SHAWNEE TOWNSHIP, Allen County, Ohio (WLIO) — Local municipalities are putting a pause on potential data center development as officials weigh regulations amid growing interest in large-scale energy and technology projects.
On Monday night, Shawnee Township trustees voted to approve an 18-month moratorium on the development of data centers, battery energy storage systems and solar energy fields. The resolution follows a recommendation from the township’s zoning board.
During the zoning board’s meeting last week, residents expressed concerns about the rapid evolution of these types of developments. They emphasized the need to ensure appropriate regulations are in place as projects are planned and proposed across northwest Ohio.
The trustees unanimously approved the temporary moratorium.
Meanwhile, Findlay City Council is also considering similar action. Officials are weighing a proposed 12-month moratorium on new data center construction and building conversions as of April 2026. The council is expected to discuss the measure at its meeting next week.
