Lysander votes yes on 6 month data center moratorium; hundreds show up to meeting

The Town of Lysander, New York, unanimously voted to enact a six-month moratorium on new data center development, following significant community concern over a proposed AI data center. The decision, announced by Town Supervisor Kevin Rohde to an overflowing meeting of over 300 residents, will halt the acceptance of any new data center applications by the Town Board, Planning Board, and Zoning Board of Appeals. Residents expressed strong opposition, citing worries about increased electrical bills, potential toxic emissions, water usage, noise, vibrations, and the "heat island effect" on both the community and local wildlife. The proposed development was described as a hyperscale data center, which could consume around 50 megawatts annually, equivalent to powering 5,000 homes. During the moratorium, the Town of Lysander plans to study the potential impacts of data storage facilities on infrastructure, environment, public health, and community character, including zoning and economic implications. Supervisor Rohde also announced plans to form a committee to draft a new local law governing future data center developments, reflecting the community's desire to preserve its small-town character.