AMAZON WORKERS BACK SEATTLE DATA CENTER MORATORIUM

The proposed pause comes two months after five large-scale data center projects were announced for the city. Amazon staff joined protesters citing concerns about water consumption and local electricity price hikes. Data center construction has faced resistance nationwide over environmental and infrastructure impacts. The facilities require substantial power and water resources, raising questions about sustainability in urban areas. Amazon, Seattle's largest tech employer, has significant operations in the region. The company's own workers breaking ranks to support restrictions on industry expansion signals internal tension over growth and environmental priorities. If approved, the moratorium would block new data center permits for 12 months, giving the city time to develop long-term policies. The council vote will determine whether Seattle implements the temporary freeze or allows projects to proceed under existing regulations.