LORDSTOWN — Saying they want to be prepared in case a business seeks a permit that would utilize small mobile reactors or battery energy storage systems, village council on Monday approved a 180-day moratorium on such permits.

Council approved first readings of two motions for the moratorium for any entity that would use small mobile reactors or battery energy storage systems. Mayor Jackie Woodward said the village has no company using such equipment to her knowledge but wants officials to have time to research such reactors and energy storage systems.

“We are planning ahead so we are ready if such a request comes up,” Woodward said.

The second reading on the motions is set June 15.

Planning/Zoning Administrator Kellie Bordner said there also will be a public hearing at 5:30 p.m. June 15 on plans by village council to extend by 180 days a 180-day moratorium approved in January on any permits for data centers. Following the public hearing, council also will act on that moratorium.

Councilman Mark McGrail said the recent consulting agreement with Brian Frantz, director of planning, zoning and economic development for the village of Richfield, near Cleveland, will attend a meeting next week to work with the village on zoning code guidelines related to data centers.

He said the moratorium in place and the planned extension will allow time to do research and preparation.

The first of three meetings is set for 5:30 p.m. June 10 on the scope of what will be involved.

“This will provide us with an idea of the work he will be doing,” McGrail said.

Woodward said she will attend a Lake to River event Thursday to travel to New Albany, near Columbus, to see a data center there.

She said officials will see and ask questions about the data centers in that area of the state.

“We will meet with the elected and zoning officials in New Albany on what they have done to address data centers. We will be able to ask them questions of the pros and cons,” she said.

Also, Councilwoman Jessica Blank said there have been concerns about employees seen smoking in village vehicles.

“This has been brought to council members’ attention,” she said.

Grounds/Street Superintendent Martin Nelder said he is not aware of any employees smoking in the vehicles, but will look into the situation.

Bordner said there are village guidelines in place that prohibit smoking in village buildings and vehicles. Solicitor Matt Ries said state law prohibits this as well.