"In an effort to shield residents and natural resources from the negative impacts of hyperscale data center development in rural Linn County, officials have adopted what may be one of the most comprehensive local data center zoning ordinances in the nation. The new ordinance requires data center developers to conduct a comprehensive water study as part of their zoning application and to enter into a water-use agreement with the county before construction."
"We are trying to put together the most protective, transparent ordinance possible. But seated beneath a van-sized American flag hanging from the rafters of the drafty Palo Community Center gymnasium, residents asked for even stronger protections."
Palo, Iowa, a small rural town in Linn County, faces concerns about hyperscale data center development threatening its water resources and community. Following devastating 2008 flooding from the Cedar River, residents worry that data centers will consume excessive water. County officials implemented comprehensive zoning ordinances among the strictest in the nation, requiring developers to conduct water studies, establish water-use agreements, maintain 1,000-foot setbacks from residential areas, limit noise and light pollution, and contribute to community betterment funds. Despite these protections, residents gathered at a public hearing demanded even stronger safeguards for their town and natural environment.
#data-center-regulation #water-resource-protection #rural-development #environmental-zoning #community-advocacy
Read at Ars Technica
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