Alexandria City Council Enacts One-Year Data Center Moratorium
The Alexandria City Council has enacted a one-year moratorium on data center construction and expansion, as well as authorizing a study into their potential impacts. This decision follows concerns raised by city staff and utility providers regarding electricity and water usage and the need for proper planning.
The Alexandria City Council has formally enacted a one-year moratorium on data center development, including construction, expansion, and permitting applications, within the city limits. This decision, finalized at their July 10 meeting, also mandates a comprehensive study into the potential impacts of data centers on public utilities, infrastructure, and long-term economic benefits to the community.
City Planner Mike Weber highlighted that data centers have become a significant statewide issue, with many localities approving facilities without fully understanding their effects. ALP Utilities General Manager Ted Cash and Alexandria Lake Area Sanitary District Executive Director Scott Gilbertson voiced strong support for the moratorium, citing its prudence given the challenges similar organizations face. The upcoming study, to be conducted by the planning commission, city staff, and consultants, will involve testimony from local and regional utility providers, assessing staff, and economic development personnel. The findings and recommendations from this study will eventually be presented to the council for further action.