Genoa extends data center moratorium to develop ‘defensible’ noise rules

Genoa Township trustees unanimously voted to extend their six-month moratorium on new data center and cryptocurrency mining applications. The extension, which will last another six months or until a new ordinance takes effect, is intended to allow officials more time to collect baseline sound data and develop enforceable noise regulations. Township Manager Kelly VanMarter stated the additional time is crucial for ensuring the proposed noise provisions are defensible.

The board approved up to $15,000 for Memtech Acoustics, a Rochester Hills-based firm, to conduct ambient sound testing across industrial, commercial, and residential areas of the township. This decision follows concerns raised by a resident, a qualified sound engineer, and Memtech itself, that earlier draft noise provisions would be difficult to enforce, particularly regarding low-frequency and continuous hum noises. Memtech emphasized that a lack of baseline data could lead to an ordinance that either bans lawful businesses or fails to control the intended noise.

During the discussion, Trustee Bill Reiber questioned if the goal was to make data center development "unappealing or difficult." Township Supervisor Kevin Spicher clarified that the objective is to "protect the residents," citing primary concerns about power consumption, water consumption, noise, and vibration. Township Attorney Joe Seward cautioned against deterring specific land uses, emphasizing that the focus must remain on the health, safety, and welfare of the township.

The township is also considering how its ongoing master plan process might influence future data center locations, though officials confirmed the master plan sets future land use and does not directly change current zoning. The moratorium extension applies only to new applications, retaining exceptions for previously approved agreements.