Wentzville approves six-month ban on large-scale data centers
The Wentzville Board of Aldermen unanimously approved a six-month moratorium on new large-scale data centers and expansions of existing facilities. The pause will allow city officials to study potential effects on power infrastructure, water and wastewater capacity, utility costs, emergency services, noise, air quality and other quality-of-life issues.
The Wentzville Board of Aldermen voted 6-0 to temporarily block new large-scale data center projects within the city for at least six months. The ordinance covers facilities requiring at least five megawatts of electricity or 100,000 square feet, and also restricts expansions involving power demand, physical footprint, cooling, backup generation or operating capacity without board authorization.
Mayor Nick Guccione said the moratorium will give officials time to gather information and determine whether additional safeguards are needed. The action follows a similar six-month moratorium enacted by the St. Charles County Council in July; the city has no current large-scale data center proposals under consideration, according to Guccione.