Athens Town Board Approves Urgent Moratorium on Data Centers

BREAKING: The Athens Town Board has just approved a six-month moratorium on the development of data centers, a decision made during a meeting on Monday, July 17, 2023. This urgent measure aims to provide officials with necessary time to draft regulations governing the facilities, responding to environmental concerns raised by residents.

During the public hearing preceding the vote, only one resident spoke, expressing strong support for the moratorium. Sarah Steimel, a Sleepy Hollow resident, emphasized the need for caution regarding data centers, highlighting their potential harmful impact on local communities. “I think sometimes it’s impacting communities before a full assessment of their impact is realized,” Steimel stated, voicing her concerns about energy consumption and the release of PM 2.5, fine particulate matter that poses serious health risks.

The Town Supervisor, Michael Pirrone, acknowledged these environmental and safety concerns, noting they are shared by both residents and first responders. “There are environmental concerns, and safety concerns,” he said. Pirrone explained the Board’s intention to formulate meaningful regulations together with the Planning Board and Zoning Board of Appeals.

Pirrone added that the town aims to implement planning and zoning regulations that could potentially include state funding for first responder training linked to these facilities. He mentioned possible limitations on land and structure size, as well as restrictions on power requirements and natural resources.

Despite the growing concerns, Pirrone clarified that there are currently no proposals for data storage centers in Athens. “There are rumors, they are only rumors,” he stated. “No concrete evidence has been presented at the town level, and no inquiries have been made regarding the development of these facilities.”

Steimel expressed her appreciation for the moratorium, reinforcing the importance of proactive measures before any developments take place. The Board’s decision signals a critical step towards ensuring community safety and environmental protection in the face of rapid technological advancement.

As this situation develops, the Athens Town Board is expected to continue discussions on regulations surrounding data centers. Residents are urged to stay informed and engaged as new information becomes available on this pressing issue.