Bangor councilors place temporary ban on data center development

The Bangor City Council in Maine has unanimously enacted a six-month temporary ban on all new data center developments. This decision, fast-tracked by waiving a two-reading requirement, was prompted by "increased development pressure" and concerns that existing ordinances do not adequately address the unique demands and potential impacts of data centers. Councilor Susan Faloon highlighted the need to avoid negative impacts and unintended consequences, emphasizing that data centers are "new territory" for the area. The moratorium will allow city officials to develop and implement necessary amendments to the Land Development Code, which currently lacks provisions for the specific infrastructure demands, environmental concerns, impacts on neighboring properties, and operational characteristics of data centers. Faloon specifically noted concerns regarding data centers' high electricity and water consumption for cooling, stating the city needs to ensure adequate resources. The ban could be extended beyond six months if further time is deemed necessary by the council, adhering to state laws. This local action comes as the state of Maine is also considering a statewide moratorium on data centers, which would be a first of its kind in the United States.