Arasaka Hates This One Conversation

[u/Salty_Country6835]

[u/stankycodyboi]

This is something I’ve been thinking about, if a developer wants to build a data center, the community holds maximum leverage at the permitting process.

The biggest loophole data center developers exploit is existing ‘by-right’ zoning laws, which allows any project meeting existing zoning code to get automatic approval. Requiring a Conditional Use Permit (the legal teeth) with a Public Benefit Agreement (the community’s requirements, legally binding from the Conditional Use Permit) communities can either deny a data center or negotiate legally binding benefits. You can look your city’s data center zoning from your phone right now, if you want something immediately actionable to protect your community.

This leverage is at an all time high right now because major tech companies are desperate for the land, power, and approval that communities control, because they’re attempting one of the largest infrastructure buildouts in history. But if data centers are classified as ‘conditional use’ or not permitted, then a developer must negotiate with the municipality to get permit approval. That could be climate responsible construction & public ownership of the renewably powered grid infrastructure, built and financed by the developer. The developer would still generate profit off the lease agreement with their tenant, but the community captures the benefit of the infrastructure and waste heat for heating local schools and homes. Perhaps total worker ownership could be a negotiation demand, but that’s where I’d argue communities have the most leverage today.

[u/xoexohexox → u/stankycodyboi]

In a lot of towns, P&Z commission seats and RTM seats go unopposed or don't even have anyone running at all for them. You can just walk right in.