Greenville recommends 12-month moratorium on data centers
Greenville's Plan Commission has recommended a 12-month moratorium on data center development to allow the village to draft a permanent ordinance. This proactive measure addresses environmental concerns and community input regarding the preservation of the village's rural character. The final decision rests with the Village Board on June 8.
Greenville's Plan Commission has voted unanimously to recommend a 12-month moratorium on new data center developments within the village. The decision, made on Monday, aims to provide officials with time to draft a permanent ordinance to regulate such facilities.
The commission initially intended to create specific rules for data centers but opted for a more decisive temporary halt after discussion. Village Board President Jack Anderson, who moved the motion, highlighted environmental concerns as a key factor, stating that restricting these developments aligns with the village's best interests given their potential impacts.
The proposed ordinance will include strict requirements for future data center projects, such as mandatory public hearings, noise limits, and restrictions on energy and water usage. Residents, like Sam Tijan, expressed strong support for the moratorium, emphasizing the importance of preserving Greenville's rural character.
Village leaders confirmed that no data center proposals have been submitted yet, making this a proactive measure. The Greenville Village Board is scheduled to make the final decision on the moratorium on June 8.