorney Randy Larkin explained was included to mitigate legal liability for the city and ensure due process for landowners. Public speakers also urged the commission to formally define "data center" as part of the code amendment work, citing potential impacts on water, electricity, and quality of life. Commissioner Mike Dever suggested leveraging research and regulatory language from other US localities.