Lordstown Approves 180-Day Data Center Moratorium, Creates Study Committee

Overview

• The village council voted unanimously to bar acceptance or processing of new data center applications for up to six months.
• A moratorium committee will be chaired by Councilman Mark McGrail with Councilors Robert Bond and Jamie Moseley to research potential regulations and sustainability standards.
• Mayor Jaclyn Woodward led a public hearing and promoted outreach to communities that already host data centers to gather practical lessons.
• Council rejected a proposed agreement with Verdantas, LLC for a roughly $50,000 site-plan review of a State Route 45/Bristolville project after the developer’s attorney sought approval and an exemption.
• Exceptions in the ordinance cover village emergency data systems, server rooms under 500 square feet, and computer-parts manufacturers, while related developer litigation continues before the Ohio Supreme Court.