Holyoke City Council votes to ban data centers in city
The Holyoke City Council has voted 9-4 to ban new data centers within the city by amending its Zoning Ordinance. This measure prohibits new development while allowing an existing high-performance computing center to continue operating under a 12-megawatt cap. Supporters argue the ban protects city resources, while opponents fear it may hinder economic development.
The Holyoke City Council has officially voted to ban all new data centers within the city limits. The decision, passed with a 9-4 vote, involves an amendment to the Holyoke Zoning Ordinance to define "Data Center" and explicitly state that such use is not permitted anywhere in the city.
This new measure prevents any future data center development. However, it makes an exception for the existing Massachusetts Green High Performance Computing Center, allowing it to continue operations with a 12-megawatt power cap. The move has generated debate, with proponents asserting that the ban is crucial for safeguarding the city's resources. Conversely, those against the ban have expressed concerns that it could limit potential economic development opportunities for Holyoke.