The Kalamazoo City Commission adopted a one-year moratorium on data centers and similar uses in the city’s zoning ordinance.
The ordinance amendment writes into the zoning code a pause the commission first imposed by resolution in August. While it is in place, the city will not accept or process applications for these uses. Assistant City Planner Bobby Durkee told commissioners the moratorium runs one year from Monday’s meeting, through October 5, 2027, and would end sooner if permanent regulations take effect first.
The Planning Commission recommended the amendment at its September meeting. No one spoke during Monday’s public hearing, and the commission’s motion to adopt passed.
Durkee said staff plans to assemble a working group soon, drawing members from areas such as education, industry, residents and environmental groups. He said he expects draft regulations to be publicly visible early in 2027. Staff will give progress updates at Planning Commission meetings and through city communications, at least every other month. Durkee also said staff is following how neighboring jurisdictions are handling data centers, and that several have adopted their own moratoriums.
Commissioner Slaby said she hopes city staff keeps exploring who joins the working group so it reflects a broad range of perspectives.
