Xenia Council passes data center moratorium
Xenia City Council unanimously passed a one-year moratorium on data center developments within city limits. This measure provides time for the city to research and develop appropriate zoning regulations, as the current code does not address data centers. Officials emphasized a proactive approach to prevent issues seen in other communities.
The Xenia City Council has unanimously enacted a one-year moratorium on the establishment and commencement of data centers within the city, following a vote at its most recent meeting. City Manager Brent Merriman explained that the temporary ban is intended to prevent the city from being compelled to approve data center projects without sufficient preparation and updated regulatory frameworks.
Merriman highlighted that Xenia's existing zoning code lacks specific provisions for data centers, and the moratorium will allow officials to conduct research and identify suitable standards and regulations for such facilities. Law Director Donnette Fisher indicated that a data center project is unlikely in Xenia currently and praised Mayor Ethan Reynolds for proactively addressing the issue, citing the difficulties faced by Urbana after land had already been sold for similar developments.
Mayor Reynolds, who introduced the ordinance on June 11, reiterated his stance against data centers in Xenia, stating that the moratorium is a step toward developing zoning that could prevent or restrict their presence. Councilmember Rachel Huffman supported the measure, noting ongoing state-level discussions in Columbus and advocating for a cautious approach. The ordinance passed unanimously with no public comments during the hearing.