KALAMAZOO, MI (WKZO AM/FM) – Kalamazoo city commissioners will consider imposing a moratorium on data centers and may take additional steps beyond that.
They took up the issue for the first time last night.
They not only want to impose the moratorium but also want to learn just how far they can go to protect the community from the negative impacts of high-tech construction projects.
Attorney Aaron Leal says a moratorium is a relatively simple action.
Leal was directed to make a presentation at the commission’s next meeting on their options, legal requirments, and opportunities.
Commissioner Chris Praedel says the concern is clear, with municipalities nationwide looking at the impacts of a range of high-tech firms.
He says Kalamazoo has a limited supply of buildable land available.
Vice Mayor Drew Duncan says he would like to see a two-year moratorium.
Commissioner Jae Slaby also wanted to know if they could take additional steps to make city zoning, which currently allows such facilities, more restrictive.
City Manager Malcolm Hankins says the moratorium is the first step. Once it is in place, they will have time to look into all the other issues and options.
There are currently no firms looking at sites in the city, just a local marijuana grower who is offering to sell his grow operation in Milwood, claiming it is properly zoned and has the utilities for a data center.
Commissioners will take the next step toward imposing the moratorium at their 5 p.m. Committee of the Whole meeting on August 10th.
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