Hawaii County Councilwoman Proposes Ban on AI Data Centers
Councilwoman Heather Kimball introduced Bill 170 to prohibit AI data centers in Hawaii County, though the Windward Planning Commission issued an unfavorable recommendation over definition concerns.
Hamakua Councilwoman Heather Kimball introduced Bill 170 to prohibit artificial intelligence data centers in Hawaii County. The legislation seeks to establish a specific legal definition for AI data centers to distinguish them from existing data processing facilities, thereby closing loopholes that might allow resource-intensive infrastructure on the island.
During a Thursday meeting, the Windward Planning Commission voted 5-1 to send an unfavorable recommendation of the bill to the County Council. While commissioners supported the intent of the ban, they argued that the current definition, sourced from the National Association of Counties, lacks the specificity required to prevent unintended consequences. Vice Chair Chantel Perrin cast the sole vote in favor of the bill.
Deputy County Corporation Counsel Jean Campbell noted that some proposed permitting regulations are beyond the scope of Bill 170 and would require separate legislation. The Leeward Planning Commission is scheduled to evaluate the bill on October 15 before it moves to a final vote by the County Council.
