Councilmember Speaks Further On Data Centers in Brick Township

(BRICK, N.J.) — An elected official speaks further on the current status and future of data centers in the Township.

Councilman Gregory Cohen weighed the pros and cons of data centers during the September 8 Township Council meeting, as previously stated in another report. 

Photo Credit: Brick Township Council / Councilman Gregory Cohen

OpGov.News had the opportunity to hear from Cohen about the status of data centers in Brick. 

Cohen explained that the ordinance adopted on September 8 is meant to establish a formal definition of data centers and to prohibit their use in “every zone of Brick Township.” 

Cohen also noted how the ordinance is written, which “does not provide any pathway— conditional, varianced, or otherwise— for a data center to be considered in the future.” This means the proposed ordinance would not allow a data center to be considered later, even if circumstances change or an exception is granted. 

“In practical terms, this functions as a permanent ban,” Cohen said. 

Photo Credit: Getty Images / James Leynse / Data center in Secaucus New Jersey.

Through Cohen’s own personal beliefs, he does not “generally support permanently banning” anything. He explained that over time, technology can change, industries evolve, and communities have the potential to benefit from opportunities “that were not foreseeable years earlier.” 

“We simply do not know yet how future generations of data-center facilities may impact local infrastructure, utilities, or environmental conditions,” Cohen said. 

While Cohen does not feel comfortable with an “indefinite prohibition,” he does recognize why the Land Use Committee of Brick Township brought the ordinance to the council. 

The LUC had concerns about rising electricity demand, groundwater depletion, loud noise affecting surrounding areas, wildfire risks, and the potential for industrial overdevelopment. 

Cohen further explained that without a clear definition of data centers in Brick, developers could attempt to classify a warehouse as a data center. This would be creating a “loophole that exposes the Township to significant risk.” 

Cohen ultimately voted to accept this ordinance; he did note that he does not like “closing the door permanently on a use that may one day be compatible with Brick’s needs.” He explained that he understands why the ordinance was created and is “necessary at this moment.” 

“My commitment remains to protect Brick Today while keeping an open mind about what responsible, well-regulated opportunities may exist in the future,” Cohen said.

To add to or correct any information in this report or to share tips or a story, please contact me at alexis.n@lead4earth.org.