Secaucus Residents Push For Limits On Ai Data Centers Look To State For Action
Secaucus residents are organizing against future high-powered AI data centers, citing environmental and health concerns after a fuel spill at an existing facility. The Secaucus Town Council is preparing to consider an ordinance limiting data centers in areas under municipal control, although the New Jersey Sports and Exposition Authority controls much of the town and could approve projects beyond the town's jurisdiction.
Secaucus residents gathered at a local church to oppose additional AI-focused data center development, with organizer Anny Martinez citing heightened concern after a major fuel spill at a data center earlier this year. Residents said they are worried about the environmental and health effects of expanding facilities and noted that two more data centers are already under construction.
The Secaucus Town Council is expected to hold a first reading on an ordinance limiting high-wattage, high-voltage data centers in areas regulated by the municipality. Town Attorney Nick Strasser said the ordinance would not apply to the New Jersey Sports and Exposition Authority zone, which covers much of Secaucus and leaves state officials with significant control over future development. Equinix was identified in related coverage as the operator connected to the fuel-spill incident.