Planning Board backs ordinance banning data centers
Salem Planning Board backs data center ban with 5-0 vote. The board recommended Ordinance #26-19, which prohibits data centers as a land use in Salem, as consistent with the city's Master Plan. It also voted 4-0-2 to recommend Ordinance #26-20, amending Historic Preservation Commission procedures.
misc · Meeting of September 24, 2026
NJ SALEM — Salem Planning Board backs data center ban with 5-0 vote. The board recommended Ordinance #26-19, which prohibits data centers as a land use in Salem, as consistent with the city's Master Plan. It also voted 4-0-2 to recommend Ordinance #26-20, amending Historic Preservation Commission procedures.
During discussion, HPC Chair Jen Derevlany and member Aileen Hassler VanAtta raised concerns the amendment would restrict the commission's work and potentially jeopardize the city's Certified Local Government status. The Planning Board approved the amendment with three conditions: allowing HPC members on properties to provide information, maintaining a dedicated Code Enforcement Officer for historic preservation, and Planning Board review of Historic Design Guidelines before Council adoption.
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Source: the misc meeting of September 24, 2026, compiled from the official minutes.
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