The Municipality of Cumberland is progressing with a temporary ban on data centers that focus on artificial intelligence. A bylaw proposing a six-month halt on development permit applications for such data centers received unanimous approval during the council’s initial reading on Tuesday.
During the meeting, Coun. Jennifer Houghtaling expressed concerns from residents regarding the potential impact of data centers on water and electricity consumption, both on their lives and the environment. Houghtaling emphasized the need for an informed decision, suggesting that the moratorium should remain in effect until the necessary assessments are completed.
Cumberland Mayor Rod Gilroy highlighted the proactive approach taken by the council, stating that being passive was never an option. He stressed the importance of gathering information to make well-informed decisions before drafting regulations.
The issue arose in June following apprehensions raised by residents about a land acquisition in Malagash by Mississauga-based company 3Sha Infotech Inc. Despite attempts to reach the company for information on its plans for the property, no response was received. Cumberland CAO Greg Herrett stated that the moratorium was a preemptive measure based on community concerns, as there have been no applications or inquiries received by the staff.
Local resident Kate Dunn supported the decision to pause AI data center development, citing noise pollution and the mismatch with rural life in Cumberland County as key concerns. She urged for a thorough evaluation of the benefits and drawbacks of AI expansion before proceeding further.
An Angus Reid poll in June revealed that 68% of respondents opposed the construction of large AI data centers in close proximity to residential areas. The majority also favored stringent government regulations on AI, even if it slowed down development, indicating skepticism about the job creation potential of AI data centers.
As the debate around AI data centers intensifies across North America, opposition towards their proliferation increases. Protests and legal battles have erupted in Canada, contrasting with Alberta’s positive reception of projects like Meta’s data center initiative announced in July.
The council plans to hold a public hearing in September after which the second reading of the bylaw will be scheduled. The aim is to carefully deliberate on the implications of AI data centers and ensure the protection of the community and the province’s resources.
