Ascension Planning defers data center ordinance to September Zoning Commission meeting
Ascension Parish's Planning Commission deferred a proposed 12-page ordinance to regulate data centers to its September Zoning Commission meeting. The ordinance aims to establish rules like setbacks and noise limits, as the parish currently lacks specific regulations. A moratorium on data center development until regulations are in place was also proposed.
Ascension Parish's Planning Commission deferred a proposed 12-page ordinance, intended to regulate "high impact development facilities" (a euphemism for data centers), to its September Zoning Commission meeting. Commission Chairman Nick Miller announced the deferral, noting that the Zoning Commission, which shares the same membership, will take up the issue.
According to Council Chairman Chase Melancon, the staff and Planning Commission have been developing this ordinance for some time due to concerns that an entity might apply for a data center permit before regulations are established. During an August 6 council meeting in Donaldsonville, Melancon explained that the parish currently lacks rules regarding setbacks, noise, and other critical aspects for data centers.
Councilmen Blaine Petite, Oliver Joseph, and Councilwoman Jenn DeFrances have supported the swift creation and recommendation of an ordinance to guide the placement and development of these facilities. Additionally, Councilman Joel Robert proposed implementing a moratorium on data center development until the necessary regulations are finalized.