Most data centers paused, business impact emerging

Minneapolis has imposed a five-month moratorium on most data center projects to address concerns about water consumption, electricity use, noise pollution, and land use impacts. The decision, supported by some council members as a victory for residents and green spaces, faces pushback from the business community, which warns it could deter investments and harm downtown revitalization efforts. An exception allows limited downtown projects, but critics argue the pause risks economic development and may drive businesses away.