Lysander weighs advisory committee to guide data center plans during moratorium
The Town of Lysander, New York, is forming an advisory committee to guide data center development during its recently enacted six-month moratorium. The committee will review town codes and study potential impacts, including water use and power demand, to recommend updates before the moratorium expires. Residents have voiced concerns about representation on the committee and the broader impact of data centers.
Lysander, New York, is moving forward with its response to proposed data center development by forming an advisory committee to operate during the town's six-month moratorium on new projects, which was approved last month. Town Supervisor Kevin Rode stated the committee's role will be to review current town codes, study the potential impacts of data centers, and recommend updates to local laws before the moratorium ends. This local action comes as state lawmakers also consider a year-long pause on data center development statewide.
The proposed committee structure includes four town representatives, four county or state representatives, and three community members. This composition has drawn criticism from some residents, including Glen Silver, who argued that citizens are not adequately represented. Other community members highlighted concerns about regional infrastructure and water usage, citing a recent water report suggesting a large-scale data center could consume 1.29 million gallons per day, impacting local wells.
Former Town Board member Bob Geraci urged leaders to prioritize residents' concerns, emphasizing the need for empathy and assurance that no development would cause harm. Town officials confirmed the committee will have access to technical resources from organizations like CenterState CEO, Empire State Development, and Onondaga County, which can provide information on power usage, water demand, and municipal authority limits. The committee's work is expected to significantly shape Lysander's future approach to data center proposals.