East Bridgewater Town Meeting Approves 24-Month Data Center Moratorium, $250,000 Public Safety Study
East Bridgewater town meeting voters approved a 24-month moratorium on new data centers, replacing an initial proposal for a permanent ban. Officials cited potential impacts on the town’s water supply and electric system, while also approving $250,000 for a police and fire facilities feasibility study.
Voters at East Bridgewater’s Oct. 7 special town meeting approved a 24-month moratorium on new data centers after Planning Board chair Kevin Reilly proposed replacing a permanent prohibition with temporary restrictions. Town Counsel John Clifford said the moratorium would give the community time to review forthcoming state guidance and assess potential effects on the town’s water supply and electric system.
The measure passed after procedural disputes over competing amendments and definitions. Residents also debated and approved a separate citizen-sponsored ban on most town use of automated license-plate readers, and voters approved $250,000 for a police and fire facilities feasibility study.