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LIVINGSTON, NJ – Residents of Howell Township have come together to voice their concerns over a proposed AI data center, igniting a heated debate about its potential impact on the community. At a recent town hall meeting, locals raised alarm bells regarding the project’s implications for utility costs, extensive water usage, and environmental sustainability.
In response to growing apprehension, the Howell Township Board has enacted a six-month moratorium on the data center project, granting the community a reprieve while local authorities deliberate on necessary regulatory measures. This pause aims to provide adequate time for residents to assess the ramifications of the proposed development.
During the meeting, passionate residents outlined their worries, citing risks not only to their immediate environment but also to the overall quality of life in the township. Concerns focused heavily on how the data center could strain local resources, resulting in increased utility bills and potential adverse effects on water supply.
Interestingly, the developers of the AI data center have expressed their support for the moratorium, showing a willingness to engage with the community. They have agreed to discuss conditions addressing noise levels, light pollution, and water usage to alleviate residents’ fears.
The township board is set to revisit the rezoning request on December 8, providing a critical juncture for both the developers and the residents seeking to find common ground. As the discussions unfold, Howell Township residents remain hopeful that their concerns will be addressed effectively.
For more coverage and video from the town hall meeting, visit the official YouTube channel of WDIV Local 4 News.
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