Committee tables data center moratorium order pending zoning definition
The Economic Development Committee tabled an order to study data centers and recommend zoning restrictions, instead agreeing to first define "data center" in the zoning code. Councillor Ari Taylor led the committee, which voted unanimously to table the order pending completion of a definition.
City Council · Meeting of May 12, 2026
MALDEN — The Economic Development Committee tabled an order to study data centers and recommend zoning restrictions, instead agreeing to first define "data center" in the zoning code. Councillor Ari Taylor led the committee, which voted unanimously to table the order pending completion of a definition. City Planner Michelle Romero explained that a data center moratorium requires a zoning amendment with a clear definition and public hearing.
The committee directed the Planning Board Director to draft definition language, with the Office of Strategic Planning and Community Development providing a recommended definition. The committee also discussed the Mayor's economic development package and a Commercial Street zoning expansion proposal, scheduling a follow-up meeting for Monday at 6 p.m.
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Source: the City Council meeting of May 12, 2026, compiled from the official minutes.
Checked against the official minutes.
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