BLAINE, WA (MyBellinghamNow.com) – Blaine has become the first city in Whatcom County to join other nearby areas in slamming the brakes on data centers.

The Blaine City Council voted unanimously on Monday, Oct. 26, to approve a year-long moratorium on data centers and battery energy storage systems.

The move by Blaine follows similar actions in Skagit County and Mount Vernon.

It comes amid concerns over the strain both facilities could have on the local energy and water supply, along with noise and heat that could affect communities and the surrounding environment.

Council member Richard May told My Bellingham Now that the city will still explore the potential use of battery energy systems. He says some residents who spoke at the public hearing advocated for the two types of facilities to be considered separately.

The city hasn’t currently received any applications for data centers, but May says they’re trying to get ahead of the issue, with no current regulations surrounding either type of facility.

The city council also voted unanimously at the meeting to approve an ordinance banning the sale, distribution and manufacturing of all kratom products.

Blaine’s decision follows similar bans in Bellingham and Mount Vernon, with more local municipalities expected to follow suit in Whatcom County.