Residents voice concerns as Clayton County drafts proposed data center ordinance

The Clayton County Planning and Zoning Commission in Elkader, Iowa, is actively revising a proposed ordinance aimed at regulating data centers and cryptocurrency mining facilities. During a recent workshop, revisions were made to the draft ordinance. Key provisions of the proposed ordinance include a ban on open-loop cooling systems, mandating recirculated contained cooling fluid, and a size limit of 20 acres per data center. Additionally, it sets noise limits and requires applicants to submit water usage estimates, an emergency response plan, and coordinate closed-loop system maintenance with the Iowa Department of Natural Resources and the county. Clayton County residents, including Larry Stone and Jack Knight, have expressed strong opposition and concerns. Stone, a resident for over 50 years, fears data centers would degrade the area's natural scenery, while Knight highlighted issues such as noise, stormwater runoff, and electricity consumption. Both identified as 'NIMBYs' (Not In My Backyard), with Stone also questioning the nature and use of data stored by such facilities, advocating for only U.S.-based companies. The proposed ordinance is still in its early stages, with a public hearing before the county commission scheduled. Following this, the revised ordinance will be forwarded to the Clayton County Board of Supervisors for additional public hearings before it can be enacted.