Property Owners Sue Smithfield Over Data Center Ban
Property owners seeking to develop a data center in Smithfield are suing the town, arguing that its recently enacted ban on data centers is unlawful. Town officials and residents oppose the facilities because of concerns about wildlife, natural resources and potential health impacts.
Property owners who want to develop a data center in Smithfield have sued the town, challenging the legality of a recently enacted ban on data centers. The lawsuit places the town’s development restrictions at the center of a dispute over whether the project can proceed.
Town Councilor Rachel Toppi said most residents do not view data centers as a good fit for Smithfield. She cited the proposed development’s proximity to Audubon land, wildlife and other natural resources, as well as broader community concerns about potential health effects associated with data centers.