Reno City Council adopts 30-day moratorium on new data centers

The Reno City Council has adopted a 30-day pending moratorium on new data center developments, aiming to establish a new set of rules for such facilities. The temporary halt, which is the first stage of a two-part process, will be in effect while city officials prepare a final moratorium for consideration by June 1. The decision followed a public meeting where residents expressed mixed opinions. Elena De La Paz of the Water Over Data Alliance and an educator, voiced strong opposition, highlighting potential long-term environmental impacts, particularly concerning water resources and local fishing. Conversely, some attendees emphasized the economic advantages of data centers, citing their contribution to tax revenue and job creation for the city. Lauren Knox, a Senior Planner with Development Services, clarified the procedural steps, noting that the adopted resolution initiates the 30-day pending moratorium. The subsequent final moratorium, scheduled for review on June 1, is expected to provide a comprehensive timeframe and more specific guidelines for data center development in Reno.