Dane County Board introduces resolution on pause for data center development
The Dane County Board introduced a resolution proposing an 18-month moratorium on zoning permits for data centers in areas subject to county zoning. This pause aims to allow the county's Advisory Committee on Data Centers to complete its research on impacts like energy use and water resources. The committee's findings will inform future policy decisions regarding data center development.
The Dane County Board has introduced Resolution 2026 RES-039, which proposes an 18-month moratorium on zoning permits for data center placement within Dane County, Wisconsin. This pause would specifically apply to towns under county zoning authority, excluding cities and villages that have their own zoning codes.
County Board Chair Patrick Miles stated that the moratorium is intended to provide the Advisory Committee on Data Centers sufficient time to complete its research into the complex questions surrounding data center development, including energy and water resource demands, long-term land use, and the implications of artificial intelligence. Miles emphasized the need for data-driven policy decisions, citing concerns about potential project proposals before thorough research is concluded.
The resolution, introduced on May 15, has been referred to the Zoning and Land Regulation Committee for further review and consideration.