Housing and Permitting Committee Committee Staff Summary
The committee discussed Resolution 2026-299 regarding data center regulation, specifically urging the City Administrator to refrain from signing non-disclosure agreements and to implement transparent public processes for data center siting. Key discussion topics included definitions of data centers under the Zoning Code, policy considerations such as economic development, job density, environmental impacts like energy and water usage, and the City's legal options for exploring a moratorium or zoning restrictions. Public testimony highlighted concerns regarding transparency, natural resource impacts, potential utility cost increases, and public health, ultimately leading to the approval of an amendment clarifying the Council's intent to pursue a moratorium on hyperscale data center zoning restrictions.