More Cities Move To Ban Data Centers After Midterm Backlash
Summary
Local governments across the United States are weighing new limits on data centers amid concerns about their effects on electricity, water, infrastructure and nearby communities. After the November 3 midterms, Edmond extended a development pause, while Memphis and Marshalltown continued work on local rules.Key Facts
- Ballotpedia reported at least 50 local data-center ballot measures across 13 states in 2026, with 41 scheduled for the general election.
- By November 4, voters had decided 47 measures; 46 supported tighter controls, either by adopting restrictions or rejecting proposals that would have encouraged development.
- Edmond’s City Council voted 5-0 on November 9 to extend its data-center moratorium through June 30, 2027.
- Edmond’s moratorium blocks applications to rezone land or obtain building permits for data centers in the city.
- Memphis passed a 135-day pause on data centers by a 7-5 vote on October 20, after an 18-month proposal failed in a 6-6 tie.
- Memphis held a discussion about data-center legislation on November 9, but the council did not vote on zoning changes or other measures.
- Marshalltown adopted a four-month moratorium in August while officials developed local rules, and its council continued discussing zoning proposals on November 9.
- The article identifies potential data-center concerns including electricity and water use, noise, emissions, wastewater, traffic and demands on public infrastructure.
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