Dixfield OKs 180-day moratorium on data centers

SUN JOURNAL • September 15, 2026

After some debate and a lot of questions, citizens voted decisively by ballot vote Sept. 14 to enact a 180-day moratorium on any data center considering coming to Dixfield. The Select Board recommended the 180 days, which takes effect immediately, “to gather information regarding the potential effect of data centers on the local energy grid and environment and to develop and implement ordinances and regulations necessary to address these development pressures and protect the public health and safety and welfare of the town’s residents.”