Bucksport approves temporary data center ban
Bucksport’s Town Council voted 5-2 to enact a six-month moratorium on new data center developments while the town researches the industry and considers new regulations. The pause affects a vacant former paper mill site that has drawn interest from Beacon Data Centers and Kratos Data Centers, though no formal applications have been filed.
The Bucksport Town Council approved a six-month moratorium on data center development after weeks of debate and a favorable public hearing. Supporters said the pause would give the town time to study data centers and update local regulations, while opponents argued that a blanket ban could discourage redevelopment of the largely vacant former Verso paper mill and send an unfriendly signal to investors.
The mill site is mostly owned by Whole Oceans, which has proposed a land-based fish farm but has not begun construction. Town Economic and Community Development Director Rich Rotella said Whole Oceans remains committed to that project while also meeting with other potential buyers. Beacon Data Centers contacted the town in 2025, and Kratos Data Centers toured the site this summer, but neither has submitted an application.
The moratorium passed 5-2, with councilors Ed Rankin and Teri Doty opposed. The measure could be rescinded in fewer than six months if regulations are updated, although the council may also extend it. Debate centered on data centers’ electricity demands and potential noise and environmental impacts, as well as whether smaller facilities should be treated differently from larger projects.