Hooksett Planning Board weighs data center moratorium for Ma...
Hooksett’s Planning Board is considering a one-year moratorium on data center development for voters to decide in March. Members cited concerns about water consumption, limited water capacity and the need for clearer regulations, while the proposal remains under review.
The Hooksett Planning Board is weighing a one-year moratorium on data center development that could appear on the March town meeting ballot. Board members said the pause would give the town time to develop regulations and guardrails, though no developer has expressed interest in building a data center in Hooksett.
Members Jarrod Williams and Christopher Stelmach supported exploring the moratorium, while Town Councilor Jim Sullivan also indicated support. Member Yury Polozov warned that overly broad restrictions could reduce commercial demand and shift more of the tax burden to residents, and urged the board to define what qualifies as a data center.
Water availability is a central concern because data centers can use substantial amounts of water for cooling. Hooksett has historically faced drinking-water concerns, including uranium and radon in groundwater, while its two water precincts have limited capacity. Southern New Hampshire Planning Commission planner James Vayo is conducting additional research before presenting land-use options, and the board plans to continue discussions and hold required public hearings if it pursues ballot measures.