Peosta taking early steps on data center ordinance

Peosta city leaders are taking initial steps to develop a data center ordinance following an informal inquiry from a developer. Although the ordinance was not on the immediate agenda, it is a priority for the city council, which seeks to establish its own guidelines as an independent municipality within Dubuque County.

The city council held its first discussion on the potential ordinance last week, concluding that more research was needed. City staff have been tasked with gathering information on existing ordinances and related issues to prepare for any formal development requests.

This proactive measure comes in the wake of Dubuque County's recent approval of a 12-month moratorium on data centers within its jurisdiction. The county's moratorium was enacted on May 26 after extensive discussions involving the board and local residents. Peosta council members plan to continue discussions on the issue over the coming months to ensure the city is well-prepared for future data center proposals.