Easthampton approves 18-month moratorium on data centers
Easthampton’s City Council approved an 18-month moratorium on new data center construction while the city develops permanent regulations. The measure directs the Planning Board and ordinance subcommittee to study permitting, water use, noise, energy demand and other impacts; no data centers are currently proposed in the city.
Easthampton City Council approved an 18-month moratorium on new data center construction, temporarily amending the city’s zoning ordinance while permanent rules are developed. The Planning Board and the council’s ordinance subcommittee will study permitting standards and potential requirements concerning water use, noise and energy demand. Smaller accessory equipment under 2,500 square feet, along with repairs and limited expansions of existing equipment, remains allowed.
The measure was drafted by Planning Director Allyson Manuel and City Council President Koni Denham and received unanimous support from the Planning Board. Councilor Kiam Jamrog-McQuaid and Mayor Salem Derby cited growing national concern about data centers’ community, climate and infrastructure impacts. The action follows a statewide executive order by Gov. Maura Healey giving municipalities more authority over data centers and a pause on new applications, while other Massachusetts communities consider similar restrictions.