Springfield is hosting two public engagement sessions to gather input on data centers as part of a broader effort to evaluate the city’s existing regulations and develop a policy framework. The first session will take place on August 27 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the DoubleTree by Hotel, and the second is scheduled for September 1 from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at The Library Center’s Hatch Auditorium.
Background
The city’s 120-day moratorium on new data center applications was approved by the Springfield City Council on June 29 to provide city staff time to collect public input and develop regulations to govern the potential development of data centers. Currently, there is no definition of ‘data center’ in Springfield’s city code.
Residents are encouraged to attend the engagement sessions, which will feature information stations staffed by subject matter experts providing information on potential data center regulations regarding electricity and water usage, sound and air quality, public safety, land use, and potential community benefits. Attendees will be able to ask questions, fill out comment cards, and take surveys.
The growth of data centers has been met with opposition from residents across the country, prompting elected bodies to adopt moratoriums or permanent bans. In addition to Springfield, several local governments have also adopted moratoriums, including Seymour, Webster County, and Stone County.
Original reporting: Springfield Daily Citizen — read the source article.
