Everett moves to rein in data centers as pushback grows across Massachusetts

The Everett Planning Board unanimously endorsed a proposed zoning ordinance on April 6 to restrict data center development within the city's 100-acre Docklands Innovation District (EDID). The measure, which now requires two approvals from the Everett City Council to take effect, seeks to proactively regulate the rapidly expanding data center industry in Massachusetts. The current zoning code allows data centers by right in the EDID. The proposed amendment would require data center proposals to obtain a discretionary special permit and cap facilities at 20,000 square feet or five megawatts of capacity, whichever is smaller. Additionally, any data center would need to be an ancillary use within a larger mixed-use development, a point emphasized by Everett Planning Director Matt Lattanzi, who stated the city doesn't "want to see a standalone data center, because that kills any type of activation of the site." This action by Everett comes amid increasing concern and backlash against data center development across Massachusetts and the nation, primarily due to their significant electricity and water consumption. While Governor Maura Healey has expressed support for more data centers statewide, other communities like Lowell have already approved temporary moratoriums. Planning Board member Stephanie McColaugh highlighted that Everett aims to be proactive, citing the city's history as a "dumping ground for Greater Boston's industry" without sufficient local benefit. Initial discussions considered an outright ban, but the ordinance was revised to restrict and regulate, drawing significant public support, including a petition with over 1,200 signatures. Developer The Davis Companies, involved in a mixed-use plan for the EDID, has not proposed a data center, but the city is acting to control future development. The ordinance is also viewed as an environmental justice measure for Everett, a community already burdened by industrial uses. Officials hope Everett's approach could become a model for other municipalities, advocating for clearer statewide standards to avoid inefficient, city-by-city regulatory battles.