County Executive Melissa Agard signs resolution putting pause on data center development
Dane County Executive Melissa Agard has signed Resolution 039, enacting an 18-month moratorium on new data center development in areas under the county's zoning authority. This pause aims to allow county leaders, staff, and community members to study the impacts of large-scale data center projects on land use, natural resources, energy demand, and water use. The county will use this period to determine if additional planning tools, policies, or zoning standards are required for future development.
Dane County Executive Melissa Agard has officially signed Resolution 039, implementing an 18-month moratorium on new data center development within areas where Dane County holds zoning authority. This decision provides a crucial period for county leaders, staff, and community members to thoroughly assess the potential impacts of large-scale data center projects.
Agard stated that the pause is necessary for making thoughtful decisions about land use, natural resource protection, and future planning as the county grows. She acknowledged that while data centers offer opportunities for innovation and economic growth, they also pose significant challenges related to energy demand, water consumption, infrastructure strain, and long-term land use. She emphasized the importance of balancing these factors without creating unnecessary barriers to responsible development.
The resolution specifically applies to 26 towns under county zoning, but it does not affect the six towns that have opted out of county zoning, nor the 20 villages and eight cities that manage their own zoning regulations. This targeted approach allows the county to develop informed policies tailored to areas directly under its jurisdiction.