The focal point of the meeting was the proposed amendments to the zoning bylaw concerning data centers, initiated in response to a previously enacted moratorium. The board presented detailed regulations, proposing to include micro and small data centers in the use table. Micro data centers would be capped at 150 square feet, while small data centers could reach up to 5,000 square feet. Key regulations in section 8.13 of the bylaw would prohibit water extraction for cooling, ban gas or diesel backup systems, and forbid the use of lithium-ion or nickel magnesium batteries for energy storage. Additional requirements addressed lighting, signage, noise, visual impacts, and driveway access, with a minimum lot size set at 90,000 square feet and setbacks of 75 feet.

Public feedback was a vital component of the meeting. A community member, Sanford, raised questions about the regulations, asking whether waivers could be obtained for larger operations or cooling systems that reduce water consumption. It was clarified that waivers could be granted if they did not contradict the bylaw’s public purpose. The board also discussed the potential integration of solar energy with data centers, noting the existing solar bylaw would govern such installations.

Noise and environmental impacts of data centers were concerns. Mayor Fox highlighted noise pollution issues, particularly in concentrated areas like Lake Wyola, and emphasized the importance of minimal noise during construction and operation. The board acknowledged the lack of specific noise mitigation provisions in the bylaws, leading to suggestions for research into sound levels produced by data centers and potential noise mitigation measures.

The legality of prohibiting data centers outright was another topic of interest. Discussions revealed that no state law protections exist for data centers, unlike solar or educational facilities. Some board members advocated for a data center-free designation for Shutesbury, arguing against the potential detriments outweighing financial gains. A proposal for a hydrology report as part of project submissions was also considered.

The board explored procedural aspects of the bylaw process, including the potential for citizen petitions to propose outright bans on data centers. The implications of having competing warrant articles at a town meeting were discussed, with members emphasizing the need for careful drafting to ensure clarity and legal compliance. Concerns about the planning board’s authority to impose conditions on data center proposals were noted, stressing thorough scrutiny of any proposals.

A significant portion of the meeting focused on noise regulation. Members debated whether to mandate noise assessments for applicants, reflecting differing opinions on the necessity of public notification for site plan reviews, especially for smaller data centers. The board considered the potential legal implications of requiring notification without public comment.

In addition to data center regulations, the board briefly touched on clean energy regulations, with a focus on solar and wind projects. The upcoming regulations for projects under 25 megawatts and battery projects under 100 megawatts were discussed, with concerns about potential contradictions between existing bylaws and new state guidelines.