Lansing moves toward temporary data center moratorium

The City of Lansing is in the process of proposing a temporary six-month moratorium on data center development, aligning with other Mid-Michigan communities that have adopted similar pauses. This resolution, which advanced through the Committee on Development and Planning, seeks to temporarily halt new data center construction while a new zoning ordinance is being drafted.

Councilmember Nevarez Martinez indicated that the proposed ordinance would reclassify data centers as a distinct conditional land use. This change would require developers to seek specific approval from the planning department, rather than merely acquiring industrial parcels for construction. This policy shift is largely a response to the significant community backlash received regarding the previous $120 million Deep Green Data Center proposal, which the city ultimately did not pursue.

The Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce expressed concern over the city's approach, arguing that Lansing missed an economic opportunity with the Deep Green project and is now considering a broad moratorium. However, Councilmember Martinez believes the six-month pause will afford city officials adequate time to collaborate and formulate a comprehensive strategy that both fosters innovation and ensures careful consideration of future data center proposals. The Lansing City Council members are anticipated to vote on the matter following a public hearing in July.