Local
Taunton blocks proposed data center as residents cite grid and environmental concerns
The City Council voted unanimously Oct. 20 to prohibit data centers, while also approving a moratorium as added legal protection. The decision could affect a proposed project at an industrial park, whose property owner sought an exception.
TAUNTON, Mass. — The Taunton City Council voted unanimously Tuesday, Oct. 20, to prohibit data centers in the city, following a packed meeting where residents raised concerns about environmental impacts and pressure on the local power grid.
The vote came amid discussion of a proposed data center at an industrial park on John Hancock Road. Property owner VMD Industrial asked Mayor Shaunna O’Connell for an exception, warning that the decision could jeopardize a multimillion-dollar deal.
The Planning Board said the property did not qualify for an exception because no permit application was pending. City leaders said the project could not be grandfathered in without an existing application. The council also approved a moratorium, which officials said would offer additional legal protection if the ban is challenged.
The prohibition has no expiration date and will remain in effect unless the city changes it through another zoning hearing, officials said.
O’Connell said the city must weigh business development against residents’ needs. “We always support business, but it has to be done the right way,” she said, adding that protecting the resources residents rely on is a priority.
Resident Willembert VanBruniswaardt said he learned about the issue through Facebook and had not received a letter. He remained wary despite the vote, saying supporters of a data center could continue pushing for one.