Dane County Board of Supervisors votes for temporary stop on permits for data centers in unincorporated areas
The Dane County Board of Supervisors has voted to approve an 18-month moratorium on zoning permits for hyperscale data centers in the county's unincorporated areas. This temporary halt is intended to allow for a study of the environmental, economic, health, and safety implications of these facilities. The resolution now awaits consideration and signature from County Executive Melissa Agard.
The Dane County Board of Supervisors in Wisconsin has approved an 18-month moratorium on new zoning permits for hyperscale data centers within the county's unincorporated areas. The decision, made in Madison, aims to provide local authorities with time to thoroughly evaluate the environmental, economic, health, and safety impacts associated with large-scale data center developments.
County Board Chair Patrick Miles emphasized the need for a pause, citing significant community concern regarding potential proposals advancing without adequate information for proper evaluation. The moratorium specifically targets towns under county zoning, excluding cities, villages, or towns that manage their own zoning regulations. The approved resolution now requires the consideration and signature of County Executive Melissa Agard to take full effect.