- Local governments are beginning to push back against the unchecked expansion of data centres.
- Local governments are considering outright bans on data centers.
Scarborough and Westbrook consider banning data centers
What happened
Scarborough and Westbrook officials proposed amending their ordinances to prohibit data centers in the interest of protecting community resources. Scarborough Town Council discussed banning data centers in every zoning district, adopting the definition used by the Greater Portland Council of Governments. Scarborough had previously passed a 180-day moratorium in June due to concerns about power, water, noise, and infrastructure strain.
From pressherald.com
Why it matters
The proposals signal local government pushback against the expansion of data centers. These potential bans and moratoriums could limit high-tech investment and economic opportunities in the affected areas.
Local governments are beginning to push back against the unchecked expansion of data centers.
From pressherald.com
Who's involved
- ScarboroughScarborough is considering amending its zoning ordinance to prohibit data centers.
- WestbrookWestbrook is proposing amendments to prohibit data centers.
- Greater Portland Council of GovernmentsGreater Portland Council of Governments provides operational definitions that Scarborough plans to adopt.
Who could feel it
Possible knock-on effectsThese are possibilities Brind reasoned out, not predictions, and not advice. Most are not stated in any report.
- WestbrookSpeculative
Westbrook could face limits on high-tech investment and economic development opportunities due to regulatory action.
Keep exploring
The entities involved
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Scarborough
district in Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Nothing else this week.
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Greater Portland Council of Governments
nonprofit organization in Portland, United States
Nothing else this week.