Pierce Township extends data center moratorium
Pierce Township trustees have extended a moratorium on data center development until May 31, 2027, giving the township more time to update zoning codes and gather community input. This decision followed a proposal from Crane Data Centers, which was met with opposition from residents and trustees concerned about the impact on the rural character of the area.
Pierce Township trustees voted to extend a moratorium on data center development until May 31, 2027, following a proposal by Crane Data Centers to build a facility near the former Beckjord power plant. The decision was met with applause from a packed room of residents.
Allen Freeman, Chair of the Board of Trustees, stated that the township is not considering a data center at this time and expressed surprise at Crane's presentation, having learned about their intentions through local reporting. The extension aims to provide the township's planning and zoning department more time to gather community input and adjust zoning codes to better prepare for such proposals, as many communities are ill-equipped to handle the influx of data center interest.
Freeman, along with fellow trustee Nick Kelly, voiced skepticism about the benefits data centers claim to bring, such as trails or dog parks, emphasizing a desire to protect the township's rural charm. Residents at the meeting echoed this sentiment, with Chris Wood, whose property borders the proposed site, expressing concerns about noise. While some residents like Scott Lyons were open to economic development on the old power plant site, and Mark Williams highlighted potential societal benefits, the trustees remained firm in their stance.
Crane Data Centers has not yet submitted any formal applications, and it remains unclear if they will continue their pursuit of the 300-acre site. The township's planning and zoning commission plans further discussions on October 6 to consider placing additional restrictions on land for data center development.