The Commission adopted a new definition for data centers as industrial facilities for data storage and processing with associated equipment, and determined they will be permitted only in Rural districts with special use permits and decommissioning requirements. For large-scale mining operations, they reviewed definitions tied to NYS DEC reclamation requirements and limited such uses to Rural districts, but identified open questions about additional municipal-level decommissioning, site restoration, and safety standards beyond state permits. An action item was assigned to staff to clarify what local decommissioning conditions the town can and should impose, indicating a need for environmental, legal, and planning guidance.Consulting firms with experience in data center siting impacts (noise, cooling, power infrastructure) and mine reclamation can support the town in crafting robust local standards and permit conditions that complement DEC oversight.

Commission is focused on preventing loopholes and ensuring noise, pollution, and visual impacts associated with data centers and mining are fully addressed through local standards.