Henrietta proposes zoning changes for data centers, following state’s moratorium
Henrietta leaders are proposing permanent zoning changes for future data center projects in the town. This initiative follows New York State's enactment of a one-year moratorium on large-scale data center construction, providing local officials time to develop sustainable regulations. Town Supervisor Stephen Schultz aims to address concerns regarding energy and water consumption while ensuring data centers contribute positively to the town's infrastructure and tax base.
Henrietta leaders are actively considering permanent zoning changes for large-scale data center developments within the town, a move spurred by Governor Kathy Hochul's recent signing of a bill that enacted a one-year statewide moratorium on data center construction in New York.
Henrietta Town Supervisor Stephen Schultz indicated that the state-level moratorium offers the town a crucial window to establish new laws addressing potential issues associated with data centers, particularly their substantial energy and water requirements. Schultz emphasized a proactive approach, stating that while the town is not inherently against data centers, it seeks to mitigate the problems they can create. The proposed regulations would permit large-scale data centers only in areas capable of supporting them and would mandate sustainable construction practices, requiring developers to improve existing infrastructure.
Schultz also highlighted potential benefits such as increased tax revenue, estimating that data centers, valued between $100 million and $5 billion, could reduce Henrietta residents' taxes by 1.5% or more. This local legislative effort runs parallel to ongoing discussions in other areas, such as Genesee County, where residents have voiced opposition to a proposed $19 billion data center project.