Aurora leaders to vote on indefinite data center moratorium as neighbors oppose Trident data center
Aurora leaders are preparing to vote on an indefinite moratorium preventing new data center applications while the city develops updated regulations. The proposed pause would not affect the Trident data center, which is already in the application process and faces opposition from nearby residents concerned about noise and pollution.
Aurora Mayor Mike Coffman called a special City Council meeting to consider an indefinite moratorium on new data center applications. Ward II Council Member Amy Wiles is sponsoring the proposal, which would remain in effect until the city adopts regulations governing issues such as the distance between data centers and residential neighborhoods. Coffman said the moratorium is intended to prevent future projects similar to Trident, not to permanently prohibit data centers or halt projects already in the city’s system.
Residents near the proposed Trident facility, including Reserve community resident Ray Czaplewski, oppose the project and cite concerns about constant low-frequency noise, diesel generators and pollution. Dan Diorio of the Data Center Coalition warned that broad moratoriums could create economic uncertainty and urged communities to establish clear rules in cooperation with the industry; he specifically identified Vantage Data Centers as a member company and described it generally as a responsible operator.