Dubuque eyes data center rules amid county moratorium
Dubuque, Iowa, is exploring new data center rules after the county enacted a one-year moratorium on such projects. The city has been contacted regarding a potential data center development that would require both county zoning changes and city council approval for utility connections. City staff plan to develop a data center ordinance.
Dubuque, Iowa, is taking steps to establish its own regulations for data centers, prompted by a recent inquiry about a potential project within the city's jurisdiction. City Manager Mike Van Milligen confirmed that the city has been approached regarding a data center development, which would necessitate a county zoning change as well as approval from the city council for water and sewer system connections.
This development comes on the heels of the Dubuque County supervisors implementing a one-year moratorium on new data center constructions. The proposed project's property is not currently contiguous with city limits, meaning an annexation application would also be a prerequisite, though one has not yet been submitted.
In response to the growing interest and the county's action, Van Milligen announced plans to collaborate with city staff to draft a specific data center ordinance. This proactive approach aims to establish clear guidelines for future developments within the city.