Over the past several months, the topic of proposed data centers in neighboring communities has become a significant point of discussion. At the April 6 township committee meeting, its members and I introduced an ordinance to prohibit AI data center development within Harrison Township.
While we recognize that artificial intelligence and expanding technology are shaping the future – and with the increasing demand for data centers – there are still many unknowns surrounding their development and long-term impact. Currently, our township ordinances don’t address data centers. By taking this proactive step, we are ensuring that Harrison Township remains in control of its future should such a proposal ever arise.
There are several concerns that must be addressed before we could consider allowing such facilities, including ensuring data centers are self-sufficient in their energy use and do not place additional strain on an already burdened electrical grid; requiring closed-loop cooling systems that do not rely on well or public water sources; and reviewing comprehensive data on environmental impacts from existing data centers.
We understand that data centers can bring financial benefits through tax revenue. But at this time, we’re not willing to make the township a testing ground for developers without clear, proven safeguards in place.
Should these concerns be adequately addressed in the future, and if it can be demonstrated that such developments would not negatively impact our community, we are open to revisiting the conversation. Until then, data centers will be prohibited in Harrison Township.
