Akron looks to slow data center growth with new approval process
The Akron City Planning Commission approved a measure to require a special conditional use permit for new data centers, changing the current zoning code. This initiative, supported by residents concerned about environmental and health impacts, will now go to the City Council for a final vote. If approved, future data center projects in Akron will need public hearings and council approval, along with providing detailed information on environmental impacts.
Akron resident Abigail Drennen has expressed concerns regarding the potential health and environmental impacts of hyperscale data centers, including increased instances of asthma and hypertension, higher energy consumption, and negative effects on mental health. She supports a city initiative to establish stricter regulations for data center development in Akron.
The Akron City Planning Commission unanimously approved a proposal to modify the city's zoning code, mandating that data centers obtain a special conditional use permit before construction. This change would require a public hearing and City Council approval for all new data center projects, a departure from current rules that permit data centers in industrial zones without additional oversight. The measure is slated for review by the City Council later this month.
If the proposal passes, future data center developers would be required to provide the city with details on electric and water usage, conduct noise studies, and submit information on proximity to residential areas and backup electric supplies. This regulatory shift follows a recent $4.5 million tax break awarded to ark data centers for an expansion in Akron and Independence, a project that will proceed under existing regulations. According to Akron Planning Director Kyle Julien, while ark data centers' ongoing expansion is unaffected, all subsequent projects will be subject to the new, more stringent approval process.