JAY — A proposed data center at the former Androscoggin Mill site would not require local approval under current land use policies and could generate significant tax revenue, the town manager says.

The comments from Town Manager Shiloh LaFrenier follows recent discussion of the project and a related legislative proposal that could impose a statewide moratorium on large data centers, potentially affecting redevelopment plans for the site. Developers have said the project represents a major investment and is part of ongoing efforts to reuse the former paper mill property, which has undergone demolition and environmental cleanup work in recent years.

LaFreniere said the town’s comprehensive plan, which was updated over 18 months and approved by voters in November, does not support additional land use regulations and instead encourages redevelopment of the former mill.

“Town government can only act under the authorities that have been granted by the state and the residents,” she said.

Because the town does not have land-use regulations that would trigger review, the proposed data center does not require local approval, she said, adding that the plan supports “the redevelopment and reuse of the former mill by allowing a wide variety of uses.”

Based on an estimated $550 million valuation cited by the developer, the facility could generate more than $6 million annually in property taxes at the current rate, with additional revenue from equipment.

“These funds would have a significant impact on the increases that residents have had to absorb following the mill shutdown,” LaFreniere said.

The Select Board has supported a letter seeking an exemption from LD 307, a proposal that would temporarily limit certain data center developments statewide while a review process is completed. LaFreniere said the bill remains subject to change.

“We would caution, however, that this seems to be an ever-changing work in progress at the Legislature,” she said.

LaFreniere also addressed concerns about the town’s use of social media, saying the town uses Facebook to share information but does not monitor comments due to limited staffing.

“We would respectfully suggest that FB is not the most effective way to have those conversations,” she said, encouraging residents to attend meetings or contact town staff directly.

LaFreniere said they continue to receive both positive and negative feedback about the data center and encouraged residents to participate in public meetings and local government processes.