Many local communities are considering or putting in place moratoriums on data centers, as it becomes a campaign issue ahead of Election Day in November.

Mason City Council is set to vote Monday on Ordinance 266, a proposal that would create a new zoning district with rules specifically written for potential future data center development. City leaders say no projects are currently planned, but the ordinance would establish standards and restrictions before any large-scale technology facilities are considered.

The Lansing City Council is considering whether to approve a proposal from UK-based company Deep Green to build a data center downtown in collaboration with the Lansing Board of Water and Light.

Two members of Deep Green called in from their homes in the United Kingdom to speak directly to Lansing residents about the downtown data center proposal.

A Lansing city councilmember proposed using a portion of potential data center revenue to fund housing services. The city could learn from one Virginia county where that’s already a reality.

Lansing residents will have an opportunity to weigh in on a proposed data center during several upcoming meetings.

The proposed ordinance would dedicate 10% of revenue the Lansing Board of Water and Light receives from data center utility use to fund housing support services.

Mason City Council voted to move forward with zoning changes and a temporary moratorium aimed at regulating potential data center development after hours of public comment.

These centers have been proposed around rural parts of Mid-Michigan and beyond.

City planners move to recommend controversial zoning plan after hearing objections from nearly 50 residents.