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Springfield Township, Michigan, has implemented a 180-day moratorium on data center proposals, prohibiting their review or approval. The Township Board of Trustees aims to amend its zoning ordinance and hold hearings with property owners on data center regulations.

This decision follows a consultant's warning that the township is 'unprepared' for the impact of data centers. Officials plan to assess locations, construction standards, and emergency preparedness related to data centers.

The moratorium was enacted shortly before discussions with a developer interested in an 84-acre site for a proposed project. The township currently lacks specific zoning standards for data centers, treating them like standard office uses, which does not adequately address their unique characteristics. Any future development must align with the township's values on safety and sustainability.