Southbridge boards to hold public hearing on zoning bylaw changes and proposed data center moratorium
A public hearing was held by the Southbridge Town Council and Planning Board on September 16, 2026, to discuss proposed zoning bylaw amendments. Key proposals included modifications to solar and battery energy storage system regulations and the introduction of a temporary moratorium on data centers. Residents voiced strong opposition and environmental concerns, particularly regarding heavy metals, water tables, noise pollution, and increased electricity expenditure. A company, Blue Sky Utility, expressed interest in developing battery storage. The discussion highlighted challenges in balancing state mandates with local control and the critical role of the fire chief in future approvals.
A joint public hearing of the Southbridge Town Council and Southbridge Planning Board was convened on September 16, 2026, to address significant proposed changes to the town's zoning bylaws. The agenda focused on three key areas: amendments concerning solar installations, new regulations for Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS), and the introduction of a temporary moratorium on data centers. This hearing, held in accordance with Massachusetts General Law, Chapter 40A, Section 5, aimed to gather public input and deliberate the implications of these proposed regulatory shifts for the town.
Council member Ste raised several points regarding solar regulations, including the need for clearer definitions of accessory use and building-mounted installations to ensure power usage is localized. He also stressed the importance of explicitly mentioning environmental considerations, such as wetlands and vernal pools, in site plan submissions. Katie, a conservation agent, confirmed that existing conservation permits would still be required, noting that the proposed changes streamline the permitting process. During public comments, resident Steve Stella, a former solar engineer, voiced strong environmental concerns, particularly regarding the potential for heavy metal leakage from ground-mounted solar systems and its impact on the water table, urging for robust monitoring.
The discussion then moved to the proposed bylaws for Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS). Charles Jenkins, representing Blue Sky Utility, indicated his company's interest in developing BESS facilities in Southbridge and sought clarification on the draft's timeline and compliance with state guidelines. Public speakers, including Tiffany, Stephanie Rivers, Jedadiah Marino, and Angela Gavin, expressed significant apprehension. Their concerns ranged from potential chemical fire hazards, noise pollution, increased electricity costs for residents, and the perceived cumulative burden on Southbridge if multiple facilities were approved, especially given a nearby proposal in Charlton. They also questioned the benefits for the town compared to the profits of corporations and the limited local authority due to state mandates.
Planning board member Mr. Lo provided technical clarification, explaining that BESS systems are primarily for grid stabilization and peak demand response, storing excess renewable energy rather than consuming it. He also assured the public that robust safety systems prevent overloads and that Southbridge's proposed bylaws include a local provision for the fire chief's explicit review and approval, a safeguard beyond state mandates. The board emphasized that while state directives necessitate these bylaw changes, they are actively working to "massage" the regulations to provide the best possible protection and control for the town, ensuring that safeguards are in place from the outset.