Portland councilors explain why city isn't starting with data center moratorium
Portland city leaders are explaining why they are focusing on a resolution regarding non-disclosure agreements for data center projects instead of immediately pursuing a moratorium. They view this as a quicker step towards transparency, while also acknowledging potential future code changes to ban NDAs and ongoing state-level discussions for a three-year moratorium.
Portland city leaders are explaining their decision to prioritize transparency around data center development rather than implementing an immediate moratorium. The Portland City Council committee recently advanced a resolution concerning non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) in data center projects, advocating for public negotiations.
Councilor Candace Avalos stated her team believes starting with public view for negotiations is a quicker solution. While the resolution urges the Mayor and City Administrator to avoid NDAs, it doesn't legally prohibit them. Avalos noted that a future step could involve changing the city code to ban NDAs more broadly, with limited exceptions for proprietary information.
Councilor Tiffany Koyama Lane explained that a local moratorium would only last 120 days and require renewal. She also highlighted efforts at the state level by Oregon lawmakers to introduce a three-year moratorium during the next legislative session.
Although Oregon State lawmakers are planning discussions, Tina Kotek's office indicates the state currently lacks authority for a statewide moratorium but supports local action. The resolution on NDAs still requires a full City Council vote.