Paris passes data center permitting moratorium resolution
The Paris Town Board in Kenosha County, Wisconsin, unanimously passed a resolution calling for a 12-month data center permitting moratorium. While officials acknowledge the resolution is largely symbolic due to the town's lack of independent zoning authority, it serves as a formal request to the state and county to review zoning ordinances and impacts before further data center development.
The Paris Town Board in Western Kenosha County, Wisconsin, unanimously approved a resolution on Tuesday, formally requesting a 12-month moratorium on data center permitting. Town Chairman John Holloway stated that while the resolution is largely symbolic because Paris, as a town, operates under county zoning and cannot enact its own moratorium, it serves as an important statement from the community.
The resolution urges the State of Wisconsin, Kenosha County, and its municipalities to undertake a comprehensive review of zoning ordinances and other applicable statutes pertaining to data centers. Concerns cited include the large footprint, significant energy and water consumption, and the rapid pace of "mega data center" construction before their full impact and sustainability can be thoroughly assessed. The resolution specifically calls for a review of definitions, siting requirements, use classifications, performance standards, environmental protections, and public infrastructure considerations related to data centers.