Auburn lawmakers look at data center moratorium despite state's own 1 year hold
Auburn city lawmakers are considering a local one-year moratorium on data center development, despite a statewide pause, because the state's hold only covers large projects. Local officials are concerned about the water and energy demands of smaller data centers and the potential impact on Owasco Lake, a drinking water source. They are also discussing the possibility of banning data center wastewater from the city's treatment plant.
Auburn city lawmakers are actively pursuing a local one-year moratorium on all data center development within their community. This initiative comes despite New York Governor Kathy Hochul's existing statewide one-year hold on data centers, which only applies to projects consuming 50 megawatts or more. Local officials in Auburn express concern that smaller data center projects remain viable under the state's regulation, leaving local governments vulnerable to unknown impacts.
The primary concerns for Auburn's city councilors revolve around the substantial energy and water requirements of data centers, as well as the disposal of used water. Councilor Christina Calarco voiced strong opposition to a data center near Owasco Lake, a vital drinking water source, citing existing environmental challenges. City Director of Municipal Utilities Seth Jensen indicated that the city has the authority to ban specific types of wastewater, similar to past actions against natural gas hydrofracking, which councilors Terry Cuddy and Craig Diego supported for protecting downstream communities.
Mayor Jimmy Giannettino urged immediate action, highlighting federal efforts to streamline data center development, including proposed EPA rule changes that could reduce public comment requirements for air permits. Giannettino characterized these federal actions as an "all out assault" on local control, driven by powerful financial interests. The city is currently drafting legislation for its local moratorium to address these concerns.