Woodburn council passes moratorium on new data centers - Oregon Public Broadcasting
The Woodburn City Council has enacted a 120-day moratorium on new data center developments, citing concerns over the city's water and power infrastructure capacity. This decision follows calls from residents for restrictions due to potential impacts on utility costs, public health, and agriculture. Woodburn officials will use this period to analyze environmental and regulatory impacts, with the moratorium potentially extending up to six months.
The Woodburn City Council has unanimously enacted a 120-day moratorium on new data center developments, effective Monday. This decision follows concerns raised by city officials and residents regarding the substantial water and power demands of data centers, which they fear could overwhelm Woodburn's existing infrastructure.
City Manager Scott Derickson highlighted that the water impact alone could exceed the city's capacity for a single project, and Community Development Director Chris Kerr noted the unprecedented scale of these developments. During the moratorium, Woodburn officials plan to analyze the potential environmental, regulatory, and quality-of-life impacts of data centers.
While there are no current or pending applications, California-based company Verrus had previously explored development in Woodburn, though a spokesperson stated no near-term plans. The moratorium comes amidst growing statewide debate, with Democratic Gov. Tina Kotek supporting a statewide ban and her Republican opponent, state Sen. Christine Drazan, favoring local bans. Nearby cities like Hillsboro and Salem have also implemented temporary data center bans.
Local residents, who previously petitioned the council for restrictions citing concerns over utility costs, public health, and agriculture, are now pushing for a complete ban on data centers. The council's moratorium can be extended for up to six months, allowing further assessment before permanent rules are considered.