Oklahoma City Council Votes on Data Center Moratorium Extension

The Oklahoma City Council will vote Tuesday on a proposal to extend a moratorium on new data center projects until December 31, 2027. This proposed timeline exceeds a previous six-month extension suggested by Mayor David Holt, as city leaders seek more time to research the community impact of these facilities.

Despite the pause on new developments, the council recently approved rezoning for a hyperscale facility proposed by Beltline Energy, LLC. The project qualified for approval because the request was submitted before the moratorium took effect. The facility is projected to generate $17 million in franchise fees and sales tax for the city.

To address opposition from residents in neighboring Yukon regarding noise and environmental effects, the city imposed specific restrictions on the Beltline Energy project. These include a 75,000-gallon water usage limit and a requirement that a community benefits agreement be finalized before construction begins.