Pownal will consider a 5-year permitting pause on data center facilities
Pownal officials are considering a five-year moratorium on data center permits amid concerns that the former Green Mountain Race Track site could be targeted for a large facility. Supporters cite potential impacts on water quality, groundwater, electricity demand and energy costs, while state lawmakers say stronger data center regulations are needed.
The Pownal Select Board is considering a five-year permitting moratorium on data centers after concerns emerged that the 144-acre former Green Mountain Race Track site near Route 7 could be developed for a large facility. The property lies along the Hoosic River and is believed to have significant groundwater resources, but no buyer or developer has been identified.
Board member Jeannie Alexander proposed the pause to give Pownal time to develop zoning and other safeguards, citing water quality, electricity costs and the environmental effects of large, power- and water-intensive facilities. Sen. Seth Bongartz and Rep. Jonathan Cooper supported the town's concerns, arguing that Gov. Phil Scott's veto of a state data center bill left municipalities without adequate protections. Scott has said Vermont already has strong environmental regulations, while Bongartz said the town should use a moratorium until comprehensive statewide rules are enacted.