Orangetown, NY, considers data center moratorium amid community opposition to DataBank expansion
Residents in Orangetown, New York, are actively opposing DataBank's proposed Phase 2 data center expansion, citing noise, energy, and environmental concerns. The Orangetown Town Board is considering a local moratorium on new data centers, coinciding with a statewide moratorium bill. The Orangetown Planning Board is scheduled to review DataBank's application on July 8.
Residents in Orangetown, New York, are actively opposing a proposed Phase 2 expansion by DataBank, citing significant concerns over noise, energy consumption, and other environmental impacts on residential areas. David Rosen, an opposing neighbor, described the living conditions as "hell" due to the proposed project.
The Orangetown Town Board recently convened, with residents in attendance, to consider enacting a local moratorium on new data center developments. This local initiative is happening concurrently with discussions around a statewide moratorium bill that could also affect DataBank's expansion plans.
DataBank CEO Raul Martynek defended the project in an exclusive interview with News 12, arguing that data centers are essential for modern life and provide substantial tax revenue to the community. Martynek also expressed concern that the data center industry is being unfairly targeted. Orangetown Supervisor Teresa Kenny acknowledged the rapidly evolving public sentiment and the town's efforts to address these concerns.
The Orangetown Planning Board is slated to review DataBank's Phase 2 application on July 8, indicating a crucial upcoming decision point for the controversial project.