Planning Board’s industrial‑park bylaw passes after heated debate over data center setbacks

The Planning Board proposed comprehensive changes to the Industrial Park (IP) zoning article to modernize uses, add performance standards, and create specific rules for emerging infrastructure such as small clean energy facilities and data centers. The draft updated by‑right uses (e.g., breweries, fitness/recreation, creative workplaces, medical clinics under 50,000 sq ft), created special‑permit pathways for larger or more intensive uses (life sciences, data centers), and added protections for nearby residential and conservation districts.

A central and contentious change was a 1,000‑ft setback, and stronger siting/noise/monitoring requirements for data centers and certain energy infrastructure. Planning board proponents said the distance and permit requirements were intentionally cautious because modern AI‑scale facilities can operate at high electrical and water intensity and generate persistent noise, and the IP district abuts residential neighborhoods.

Opponents argued the setbacks and a 50,000 sq ft cap on by‑right buildings would effectively ban larger data centers, which can bring substantial commercial tax revenue without large employee footprints. An amendment to reduce setbacks back to the district default (50 ft), and raise the practical building size threshold to 100,000 sq ft, was moved and seconded; after extensive debate the amendment failed on an electronic vote. Supporters of the Planning Board text argued that measured siting controls protect long‑term community interests while preserving the ability to approve facilities under special permit with conditions.

Result and next steps
The IP zoning amendment passed (Moderator reported 90 yes, 32 no). The Planning Board and Select Board will oversee implementation and applicants for large/novel uses will be subject to special‑permit review that includes public engagement and technical studies (noise, water/energy impact, emergency planning).