The Municipality of Cumberland is progressing with a temporary halt on data centers that facilitate artificial intelligence technology. A bylaw proposing a six-month pause on development permit requests for data centers was unanimously approved during the council’s initial reading on Tuesday.
During the meeting, Coun. Jennifer Houghtaling expressed concerns from residents regarding the potential impact of water and electricity consumption by data centers on their lives and the environment. Houghtaling emphasized the need for an extended moratorium to ensure an informed decision-making process, highlighting the community’s interconnectedness compared to other regions.
Following the footsteps of Oakville, Ont., which recently implemented a one-year moratorium on new data centers, Cumberland Mayor Rod Gilroy confirmed that their council is pioneering similar actions in Nova Scotia while regulations are being formulated. Gilroy stressed the importance of taking proactive measures, learning, and making well-informed decisions.
The issue was raised in June after concerns were raised by residents about a land acquisition in Malagash by Mississauga-based company 3Sha Infotech Inc. While attempts to reach the company for information about their plans were unsuccessful, Cumberland CAO Greg Herrett stated that the moratorium was a preemptive measure based on community apprehensions, as no inquiries or applications have been received so far.
Local resident Kate Dunn supported the pause on AI data centers, citing potential disruptions to rural life in Cumberland County, such as noise pollution. Dunn expressed concerns about the uncontrolled expansion of AI facilities and emphasized the need for more deliberation on their benefits and implications.
The municipality is set to hold a public hearing in September after which the second reading of the bylaw will be scheduled. The decision to enact a moratorium reflects the community’s proactive stance on the matter. Amid the proliferation of AI data centers across North America, there is growing opposition towards them, with concerns ranging from environmental impacts to job creation.
An Angus Reid poll conducted in June revealed that a majority of respondents oppose the construction of large AI data centers near their residences and advocate for stringent government regulations on AI development. The poll also highlighted concerns about the impact of AI data centers on job creation, with a significant portion viewing them unfavorably.
As debates on data centers continue, the community remains vigilant, emphasizing the need for careful consideration and regulatory frameworks to address the evolving landscape of technology and its implications on society.