The Municipality of Cumberland is progressing with a temporary ban on data centers that facilitate artificial intelligence. During a council meeting, a bylaw proposing a six-month moratorium on data center development permit applications unanimously passed its first reading. Councilor Jennifer Houghtaling highlighted residents’ concerns regarding the potential impact of data centers on water and electricity consumption, both on their lives and the environment.
Mayor Rod Gilroy expressed proactive measures, stating that the council is the first in Nova Scotia taking this direction while regulations are being formulated. The issue arose after concerns were raised by Malagash residents over a land purchase by a Mississauga-based company, 3Sha Infotech Inc., which owns farmland in Upper Malagash.
Cumberland’s Chief Administrative Officer, Greg Herrett, emphasized that the moratorium is a proactive step based on community concerns, as there have been no inquiries or applications received at this point. He mentioned that staff cannot entertain any applications related to data centers post the first reading, with the second reading of the bylaw anticipated after a public hearing in September.
Local resident Kate Dunn supported the pause on AI data centers, citing concerns about the facilities’ impact on rural life in Cumberland County. She stressed the need for careful consideration of the value and implications of AI expansion. Dunn also raised the possibility of provincial intervention similar to past instances with wind turbine setbacks.
As the prevalence of AI data centers grows in North America, opposition towards them also escalates. Public sentiment, as reflected in an Angus Reid poll, indicates significant concerns over the construction of large AI data centers near residential areas and a call for stringent government regulations.
In conclusion, amid the increasing presence of data centers across the country, municipalities like Cumberland are taking proactive steps to address community concerns and ensure informed decision-making regarding AI-related developments.
