Council OKs Boutique Hotels, ‘Granny Units’ in Red Bank; Bans Data Centers
The Red Bank Borough Council has approved a ban on data centers within its borders, citing concerns over water and electricity consumption, noise, and air pollution. The council also passed a resolution supporting a proposed statewide moratorium on new large-scale data centers in New Jersey until stronger regulations are implemented. This action comes amidst escalating statewide opposition from various environmental, labor, and community groups.
The Red Bank Borough Council unanimously approved a ban on data centers within the borough's limits during its June 11 meeting, implementing it as part of a broader zoning overhaul. This decision by Red Bank officials was driven by concerns over the significant water and electricity usage, as well as potential noise and air pollution associated with data center operations.
In addition to the local ban, the council passed an "Artificial Intelligence (AI) Accountability" resolution. This resolution explicitly supports a statewide moratorium on new large-scale data centers in New Jersey until more robust regulations are established. Deputy Mayor Kate Triggiano stated that the borough is "prioritizing people" with these zoning changes.
The borough's actions reflect a growing statewide trend, as municipalities like Sayreville and Asbury Park have also imposed similar bans and advocated for a pause on new data center developments. This escalating opposition is backed by over 60 environmental, labor, and community groups across New Jersey, which submitted a letter to Governor Mikie Sherrill on May 14, urging her to halt the approval and construction of new data centers due to their substantial resource demands and community impact.