The Municipality of Cumberland has approved a temporary halt on the establishment of data centers specializing in artificial intelligence. The council’s unanimous first reading of a bylaw on Tuesday initiates a six-month moratorium on development permit applications for such data centers.
During the meeting, Coun. Jennifer Houghtaling expressed concerns voiced by residents regarding the potential impact of data centers on water and electricity consumption, both on their daily lives and the environment. Houghtaling emphasized the need for an informed decision, citing comparisons to other regions like Alberta.
Following a similar move by Oakville, Ont., Cumberland Mayor Rod Gilroy stated that his council is pioneering such measures in Nova Scotia, pending the drafting of appropriate regulations. He stressed the importance of being proactive and making well-informed decisions.
The issue was first raised in June when residents raised objections to a land purchase in Malagash by Ontario-based company 3Sha Infotech Inc. The municipality’s Chief Administrative Officer, Greg Herrett, explained that the moratorium is a precautionary step based on community concerns, as there have been no formal inquiries or applications received yet.
Local resident Kate Dunn supported the decision, highlighting potential disruptions to rural life, such as noise, stemming from the operation of AI data centers. Dunn emphasized the need for careful consideration of the value and impact of these facilities on the community.
As AI data centers continue to proliferate in North America, opposition towards them is growing. Recent polls indicate significant public skepticism towards these facilities, with calls for stringent government regulations to address environmental and economic concerns.
The second reading of the bylaw, expected to follow a public hearing in September, would further solidify the moratorium on data center applications in Cumberland. The municipality aims to carefully evaluate the implications of such facilities on the local community and environment.