St. Joseph Considers Moratoriums on Data Centers, Apartment Development
The city of St. Joseph, Minnesota, is considering a moratorium on data center development to study potential impacts on infrastructure, water, and electricity resources. Mayor Adam Scepaniak and Council Member Kelly Beniek support a temporary halt for educational purposes, while Councilman Andrew Mooney expresses concerns about infrastructure capacity. The discussion follows a similar one-year moratorium recently passed by nearby Waite Park.
The St. Joseph City Council is contemplating a moratorium on new data center developments, driven by the rapid expansion of artificial intelligence and the associated demand for server infrastructure. During a recent work session, Mayor Adam Scepaniak and Council Member Kelly Beniek expressed support for a temporary halt, viewing it as an opportunity to research how other municipalities handle data center growth and assess potential impacts on city resources, water supply, and the environment.
Conversely, Councilman Andrew Mooney voiced opposition, citing uncertainty about the city's current infrastructure and water capacity to support such facilities, as well as potential financial repercussions on residents' electricity bills. The discussion follows a precedent set by nearby Waite Park, which recently enacted a one-year moratorium on data centers. The St. Joseph council also considered a separate moratorium on apartment complexes to review infrastructure needs and housing affordability. Both potential moratoriums are framed as protective measures to ensure well-planned development.