Mills County board discusses possible moratorium on data centers
The Mills County Board of Supervisors discussed a potential moratorium on data center development but concluded it was likely unnecessary. This decision was based on current strict zoning regulations, which do not list data centers as a permitted land use, requiring special board approval. The board also noted significant infrastructure challenges in rural areas for such developments.
The Mills County Board of Supervisors in Iowa recently discussed the possibility of enacting a moratorium on data center development within the county. Planning and Zoning Consultant Matt Wyant informed the supervisors that a temporary ban is likely not needed due to the county's existing stringent zoning regulations.
Currently, data centers are not a "listed land use" under Mills County's zoning ordinances, meaning any proposed data center would require developers to petition the Board of Supervisors to add it to the land use ordinance. This process would involve review by the Planning and Zoning Commission to develop specific code language and recommendations before any permits could be issued.
Supervisors Chair Richard Crouch indicated that several residents had contacted him advocating for a temporary moratorium, a topic that has gained traction in other area counties like Ringgold and Union, which have implemented such bans. However, Wyant also highlighted the significant infrastructure hurdles for data centers in rural areas, citing the extensive water and power transmission lines required, which take years to develop. He suggested that any potential development would more likely occur in the northwest corner of the county, possibly seeking annexation into the city of Council Bluffs.
The board concluded that while a symbolic moratorium could be placed, it would need a clear time limit and specific direction, such as developing new regulations, to be justified. Crouch also voiced concerns regarding the adequacy of emergency personnel to respond to incidents at large data center facilities.