Manitowoc County proposes data center restrictions
Manitowoc County has drafted an ordinance regulating future data centers during an 18-month moratorium that ends in October 2027. The proposed rules would limit site acreage, protect farmland and water, require closed-loop cooling, and impose noise and air-quality monitoring requirements, while some residents are calling for a permanent ban.
Manitowoc County released a draft ordinance establishing requirements for any future data centers, although no developers have approached the county. The proposal would limit projects to 500 acres, restrict agricultural land conversion to 100 acres, require closed-loop cooling systems, and mandate noise monitoring and air-quality plans.
County Executive Tyler Martell said the rules are intended to preserve farmland while providing consistent standards for potential development. Manitowoc County Farm Bureau President Brent Sinkula emphasized groundwater protection and raised concerns about possible effects of water leaks, air pollution and noise on farms and livestock. Some residents have urged a permanent ban, but Martell said the county must regulate rather than prohibit a type of business. The draft will undergo review by the Planning and Zoning Commission before public hearings and a recommendation to the County Board.