The Municipality of Cumberland has decided to implement a moratorium on data centers that are dedicated to supporting artificial intelligence. The council unanimously passed the first reading of a bylaw that could initiate a six-month halt on development permit applications for such data centers.
During the council meeting, Coun. Jennifer Houghtaling highlighted concerns raised by residents regarding the potential impact of data centers on water and electricity consumption, both on their lives and the environment. Houghtaling emphasized the need for an informed decision-making process, stating that the moratorium should remain in effect until all necessary information is gathered. Drawing a comparison between Nova Scotia and Alberta, Houghtaling expressed the interconnectedness of the community in Nova Scotia.
Cumberland Mayor Rod Gilroy expressed proactive measures by the council to address the situation, indicating that being passive was never an option. He emphasized the importance of making well-informed decisions after considering all aspects of the issue before drafting regulations.
The issue was initially brought to the council’s attention in June following concerns raised by residents over a land purchase in Malagash. A Mississauga-based company, 3Sha Infotech Inc., owns farmland in Upper Malagash, but attempts to reach the company for information on its plans were unsuccessful.
Cumberland CAO Greg Herrett stated that the decision to implement a moratorium was driven by proactive measures and community concerns, as there have been no inquiries or applications received by the staff at this point. Herrett emphasized that staff would not entertain any applications for data centers post the first reading, with the next steps including scheduling a second reading after a public hearing expected in September.
Local resident Kate Dunn supported the decision to halt AI data centers, citing concerns about the impact on rural life in Cumberland County, such as noise pollution. Dunn expressed the need for more time to evaluate the value of AI data centers and their impact on the community.
There have been growing opposition and concerns surrounding AI data centers in Canada, with large protests and legal battles taking place. A recent poll revealed that a significant portion of respondents opposed the construction of large AI data centers near their residences and advocated for strict government regulations on AI development to ensure environmental and societal protection.