Buffalo delays data center moratorium vote
The Buffalo Common Council has tabled a vote on a proposed two-year data center moratorium, rescheduling it for mid-next month. Council members did approve the creation of a nine-member task force to assist with the issue. The moratorium aims to allow the city time to update zoning codes and address concerns about noise and energy consumption.
The Buffalo Common Council has delayed a decision on a proposed two-year data center moratorium, postponing the vote until the middle of next month. This moratorium is intended to provide the city with an opportunity to update its zoning codes and ordinances while also addressing growing concerns about noise and energy consumption associated with data centers.
Despite tabling the vote, council members moved forward with the approval and establishment of a nine-member task force. This new body will be charged with assisting the city in all related decisions and actions concerning data center development.
The local discussion in Buffalo follows a broader trend in New York, as Governor Kathy Hochul signed a statewide one-year moratorium on data centers back in July, highlighting an increased focus on regulating the industry at both state and municipal levels.