Commission advances data center prohibition, relocates Earth Day indoors.
Sparta Environmental Commission advances data center prohibition and relocates Earth Day indoors. Commission member Robert Otto presented a draft ordinance prohibiting data centers in all zoning districts, citing concerns that hyperscale facilities could consume up to 300 megawatts of electricity
Environmental Commission · Meeting of April 23, 2026
NJ SPARTA — Sparta Environmental Commission advances data center prohibition and relocates Earth Day indoors. Commission member Robert Otto presented a draft ordinance prohibiting data centers in all zoning districts, citing concerns that hyperscale facilities could consume up to 300 megawatts of electricity and 3 to 5 million gallons of water daily—exceeding Sparta's current usage of 20 megawatts and 2 million gallons. Vice Chair Kristine Rogers announced the April 25 Earth Day celebration will be held indoors at the Municipal Building due to rain forecasts, featuring native plant sales and educational exhibits.
The Trails Committee is pursuing a $20,000 county grant to clear and improve one mile of the Iron Horse Trail.
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Source: the Environmental Commission meeting of April 23, 2026, reported from the official video recording and transcript.
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