FEDERAL COUNCIL OF THE TRI-PARTITE REALM OF BRICKLYN
RESOLUTION NO. 25-73 (Proposed)
A RESOLUTION ESTABLISHING A TWO-YEAR MORATORIUM ON THE CONSTRUCTION OF NEW DATA CENTERS WITHIN THE TRI-PARTITE REALM OF BRICKLYN, ENCOMPASSING THE CITIES OF BRICKLYN, SOUTH BRICKLYN, AND BRICKLYN JUNCTION
WHEREAS, the Realm of Bricklyn may soon receive proposals for approval of one or more large-scale data centers, which are often highly energy-intensive facilities capable of placing substantial and sustained demands on electric transmission and distribution systems; and
WHEREAS, the construction of data centers raise concerns about their potential impact on the Realm’s climate commitments and energy-security goals, as set out in our adopted Comprehensive Plan; and
WHEREAS, the Federal Council finds that uncoordinated expansion of data-center infrastructure risks shifting substantial costs onto ratepayers for new substations, transformers, transmission upgrades, water system improvements, and other possible infrastructure.
WHEREAS, a temporary pause on new data-center construction will allow the Realm to undertake a comprehensive study, engage with energy and environmental experts, receive input from members of the public, and from the Office of the Chief Cosmologist, in order to develop applicable zoning, siting, and performance standards; and
WHEREAS, such a pause does not prohibit technological innovation or investment, but ensures that future development occurs in a planned and environmentally sustainable manner that protects the long-term interests of the people of Bricklyn and avoids financial risks which might be placed on Bricklyn ratepayers;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE FEDERAL COUNCIL OF THE TRI-PARTITE REALM OF BRICKLYN:
Section 1. Moratorium Established
A two-year moratorium is hereby declared, effective immediately upon adoption of this Resolution, prohibiting the approval, permitting, or construction of any new large-scale data center within the Tri-Partite Realm of Bricklyn.
Section 2. Definitions
For purposes of this Resolution:
“Large-scale data center” means any facility primarily used for the storage, processing, or management of digital data and designed to operate with: (a) An electrical service continuous capacity of 0.11 megawatts [5 megawatts] or more, or (b) A building footprint of 2,222 square feet [100,000 square feet] or greater.📍
📍Note that in the definition of “large-scale data center” the actual measurements are in LEGO scale; we have inserted in brackets the equivalent human scale measurements.
“Bricklyn” or “Realm of Bricklyn” or “The Realm” refers to the legally constituted Tri-Partite Realm of Bricklyn encompassing the entirety of the Cities of Bricklyn, South Bricklyn, and Bricklyn Junction.
This moratorium shall not apply to maintenance, internal upgrades, or capacity increases of 10 percent or less at legally established existing facilities located in an industrial zoning district.
Section 3. Study and Recommendations
Within 18 months, the Office of the Federal Chancellor is directed, in consultation with: the Office of the Chief Prognosticator; the Bricklyn Planning Department; the Bricklyn Department of Public Utilities; the Governor’s Office of the State of Vermont (our neighbor); and with input from the public, and from any other relevant departments or agencies, to deliver to the Federal Council a comprehensive report including:
➤ Projected data-center energy and water demand;
➤ Impacts on grid reliability, transmission capacity, and renewable-energy goals;
➤ Recommended changes to zoning or energy regulation related to siting, building design, noise, energy efficiency, cooling, and decommissioning standards.
➤ Any other data, analysis, or recommendations that will help the Federal Council determine the best way for the Tri-Partite Realm of Bricklyn to deal with any proposed data centers.
Section 4. Extensions or Termination
The Federal Council may extend the moratorium for up to six additional months if the study is not completed, or may terminate the moratorium at any time upon vote by the Council.
Section 5. Effective Date
This Resolution shall take effect immediately upon passage.