The Oakley City Council has extended its moratorium on data centers for nearly one year, until April 14, 2027. This decision follows controversy over the Bridgehead Industrial Project and concerns about energy consumption.
- The moratorium was extended by 10 months and 15 days via an emergency ordinance requiring a 4/5 vote. - The Bridgehead project, originally including data centers, was approved with data centers prohibited.
- Councilmembers cited high energy use, with 25% of Virginia's energy going to data centers and a 22% electric bill increase in New Jersey. - A joint workshop with the planning commission will develop a permanent ordinance by year-end.
The extension aims to allow staff time to create standards for data center development in Oakley.