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EXPLORESmart Cities Dive · 1d ago

As data center backlash grows, a model law aims to give cities more control

Executive Brief

The 30-second read

Climate Mayors has introduced a model local law to help municipalities manage the rapid expansion of data centers. This framework provides executive guidance on siting, permitting, and community benefit agreements to mitigate local backlash.

  • 01New legislative framework addresses data center growth exceeding current local zoning and code capacities
  • 02Model law establishes standardized protocols for site selection and permitting processes
  • 03Enhanced transparency requirements aim to improve corporate relations with local government stakeholders
  • 04Framework includes structured guidelines for negotiating community benefits and environmental impacts

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AI-generated summary · Verify at source

Data centers “are moving faster and at a larger scale than most local codes were built to handle,” Climate Mayors’ executive director said. Its model local law offers a framework for siting, permitting, transparency and community benefits.