Planning Board proposes moratorium on data center development; legal review to follow

Ed Price, chair of the Planning Board, presented a proposed Moratorium on Data Center Development and reviewed the draft language with the Select Board. The board questioned procedural next steps, including whether the moratorium requires Town Meeting approval and the timing for any special meeting if changes are made.

Daniel Kaschub pressed for a comprehensive definition of “data center” to be included in the moratorium so the scope is clear. Stephen Chase commented on including a severability clause. Board members and attendees discussed potential suitable locations for data-center facilities. Legal counsel will review the moratorium draft; the Planning Board will consider recommended edits and, if warranted, a special town meeting will be scheduled to act on the moratorium.