The future of large artificial intelligence data centers in Salem is facing an important decision as city officials consider how the facilities should be regulated.
The Salem City Council has been reviewing whether existing city zoning regulations allow AI and hyperscale data centers. The issue has drawn considerable public attention because of concerns involving electricity demand, water use, land development and the potential impact on surrounding neighborhoods.
The discussion includes a proposed data center development at the Mill Creek Corporate Center in southeast Salem.
Council deliberations have been moved to November 17. A separate public hearing on proposed regulations covering data centers and battery energy storage facilities is scheduled for November 23.
The decisions could help determine whether Salem becomes a location for additional large-scale technology facilities.
