Tulsa City Council approves data center moratorium through end of 2024
The Tulsa City Council has approved a data center moratorium through the end of 2024 to allow time to evaluate the impact of these projects on the community. This includes assessing noise, odors, water, and energy usage, and potentially making changes to the city's zoning code. Phase two of Project Anthem, a large data center, is exempt from the moratorium and is currently undergoing its rezoning process.
The Tulsa City Council voted to enact a moratorium on new data center developments, aiming to provide city leaders with time to assess the environmental and community impacts of these projects, including concerns about noise, odors, water, and energy consumption. The moratorium is set to last until December 31, allowing for potential amendments to the city's zoning regulations.
During the council meeting, nearly two dozen residents attended to voice their support for a pause in data center construction. Councilor Lori Decter Wright emphasized the city's desire to be business-friendly while also implementing development in a smart, balanced manner. While the initial proposal was for a 365-day moratorium, the approved duration was reduced to approximately 270 days, concluding by the end of the year. The moratorium mandates regular reports from the planning office every 60 days.
Notably, phase two of Project Anthem, a significant data center project currently under construction in East Tulsa, is exempt from the moratorium, along with its first phase. Project Anthem's phase two is reportedly undergoing its rezoning process, with a Planning Commission vote anticipated on April 1. Concerns about data center development are also reportedly affecting other areas in Green Country, including Pawhuska and Sand Springs.